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The 4 Types of Problem-Solvers (and Why Knowing Which One You Are Will Make You More Successful)

There is more to motivation than ambition and work ethic. learn how to recognize and maximize key drivers for business success..

Entrepreneurs are typically highly motivated individuals . Driven and ambitious, they see the reward in taking less predictable approaches and embracing routines that stray from the standard 9 to 5 in pursuit of the big break.

When you are solely responsible for your own success, removed from the safety net of corporate infrastructure and hierarchical team structures, you have an immense need for self-motivation . The motivations of others also become more impactful. But motivation is far more complex than we often realize. Different minds are stimulated in different ways--it's this intricate blend of psyches that makes work culture so fascinating. Through diverse approaches, even those that conflict with one another, we land on solutions that are far more interesting than those we would if everyone were programed to think the same way.

However, these mindsets don't necessarily work in synergy, and so maximizing them--both our own and others'--is as much about acknowledging them as it is about displaying them in the first place. I've found that people operate on extreme motivations that fall into four distinct categories, and while this is not a judgmental spectrum it does offer some insight into how individuals operate and how to get the best out of them. It's about various ways we can think about who we are in the world of business and invention.

1. You're either problem-oriented, focused on a challenge, or solution-oriented, focused on resolution.

There are two ways to tackle a problem. First, you can zone in on the issue at hand and explore appropriate responses that will lead to an effective end result. There is an absence of reality here, and it can have the potential to be too narrowly focused as you become embroiled in the issue at hand. Alternatively, you can look beyond the problem itself and picture the positive outcome you want to work toward. By focusing on this, you allow for change and fluidity, adapting the individual solutions along the way.

Think about it in the context of setting up a new business. A leader who is problem-oriented will consider the steps needed to reach the short-term goal of making money--the number of clients required, the budgets required, and so on. A solution-oriented individual will consider the bigger picture--long-term business growth, acquisition, diversification--and create a route to resolution based on that. Through a more future-focused lens, incremental solutions can be found along the journey to this goal.

2. You're either task-oriented, focused on progress, or goal-oriented, focused on accomplishment.

Project management typically falls into two schools of thought. There are those who break the work down into tasks that are assigned to different groups, who then work step by step like a symphony as they pursue measured progress. Work becomes highly processed, with each achievement being accomplished in methodical and ordered ways. On the other hand, we see individuals who focus on the end goal and allow for change and adaptation along the way. By prioritizing the anticipated accomplishment, these people can be more fluid and flexible, allowing for unanticipated changes along the way.

3. You're either competitively oriented, focused on being the best, or collaboratively oriented, focused on working together.

In the U.S., in particular, we are constantly fed messages that pertain to achievement and winning. The American dream is built on prosperity and success, and from an early age we are encouraged to idealize being the best. Competitively oriented people are motivated to pursue individual excellence--they want to be number one. Yet there are others who are no less driven but instead seek satisfaction through collaboration and shared ambition: connecting with others, mining group intelligence, and maintaining unity among the group. When working with such individuals, it's critical to maintain contact and assign roles, in contrast to competitively oriented people who perform best when given a task and are met at the other end.

4. You're either self-identity oriented, focused on personal identity, or collective-identity oriented, focused on belonging or the sense of team. 

The final categorization is perhaps the most intriguing and applies to a deeper personal impulse. While the other characteristics apply to an individual's approach to his or her work and professional attainment, motivations around identity are indicative of a more intrinsic desire. Those focused on self-identity are motivated by activities that will further their personal brand. Decisions are made on the basis of the value they offer to furthering oneself, with each achievement considered a steppingstone to self-promotion. Alternatively, a possibly more intuitive group favors collective identity, shared values, and ambitions combined for a more holistic definition of success.

So, what does this mean for your business?

No single approach is better than the other. Instead, recognizing and understanding these motivational drivers will yield the best results. As individuals, we benefit from self-awareness and exploration. Spend time considering your motivations, and you can build a working environment that will encourage a higher success rate. When considering clients and colleagues, use motivational drivers like a tool; celebrate the diversity and show empathy toward the ways in which you can work best with each approach. Flexibility is key to maximizing these innate characteristics--doing this can help you and your business thrive.

