What complainers and problem solvers have in common

(and how to leverage it)

Society loves problem solvers but hates complainers. The gap between the two is narrow, as both start by identifying an issue. 

• A complainer reverberates the issue across relevant and irrelevant audiences, regardless of priority — with or without a desired outcome

• A problem solver identifies the priority, audience, and solution

The difference impacts a person’s reputation and growth trajectory. 

• A complainer is seen as a squeaky wheel, that distracts the team from work

• A problem solver is seen as a hero, who enables the right kind of work

But problem-solving is a skill. And like all skills, it lives on a spectrum. 

• An ok problem solver sees a big issue and calls it out:

  • There is a gap in project management and I don’t know where to turn because things are poorly documented, I will push myself hard to fill these gaps but this situation is a cluster. My brut force will fill the gaps

• A fantastic problem solver untangles issues and manages their priority to the correct audience:

  • Issue 1: Who is accountable for project management?

    • Here are 2 ideas, let’s align on a solution. 

  • Issue 2: Where do they document or capture their goals and progress?

    • Is there an existing mechanism? Is it enforced? Who is accountable?

  • Issue 3: Are they aware of their role? And has their manager communicated it?

    • Is there a role definition issue at the core of this? Who can solve it?

Cross the chasm from complainer to problem solver

Below is a series of steps to morph from complainer to problem solver, the lifecycle of a solution:

• Identify issue

• Evaluate priority

• Determine accountable parties

• Brainstorm the desired outcome

• Match outcome to potential paths forward

• Assign to appropriate owner/timeline (or delegate/handoff)

• Execute solution

Problem-solving skills will make you stand out in any domain, from parenting to medicine to architecture to entrepreneurship. Good luck,

LS

👋 Hey, I'm Layla. Join me in my weekly newsletter, where I provide insights into enhancing leadership skills and increasing productivity. If you haven't subscribed yet, here's a recap of a few posts you may enjoy:

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