Yesterday I saw a sign in the window of bookstore for a children’s book entitled, “What do you do with a problem?” Author Kobi Yamada and illustrator Mae Besom, creators of the New York Times best-selling book, What Do You Do With an Idea? describe their new book as follows: “What are problems for? They challenge us, shape us, push us and help us to discover just how strong and brave and capable we really are. Even though we don’t always want them, problems have a way of changing us in unexpected ways. So, what will you do with your problem? Now that’s up to you.”
Last week we talked about the problems that come out of left field. This week we’re looking at the opportunities that lie hidden in our problems. Potential chances that can act as professional and personal agents of really bold change.
Here are seven (7) positive opportunities that problems can offer:
1. Show you what you’re made of: Although it may not be a welcomed lesson - problems provide clarity and conviction about who and what is important, not to mention what you’re made of and believe in.
2. Teach you how to “just keep swimming” in a crisis: It’s natural to be a deer caught in the headlights the first time it happens.widthHowever, next time you must apply what you learned about headlights - to avoid getting “stuck.” Remember, you develop the stamina and ability over time. Soon you will know how to balance a problem AND deal with everyday life, career and relationships in positive ways.
3. Remind yourself that no matter what you face - things could always be worse: With time and effort things can and will improve. Even if the problem requires you to navigate a big challenge -still have gratitude for the good things in your life.
4. Force you to take action: Life and career are hectic and sometimes things happen in spite of your best efforts. However, when called to the challenge remember that the first step is to just simply stand up.
5. Give you a chance to learn something new: Everything we experience, especially negative situations that we didn’t cause, often teach us the most. For example, as much as getting laid off sucks it also teaches you about the HR “exit” process, your employee rights, how to claim unemployment works, and the importance of keeping both a CYA (cover your ass) file and an updated resume.
6. Enable you to tap into strengths you never knew you had: Whether it’s learning to cook because a change in your finances does not include eating out or … Problems (a.k.a. opportunities) have an interesting way of unlocking your abilities, interests, and even passions.
7. Teach you what not to do: Some problems teach you about how NOT to do or approach something the next time.
The next time you face a challenge or problem find the motivation to persevere and see the opportunity that lies in the crappiness. This week embrace a new perspective about what problems really are, and what you can do the next time they appear.