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Characteristics of solution-oriented leaders and how to foster this mindset on your team

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It doesn’t matter how effective a leader you might be —at some point, you (and your team!) are going to run into some common problems.

Leadership isn’t about creating a problem-free work environment. It’s how you choose to approach and manage the inevitable bumps in the road that arise that will set you apart as an effective leader.

If you want to maximize effectiveness—for yourself and your team—the best way to approach and manage those problems is with a solution-oriented mindset.

Being a solution-oriented leader is a great way to better and more swiftly manage challenges in your business—and to encourage your team to do the same.

But what, exactly, is solution-oriented leadership? What are the top characteristics of solution-oriented leaders? And how can you foster a more solution-oriented mindset—both within yourself and in your team?

The Top Qualities Of Solution-Oriented Leaders

First things first. Before jumping into how to become a more solution-oriented leader (and to inspire the same kind of solution-focused mindset in your team), let’s quickly touch on what solution-oriented leadership is .

Some of the top characteristics of solution-oriented leaders include:

They Know When To Take Action—And When To Take A Step Back

When a problem arises, solution-oriented leaders don’t sit around waiting for a solution to present itself—they get out there and take action to find the solution themselves.

“Leaders who are solution-oriented are really focused on action conversations ,” says Heather Marasse, Executive Coach and Managing Partner of Trilogy Effect . “They want to keep things moving and they’re very curious when things stop; they want to dig into what’s stopping the action. Because action is what produces results and solution-oriented leaders are results-focused.”

But interestingly, the opposite is also true. While solution-oriented leaders don’t hesitate to take action when necessary, they also recognize when they’re more likely to find the solution by taking a step back, sitting with the problem, and approaching the issue from the right headspace.

“Very often, we think a solution-oriented leader is very quick to action. But I think it’s essential that you have the ability to stop, to pause before you respond,” says Victoria Roos Olsson, a Senior Leadership Consultant at FranklinCovey with over 20 years of experience in leadership development and coaching. “It’s very easy to jump into action…but solution -oriented is not necessarily the same thing as action -oriented.”

They Keep Their Focus Forward

Solution-oriented leaders don’t spin their wheels stressing about past problems or what’s going wrong; instead, they keep their eye on the prize—and keep their focus on what needs to happen for themselves and their teams to continue moving forward.

“We get so caught up in what’s going on in the moment and what’s happened in the past, we kind of lose sight of that future horizon and the longer game,” says Marasse. “Leaders who are most solution-oriented tend to have a very relentless focus on the future. They really keep the horizon in front of themselves and their teams.”

They Inspire Their Team To Focus On Solutions

When you’re a leader, it’s important to cultivate a solution-focused mindset within yourself. But that’s only part of the equation, the most effective solution-oriented leaders inspire the same “let’s roll up our sleeves and figure this out” mentality in their teams.

“Just because you are a solution-oriented person , it doesn’t necessarily make you a solution-oriented leader ,” says Olsson. “The whole purpose of you being a leader is that you can create that [solution-oriented mindset] in others.”

How To Strengthen A Solution-Oriented Mindset As A Leader

Cultivating a solution-oriented mindset is a must for effective leadership. But how, exactly, can you cultivate that mindset for yourself?

Ask For Feedback

You can’t find a solution if you don’t recognize there’s a problem. And when it comes to things you could do better as a leader, chances are, you’ve got some blinders on.

That’s where feedback comes in. Asking your team for feedback on how you can improve can help identify problems that you may not be able to see on your own—and, more importantly, find solutions to those problems so you can become a more effective leader.

Ask your team to help you identify areas in your management or leadership style where they see opportunities for growth or for things they feel like you could be doing better. Then (and this is the important part!), stay open and receptive as you receive that feedback.

Having an open and receptive attitude towards feedback will help your team feel more comfortable being honest with you. “How we listen shapes what people feel they can say,” says Olsson—and in order for your team’s feedback to help you identify problems and shift to a more solution-oriented place, you need their feedback to be genuine.

