Is That Problem a Stone Wall or a Hidden Doorway?
Most people see problems as obstacles. But what if the very challenge you’re facing is the key to achieving a much bigger and more significant goal?
The best leaders don’t just solve problems—they use them as fuel for fundamental improvement and important progress.
Why Problems Can Be Assets
When a problem arises, the instinct is often to fix it as quickly as possible. That makes sense — why tolerate something that you can resolve?
What this approach misses, however, is why the problem exists in the first place. Because problems often point to gaps, inefficiencies, and opportunities for growth.
For example: Acme Company is struggling with sluggish sales of their amazing new product, which is demonstrably better than the competition.
The "fix" to this problem is to lean harder into advertising and marketing. Hire a new ad agency. Engage more influential influencers. Spend more on social media promotions.
But what if leaders get curious, and inquire: What's the root of the problem of sluggish sales? And how can discovering and addressing that root cause help us achieve our overarching mission: innovation that improves people's lives?
Asking these questions can unlock new possibilities beyond knee-jerk solutions.
What if Acme digs deeper and discovers that the real issue is product usability. The new interface is so different from existing conventions that many new buyers give up, and don't experience the benefits or share them with their friends.
Addressing the usability issue not only can boost sales, but — by fulfilling the company's mission of innovation to improve lives — create a better product and stronger net promoter scores.
How to Leverage Problems to Take Advantage of Bigger Opportunities
Reframe the Challenge – Instead of seeing the problem as an inconvenience, ask: “What opportunity does this challenge present?” This shift in thinking transforms frustration into curiosity.
Find the Root Cause – Problems often surface as symptoms of deeper issues. Dig deeper by asking, “What’s really causing this?” rather than treating the immediate effects.
Leverage Constraints – Limitations often spark creativity. Instead of seeing constraints as roadblocks, ask: “How can we turn this into an advantage?”
Strengthen Skills and Systems – Every challenge is an opportunity to improve something—whether it’s a process, a skillset, or a mindset. What improvements can come from solving this problem?
Make It a Learning Experience – Encourage a growth mindset by viewing problems as experiments. “What can we learn from this that will help us in the future?”
The Business Impact of Using Problems Strategically
When leaders use problems as opportunities, they:
Encourage Innovation – Teams become more solution-oriented and creative.
Build Resilience – People see challenges as stepping stones rather than setbacks.
Improve Long-Term Success – Solving problems at their root leads to sustainable growth.
Foster a Learning Culture – Teams continuously evolve and improve rather than avoiding difficulties.
The Takeaway
Problems aren’t just obstacles—they’re invitations to grow, improve, and innovate. The best leaders know how to leverage challenges to build stronger teams, better systems, and lasting success.
How have you used a problem to create a bigger positive outcome? Share your experiences in the comments below.
Got problems? Great — that means you've also got opportunities to grow your leadership. If you want support and guidance on that path, let's talk. Schedule a discovery call at HowieJacobson.com.
