My staff knows that when they present a problem that I will follow with, “Well here is an opportunity”. I believe that every problem has a solution and problems only present an opportunity for someone to show her/his leadership potential. Those who think in terms of solutions instead of problems are difference makers. Our personality type, upbringing, and personal history may affect our natural inclination to being solution-oriented, but anyone can become solution oriented with a change in mindset.
John Maxwell asks us to consider three truths he believes all solution-seeking people recognize:
Problems are a matter of perspective. Obstacles, setbacks, and failures are simply parts of life. You can’t avoid them. But that doesn’t mean you have to allow them to become problems. The best thing you can do is to meet them with a solution-oriented mindset. It’s just a matter of attitude.
All problems are solvable. Some of the great problems solvers have been inventors. As an inventor, Edison made 1,000 unsuccessful attempts at inventing the light bulb. When a reporter asked, “How did it feel to fail 1,000 times?” Edison replied, “I didn’t fail 1,000 times. The light bulb was an invention with 1,000 steps.”
Problems either stop us or stretch us. Problems either hurt you or help you. Depending on how you approach them, they’ll stop you from succeeding or stretch you so that you not only overcome them but also become a better person in the process. The choice is yours.
Be a solution seeker, and watch the difference you will make in your life and the lives of others.
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