And, as a bonus, not only can getting feedback make you a more effective manager, but giving your team the space to openly share their feedback can actually help their performance as well. According to Atlassian’s research , among high-performing teams, 57 percent of employees said they feel comfortable delivering feedback to people higher up on the org chart—compared to just 15 percent on low-performing teams.

Ask The Questions To Find The Right Answers

You might think that being a solution-oriented leader means finding the answers to problems. But if you want to find innovative and effective solutions, it might do you better to focus on the questions.

“If you want the best answers, you first need to ask the best questions,” says Olsson. “So, really looking at ‘What are the things that are not working? What is it that we’re needing? What should we look for now? Where’s the gap? Why did we do it that way? What’s happening here or what if anything was possible?’”

When faced with a problem in your business, get curious. Get inquisitive. Dig into the questions. By engaging your curiosity, the answers to your questions—aka the solutions to your problems—will naturally emerge.

Stop Playing The Blame Game

When you’re dealing with a frustrating problem, it can be tempting to point the finger and find someone or something to blame. But if you truly want to get to the solution, stay open minded and collaborative.

“When you start getting into finger pointing and accusations and upsets, it’s probably a red flag that you’re now getting into the problem instead of focusing on the solution,” says Marasse.

The next time you find yourself faced with a problem, instead of trying to find something or someone to blame—which is completely subjective—focus on objective facts.

For example, let’s say you find out your products are shipping a full month past their target date as a result of a warehouse error. “It’s one thing to say that the product shipped 30 days late. It’s another thing to say, the development group didn’t have their act together,” says Marasse. “You want to focus on the facts.”

By refusing to play the blame game (and, instead, focusing on the facts at hand), it’s easier to stay objective and find a solution instead of getting caught up in feeling frustrated or angry at the situation.

Build A Solution-Oriented Culture With Your Team

You know by now that having a solution-oriented mindset is important. But if you truly want to be a solution-oriented leader, it’s important to inspire that same kind of mindset throughout your organization.

Try out these strategies to ensure that your solution-oriented approaches inspire the same kind of mindset in your team.

Empower Your Team To Find The Answers

There’s an old saying that goes, “Give a person a fish and you feed them for a day. Teach them how to fish, and you feed them for a lifetime.”

Well, it’s the same thing with solutions. If you want your team to become more solution-oriented, you can’t just give them the solutions to all their problems—you have to help them develop the skills necessary for them to find those solutions for themselves.

“If you want a solution-oriented team and culture, you need to stop giving them the answers,” says Olsson. Instead, try asking them open-ended questions to help them explore the issue and brainstorm solutions. 

“Say, ‘Hey, that’s a really good question. Let’s think about it. What’s your thoughts  on it? How would you approach it?,’” says Olsson. 

The more you put the ball back in their court, the more your team will realize that coming to you with a problem isn’t going to get them the answers they want/need—and the more empowered they’ll feel about finding those answers themselves.

“Eventually, they’ll stop coming with the problems and…[instead], they’ll come with, ‘Hey, I thought of this, would that be a cool idea?’ or ‘I have three different solutions to this problem, can we talk about it?,’” says Olsson. “And that’s exactly where you want to go.”

Embrace Mistakes

The road to finding solutions is rarely a smooth one—especially when you and your team are pushing boundaries or trying new things. So, if you want to keep your team motivated to keep pushing towards solutions, you need to embrace and celebrate every bump in the road .

“If you’re wanting your people to be innovative and dare greatly with their actions, then there needs to be room for mistakes,” says Marrasse. “There needs to be room for failure, and there needs to be a sense of compassion and acceptance around things breaking down.”

When you or someone on your team makes a mistake, celebrate the fact that you figured out something that doesn’t work—and then use that as a springboard for figuring out what does . Otherwise, “you’re going to shut down innovation around you and you’re going to shut down communication around you,” continues Marasse. “That’s the last thing you want if you’re trying to move forward and get solutions in place.”

Taking a positive—or even celebratory—approach to mess-ups “shows to your team that it’s safe to make mistakes,” says Olsson. “And if you’re never making a mistake, you’re never going to progress and find the solutions you’re looking for.”

