Are you turning and returning all the options in your head for days, to no avail? You are distracted, stressed, and perhaps even unhappy with the situation. You wonder if there’s an easy way out. What if the solution was to view the problem differently?

To solve a problem effectively, it’s crucial to put things into perspective. To do this, answer the following three questions:

1. How would you describe your current energy level? Low or high?
2. Is the problem a major issue for you?
3. If you do nothing, what is the likelihood that the problem will go away on its own?

For any problem, there are only three possible options. Based on the answers you provided to the above questions, one option may even impose itself.

Option 1: Regain your peace of mind instantly

If your problem is temporary and your energy level is high, the best option might simply be to accept the status quo and stop worrying about the situation.

Suppose you have too much work right now. Your task list seems endless. You hate the stress it creates in you. However, if you know you have the capacity to do the work, you can choose to go all out. For three weeks, you’ll work overtime, and then, things will return to normal. Just focus on the end result and push back your need to rebel. Anyway, your problem will soon be a thing of the past.

If, on the other hand, there is no foreseeable end date to your problem (and your energy level is good), it might then be appropriate to take a step back. Are the stakes considerable for you? Is it a battle worth fighting? Does it hold great importance for you? If you answer no to these questions, then consider accepting the situation for what it is. Instead, give yourself time to relax and renew your energy, and do what you have to do. Don’t exhaust your strength fighting for something that is not essential to your happiness and success. You have more important projects to accomplish.

Option 2: Make a Move When the Situation Matters to You

Sometimes a problem can have huge consequences, especially when the stakes are important to you. Then, it’s essential to find a solution.

In such circumstances, if your energy level is sufficiently high, your best option is to fight. Fight for what is crucial to you. Take a step back and examine your resources. Develop a strategy. Look for allies or mentors. And execute your plan diligently.

Let’s take the example of work overload again. Files are piling up on your desk, and you see no end. You are worried because you fear not meeting your commitments, which is not an option to consider.

What should you do then? Try to delay the target date. Delegate or ask for help. Or eliminate from your task list those that are not absolutely priorities. You might also negotiate the possibility of submitting the work in stages. Consider all strategies, choose the most promising, and go for it. Move forward. Fight. Make things happen. The motivation behind all these actions is simple: solving this problem is essential to your happiness and success.

Option 3: Invest in Yourself to Win

If you read options 1 and 2 and feel discouraged or even panicked, you might need to give yourself permission… to give up.

Options 1 and 2 require a certain level of energy. If you’re already exhausted, it may be impossible for you to expend the additional effort required to manage the status quo or to fight. It might be better to give up before reaching your ultimate limit.

However, before making a decision, ensure you sincerely evaluate the effect this problem will have on your life goals. If the stakes are low for you, then give yourself permission to let go. Move on. Don’t exhaust what energy you have left fighting trivial problems. On the other hand, if the stakes are high, you must realize that it could be very difficult to overcome your difficulties without first recharging your energy.

Take a step back again and explore your choices. What must you stop doing today that is draining your energy? What can you do to recharge your batteries?

When you feel ready to tackle the situation again, reassess it and decide between options 1 and 2. Let your priorities — not emerging problems — guide you. Look at the forest, not just the trees. This entirely new vision might reveal possibilities you hadn’t considered before. The direction you need to choose will then become apparent.

Start by taking a deep breath and relaxing. Answer the three simple questions from the beginning and choose the best option for you. You might be surprised by the joy and success this brings you. It’s a simple but powerful process.