"How Might We" Statement Starters

A Core Method to Turn Problems into Possibilities

How Might We: Focus on finding possibilities

“How Might We” (HMW) is a framing technique used by designers to turn problems or insights into open-ended questions that:

• encourage exploration

• invite collaboration

• help us see new perspectives

Often used as a collaborative activity, but it is just as powerful as a mindset or behavioural shift, to use words to help us open up more possibilities.

Why this matters

Many of us get stuck in binary thinking, where we see two extremes. We rarely pause to explore the possibilities in between.

“If we don’t punish him, he’s not going to learn.”
This way of thinking shuts down communication. It often leaves children, partners, or even ourselves feeling judged, blamed, or not good enough. By reframing challenges with HMW questions, we:

• Shift from judgement or blame to curiosity

• See more possibilities beyond either/or options

• Create a safe space where everyone contributes

• Put ourselves in an active role towards solutions

This reduces resistance and builds ownership and encourages creativity.

Examples at home:

• “You have been late for school twice this week. How might we make the mornings go more smoothly so you can get to school on time?”

• “I notice we all have been spending quite a bit of time on our screens on weekday evenings. How might we spend more time doing things together instead?”

Notice how this moves the conversation into problem solving mode. And the ‘we’ in instantly puts us on the same team. No blame, no shame. But more of an invitation to explore possibilities together.

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