THE BURBLE DIG DOWN

Presenting Issue Versus Underlying Cause

Objective: To identify the presenting problem and delve into its underlying causes for deeper understanding and effective resolution.

Materials Needed:

Pen and paper or a digital note-taking device

Quiet and comfortable space

Instructions:

1. Identify the Presenting Problem:

   1. Take a moment to think about a challenge or issue you're currently facing. Write down a brief description of this problem.

   2. Example: "Feeling constantly exhausted and unmotivated."

2. Explore the Presenting Problem:

   1. Write down the various aspects of the problem you're facing. Break it down into its different components or symptoms.

   2. Example:

      1. Lack of energy

      2. Lack of interest in usual activities

      3. Difficulty concentrating

      4. Feeling irritable or moody

3. Reflect on Recent Triggers:

   1. Think about recent events or situations that may have triggered this problem. Write down any that come to mind.

   2. Example:

      1. Increased workload at work

      2. Recent breakup

      3. Lack of social interaction due to pandemic restrictions

4. Ask "Why?" Five Times:

   1. Take your identified problem and ask yourself "Why is this happening?" Write down the answer.

   2. Then, take that answer and ask "Why is that happening?" Write down the next answer.

   3. Repeat this process at least five times, digging deeper into the underlying causes.

   4. Example:

      1. Problem: Feeling constantly exhausted and unmotivated.

      2. Why? Because I'm not sleeping well.

      3. Why? Because I'm constantly worrying about work.

      4. Why? Because I feel overwhelmed by my workload.

      5. Why? Because I have difficulty saying no to additional tasks.

      6. Why? Because I fear disappointing my colleagues or losing my job.

5. Ask "WHAT?" Five Times:

   1. NOW, take your identified problem and ask yourself "WHAT is this happening?" Write down the answer.

   2. Then, take that answer and ask "WHAT is causing that happening?" Write down the next answer.

   3. You will note that the use of WHAT versus WHY can lead to even more insight into the issue and even produce a slightly different response!

   4. Repeat this process at least five times, digging deeper into the underlying causes.

   5. Example:

6. Identify the Root Cause:

   1. Look at the last "Why?" or “What?” response you wrote down. This is likely the root cause of your presenting problem.

   2. Reflect on how this root cause connects to the initial problem you identified.

   3. Write down any insights or realizations you have about this connection.

   4. Example: Realizing that fear of disappointing others and fear of job loss are contributing to work-related stress, leading to poor sleep and lack of motivation.

Now that you have identified a few of the underlying issues versus the presenting problem, feel free to launch burble and look for the burble treatment that aligns with your needs! Please note, that many presenting issues can have several underlying issues. We suggest starting with one and then moving forward with the others in subsequent sessions.

Continue the exercise

Brainstorm Solutions:

• Now that you've identified the root cause, brainstorm possible solutions or strategies to address it.

• Focus on actionable steps you can take to alleviate the presenting problem by tackling its underlying cause.

• Example:

  • Practice setting boundaries at work and learn to say no when necessary.

  • Prioritize tasks and break them down into manageable chunks.

  • Seek support from colleagues or supervisors when feeling overwhelmed.

  • Practice relaxation techniques to improve sleep quality.

1. Create an Action Plan:

   • Choose one or two solutions from your brainstorming session and create an action plan.

   • Set specific, achievable goals related to these solutions.

   • Establish a timeline for when you will start and how you will track your progress.

   • Example:

     • Action 1: Practice setting boundaries at work.

       • Goal: Say no to at least one additional task per week.

       • Timeline: Start next Monday and track progress in a journal.

     • Action 2: Prioritize tasks and break them down.

       • Goal: Break down major projects into smaller tasks and create a weekly schedule.

       • Timeline: Start this weekend and review progress weekly.

2. Commit to Action:

   • Commit to implementing your action plan.

   • Stay accountable by regularly reviewing your progress and adjusting your approach as needed.

   • Example: Commit to following through with saying no to additional tasks and prioritizing workload as planned.

3. Reflect and Adjust:

   • Reflect on your progress regularly.

   • Celebrate achievements and learn from setbacks.

   • Adjust your approach as necessary based on what's working and what's not.

   • Example: After a week, evaluate progress in setting boundaries at work. If facing difficulties, adjust strategies or seek additional support.