Celebrate The Wins—And The Journey It Took To Get There

The whole purpose of being solution-oriented is finding solutions to problems. But once the solution has been found, many leaders and teams are so focused on moving onto the next problem. Instead, they don’t take the time to acknowledge their win—and what they can learn from that win to make them more effective problem-solvers moving forward.

“Teams get so focused on problem-solving that often they step over celebrating the wins—and not just what the wins are , but what it took for them to get the win.”

For example, let’s say you and your team finally gained a lead you’ve been nurturing for a year. Instead of immediately moving on to the next lead, take a moment to celebrate—and then figure out what lessons you can take from the experience to be more effective in your pitching moving forward. What about the final pitch pushed the client over the edge and made them close? Did your sales team change something about their process? Did you find a more effective way to speak to the client’s pain points? 

By looking at how you and your team problem-solved your issue and effectively came to a solution, you can better prepare yourself for the next time a similar problem arises—and get to the solution faster and more effectively.

Conjure A Solution-Focused Mindset And Encourage Your Team To Follow Suit

It can be easy to get stuck in a problem. But now that you know how to become a more solution-oriented leader, you have everything you need to get yourself—and your team!—out of the problem and into the solution. 

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and cultivate a more solution-focused approach to work: for yourself, for your team, and for your organization as a whole.

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Solutions Oriented: How To Cultivate A Results-Driven Mindset

• September 18, 2023
• HR Management

Table of Contents

Ah, the thrill of facing a problem head-on and emerging victorious! Every problem-solver, from a novice to a seasoned expert, knows this feeling. And if you’ve ever found yourself drowning in an issue, wondering why others seem to navigate it effortlessly, you might have noticed a common trait among them – they’re solutions oriented.

What does it mean to be “solutions or solution oriented person”? Is it just a modern-day jargon, or is there more to it? Picture this: Two people are stuck in a dense forest. The first one panics, thinking of all the wild animals, the cold night, and the uncertainty of getting out. The second one, while acknowledging these threats, starts thinking, “How can I climb a tree to see a way out?” or “Can I use the sun’s position to determine the direction?” The second person is a solutions oriented leader or solution oriented leader.

This mindset isn’t about denying problems or being unrealistically optimistic. It’s about focusing energy on: finding solutions, the right answers, learning, and adapting. It’s the difference between seeing a dead-end versus a detour. Being solutions oriented means constantly looking for avenues, even in seemingly impossible situations. It’s about resilience, innovation, and tenacity.

Solutions oriented means focusing on results, finding answers, no risks and relentlessly pursuing the best possible outcomes. Dive in to learn how to cultivate this mindset and succeed in any challenge.

In this guide, we’ll embark on an enlightening journey into the solution oriented mindset and other solution oriented approaches. We’ll delve deep into what it means to be solutions oriented, how you can cultivate this mindset, and the multifaceted benefits it brings to your personal and professional life. Whether you’re a young professional grappling with the challenges of the corporate world or a stay-at-home parent figuring out daily household conundrums, the solutions oriented mindset is your ally.

The world doesn’t stop throwing curveballs. What matters is how we catch them, or better yet, how we hit them back. So, tighten your belts, fellow traveler. By the end of this exploration, you’ll be armed with the tools, insights, and mindset to tackle any challenge that comes your way. Onward and upward!

Understanding A Solutions Oriented Approach

The term “solutions oriented organization” often pops up in corporate jargon, self-help books, and even casual conversations with business leader. But what does it truly encompass? Let’s dive deep into its essence and understand the fundamentals of this approach.

Defining “Solutions Oriented”:

Being solutions or solution oriented team goes beyond the simple act of solving problems. It’s an ingrained mindset, a holistic approach to challenges. Imagine life’s hurdles as a labyrinth. A solutions or solution oriented person doesn’t merely wander aimlessly, hoping for an exit. Instead, they meticulously study the maze, anticipate dead ends, and strategize their route.

Shift From Problem Focus To Solution Focus:

It’s easy for leaders to get trapped in a whirlwind of problems. They’re daunting, often overwhelming, and can cloud our judgment. However, the essence of a problem focused, solutions oriented approach is a steadfast, focused focus on the ‘how’ rather than the ‘why’. While understanding the root of the organization or problem is crucial, dwelling on it without forward momentum serves no purpose. The energy spent lamenting on a problem is better used crafting solutions.

