Problems Without Solutions

3 Comments
Topics: Leadership

Don’t point out a problem without offering a solution!

This is similar to the idea we discussed last week about presenting a pipe dream without a plan.

As a leader, you are a problem solver.  You don’t have the luxury of bringing problems without plans.  It’s an elementary attitude to cry wolf without a plan of attack.

Leaders must identify problems, but when you constantly point out problems without providing solutions you are simply a critic, a complainer, a whiner.

Your solution doesn’t have to be THE solution, but when you bring a suggestion for remedying a problem you are showing your commitment to solving it.  You’re not passing the buck.  You’re partnering to figure out how to help overcome it.

When you bring a possible solution, you bring hope of overcoming it.

What problem in your organization needs a suggested solution today?

  • Ron Edmondson

    I agree Jenni, especially with the emphasis in the sentence “Leaders must identify problems, but when you constantly point out
    problems without providing solutions you are simply a critic, a
    complainer, a whiner.”  I will say, however, that there will be times when the leader simply knows there is a problem, but has no clue how to fix it. If the leader has shaped a team of other leaders, that’s when teamwork kicks in….”Here’s a problem. Do you agree with it? Help me fix it. Let’s throw ideas on the table. Brainstorm.” Sometimes, in a healthy environment, exposing a problem welcomes the help to solve it.

    Love how you lead and share it with us.

  • http://www.executivepastoronline.com/ Kevin M. Stone

    Words to live by! There are lots of “critics” … not many good “leaders.”

  • http://twitter.com/kentprichardson Kent R

    No way. I was on a similar wave length today! http://www.kentrichardson.net/2013/the-problem-with-being-a-problem-solver/