What if, instead of freaking out whenever problems pop up (as if we’ll ever solve ALL the problems)…
We focused on creating good problems?
It’s a different way to look at the same challenge, but it’s a critical distinction.
Rather than focus on lack or overwhelm, often a shift to opportunities created can open your eyes to a new way of doing things.
Example 1:
I’m overwhelmed – I have too much work.
Good problem perspective:
Time to raise your rates and filter out the bottom 20% of your clientele so you can attract folks willing to pay a premium (thereby increasing your revenue and profitability, while also “buying back” some of your time as people who can’t afford the increase naturally drop out).
Being overworked in this case can absolutely be a good thing for your growth. It’s uncomfortable now in the same way tight shoes hurt… it’s time to move up, settle into a new, more comfortable size.
Example 2:
I don’t know what to do next.
Good problem perspective:
Oooh, I’ve got a chance to experiment, be playful, and see what happens if I do X. Too many people get paralyzed here… but shifting from overwhelm to curiosity can make a big difference. And of course things could go sideways – but the key is to not attach to the outcomes. Attach to the process, to the chance to try something new just to see how it goes. You may wind up innovating in a major way and revolutionizing the way things are done in your field.
Example 3:
I need to hire, but I’m worried I won’t be able to pay my employee.
Good problem perspective:
Once I’ve delegated all this work I kinda suck at… what kinds of awesomeness will I be able to achieve with all that extra space? Often folks I’ve coached have been overwhelmed by the freedom and space they gained with a good hire, and found their creativity kicked into overdrive – thereby effectively squashing the fear of “will I be able to support this person?”
Business isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to be hard…
It’s all in how you approach today’s problems. Better make sure they’re good ones.