eight reasons to focus on problem-solving, not your problems
Okay, I need to be honest here: I have a love/hate relationship with many of the tropes and concepts in the business world about how to approach complex business problems. I love to hate them (well, maybe not hate; maybe purposefully dislike is a better way to describe it).
Before I get into my fantastical listicle about problem-solving, let me dive into this a little more.
Much of the language used in the business content world around this tries to form problems (supposedly negative) as challenges or obstacles. They are not the same: one you solve, one you overcome, and one you avoid. Yeah, we (the pejorative we) need to stop doing that.
What I find more troublesome is the framing of how to go about dealing with organizational problems. We are told to think asymmetrically or out of the box, but who is talking about symmetry or what the box is in the first place?
Most thought leadership in this area reduces very real organizational problems into platitudes. It is reductive at best and misleading at worst.
Organizational problems exist; they are real. They can be negative, such as declining profits, or positive, such as lack of focus during a hyper-growth period. Regardless of what they are...
We all have 99 problems, but solving them should not be one.
Now on to the listicle:
#1 - it is more productive
When we focus on the problem, we tend to get stuck in a negative mindset. We may start to feel overwhelmed or hopeless. This can make it challenging to find a solution. When we focus on the solution, we are more likely to be creative and resourceful. We are also more likely to stay motivated and persistent.
#2 - helps us to learn and grow
When we solve problems, we learn new things and develop new skills. This can help us to become more resilient and adaptable. It can also improve our problem-solving skills, which can be helpful in other areas of our lives.
#3 - makes us feel better
When we solve a problem, we experience a sense of accomplishment. This can boost our self-confidence and motivation. It can also help us to feel more in control of our lives.
#4 - helps us prevent future problems
When we learn from our mistakes, we can avoid making them again. This can help us create a more positive and productive life.
#5 - it fosters a positive workplace culture
Focusing on solutions rather than problems contributes to a positive workplace culture. When teams collectively emphasize finding solutions, it creates an environment where individuals feel empowered and encouraged. This collaborative atmosphere promotes open communication, innovation, and a shared responsibility for overcoming challenges.
#6 - it enhances team Collaboration
Problem-solving often involves teamwork. When focused on solutions, team members are more likely to collaborate effectively. The emphasis shifts from blame or dwelling on the problem to working together to find constructive solutions. This collaborative approach strengthens team bonds and improves overall team dynamics.
#7 - encourages innovation and creativity
Solving problems requires thinking outside the box and exploring unconventional solutions. Individuals and teams are encouraged to tap into their creativity and innovate by shifting the focus to solutions. This approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and encourages the exploration of new ideas, leading to breakthroughs and advancements.
#8 - aligns with a proactive mindset
Focusing on solutions aligns with a proactive mindset. Instead of reacting to problems as they arise, a solution-oriented approach involves anticipating challenges and actively seeking ways to address them in advance. This proactive mindset mitigates potential issues and positions individuals and organizations to stay ahead of the curve.
The choice to emphasize solutions is a commitment to a holistic approach to problem-solving. It transcends the immediate task and becomes a philosophy that shapes how individuals and organizations tackle adversity. So, as we navigate the complexities of our professional and personal lives, let us not just identify problems but, more importantly, channel our energy into the creative and empowering act of finding solutions. After all, it's not about having 99 problems; it's about conquering them, one solution at a time.
