A problem-free life would destroy us all.

In a rush to solve problems, don’t neglect their deeper value and ultimate purpose.

Purpose:

The ultimate purpose of problems is they change us – if we let them. Resistance to change multiplies the pain of problems.

It’s necessary to change how you think if you hope to give your best self to the world.

Deeper value of problems:

#1. Center.

Problems remind us that we’re not the center of the universe. People who think they are the center of the universe are easily offended and entitled.

#2. Reminder:

Problems remind us of things we might like to forget.

1. Dependence. We depend on others.
2. Perceived knowledge. We know less than we think. Failure bursts the bubble of perceived knowledge.
3. Responsibility. That pit in our stomach when something goes wrong is responsibility.
4. Blame. The temptation to blame is an easy escape that prevents growth.

#3. Drive:

Problems make us hungry.

Hunger is dissatisfaction and dissatisfaction often becomes drive.

#4. Insight:

Insight that comes from struggling through problems is more about character than competence.

Problems show us we weren’t as competent as we thought, but we’re more resilient than we realize.

Maximize the value of problems by engaging in self-reflection.

1. How are we changing?
2. What are we learning?
3. What’s different about us as a result of facing problems?
4. How might facing problems make us better leaders? Persons? (Be specific.)

What deeper value in problems do you see?

—

This post was previously published on Leadership Freak with a Creative Commons License.

***

Join The Good Men Project as a Premium Member today.

All Premium Members get to view The Good Men Project with NO ADS.

A $50 annual membership gives you an all access pass. You can be a part of every call, group, class and community.
A $25 annual membership gives you access to one class, one Social Interest group and our online communities.
A $12 annual membership gives you access to our Friday calls with the publisher, our online community.

Register New Account

Need more info? A complete list of benefits is here.
—

Photo credit: iStock