Mental set is a way of thinking that can really change how we solve problems. It happens when we stick to what we already know instead of looking for new ideas.
For example, let’s say you have always fixed a leaky faucet by using a wrench. If you keep using that same method, you might miss out on a better way to fix it.
One specific way mental set shows up is called functional fixedness. This is when we only think about objects in the way we usually use them.
Imagine you have a bowl and a spoon, but you need to weigh something small. Instead of thinking outside the box, you might not even consider using the bowl as a makeshift scale. This focus on how things are typically used can stop us from thinking of new solutions.
Here are some tips to help you overcome mental set:
By recognizing and challenging our mental set, we can become better at solving problems and come up with creative ideas.
Mental set is a way of thinking that can really change how we solve problems. It happens when we stick to what we already know instead of looking for new ideas.
For example, let’s say you have always fixed a leaky faucet by using a wrench. If you keep using that same method, you might miss out on a better way to fix it.
One specific way mental set shows up is called functional fixedness. This is when we only think about objects in the way we usually use them.
Imagine you have a bowl and a spoon, but you need to weigh something small. Instead of thinking outside the box, you might not even consider using the bowl as a makeshift scale. This focus on how things are typically used can stop us from thinking of new solutions.
Here are some tips to help you overcome mental set:
By recognizing and challenging our mental set, we can become better at solving problems and come up with creative ideas.