It is absolutely essential we become problem solvers. Problem identifiers are a dime a dozen. Anyone can go around pointing out problems. On the other hand, problem solvers are worth their weight in gold. Far too few people spend their time and use their minds looking for solutions. Problems give us opportunities to be creative. If you can identify a problem, you can certainly use your creative abilities to come up with a possible solution or two.
Don’t confuse problem solving with decision making. Problem solving is a brainstorming activity where we look at all the possible options available to us to solve a problem. Decision making is where we select one of those possibilities. Ever make a decision that is not in everyone’s best interest? Make your decisions based on what you know is the right thing to do. Be sure what you choose passes the test of your conscience as well as your integrity.
When you see a problem, prepare a careful analysis of that problem and any other problems it may cause. Make sure you are looking at the real problem and not a symptom of a problem. Once you are positive you are addressing the real problem, create a list of possible solutions and recommendations for alternatives. Then evaluate each option to be sure you are doing what is right for all concerned.
If you feel in your heart it is the right thing to do, do it!
Remember, if you don’t have problems, you aren’t growing! Growth is always a creator of problems. These problems are opportunities. A problem just might be the push you need to do something differently.