Embrace The Learning Curve:

Every challenge you face is cloaked in lessons. When adopting a solutions oriented mindset, one understands that no challenge is void of value. It’s not about how many times you fall but how you rise after every fall, absorbing the lessons and ensuring the stumbles refine, not define you.

The Proactive vs. Reactive Dichotomy:

A reactive mindset waits for problems to arise and then scrambles to address them. It’s often associated with panic, hasty decisions, and short-term fixes. On the other hand, a proactive, solutions oriented mindset anticipates challenges and prepares for them. It doesn’t merely put out fires; it prevents them.

Continuous Evolution:

The world is in perpetual motion. What worked yesterday may be obsolete today. Being a solutions oriented leader means constantly updating your leadership toolkit, learning, unlearning, and relearning. It’s a commitment to evolution, ensuring you’re always equipped with the best strategies to tackle contemporary leadership challenges.

Key Points:

“Solutions Oriented” is a holistic, proactive approach to challenges.

Focus energy on crafting solutions rather than dwelling on problems.

Every challenge presents opportunities to learn and grow.

Anticipate and prepare for challenges instead of merely reacting to them.

Commit to continuous evolution to remain adept at handling new challenges.

Cultivating A Solutions Oriented Mindset

It’s crucial to recognize that a solutions oriented mindset isn’t a switch you can simply flip on. It’s a garden you cultivate, nurturing it with the right habits, perspectives, and environment. As you grow this solution oriented mindset, not only do you become adept at addressing challenges, but you also evolve as an individual. Let’s uncover the steps and practices to cultivate this empowering mindset.

Stay Curious – The Power of ‘Why’ and ‘How’:

Remember as a child, when every discovery was accompanied by a barrage of ‘whys’ and ‘hows’? This innate curiosity is the foundation of a solutions oriented approach. Instead of accepting things at face value, delve deeper. Whether you’re facing a problem or learning something new, always question the status quo. The quest for understanding drives innovation.

Accept Failures Graciously – Lessons in Disguise:

We’ve been conditioned to view failures as setbacks. In truth, they are invaluable lessons. Every misstep brings with it insights that textbooks and tutorials often can’t offer. By embracing failures, analyzing what went wrong, and iterating based on those insights, you fine-tune your approach and inch closer to effective business solutions .

Surround Yourself With Like-Minded People – Environment Matters:

Your environment, both physical and social, plays a pivotal role in shaping your mindset. Surrounding yourself with solutions oriented individuals ensures that you’re continually inspired, challenged, and supported. Their constructive feedback, diverse perspectives, and shared drive for solutions can act as catalysts for your growth.

Setting Clear Goals – The North Star:

A solutions oriented mindset thrives on clarity. When you have clear goals, it becomes easier to chart a path to achieve them and find solutions aligned with those objectives. These goals act as your North Star, guiding you through challenges and helping you maintain focus on what truly matters.

Develop Resilience – The Art of Bouncing Back:

Resilience is the bedrock of a solutions oriented mindset. It’s not about avoiding failures, but about how quickly and effectively you can bounce back from them. Cultivating resilience involves embracing discomfort, practicing patience, and understanding that the path to solutions will often be riddled with obstacles. Instead of being disheartened, view them as parts of the journey, honing your skills and resolve.

Continuous Learning – Keeping the Toolbox Updated:

In a rapidly changing world, resting on one’s laurels is a recipe for obsolescence. Adopt a learner’s mindset. Attend workshops, read books, participate in discussions, and always seek to expand your horizons. The more tools (knowledge and skills) you have in your toolbox, the better equipped you are to devise innovative solutions.

Nurture innate curiosity; question and understand the ‘why’ and ‘how’.

Embrace failures as rich learning experiences.

Your environment, including the people around you, can either foster or hinder a solutions oriented approach.

Set clear , actionable goals to guide your problem-solving journey.

Build resilience; it’s the backbone of facing and overcoming challenges.

Dedicate yourself to continuous learning to stay adaptive and innovative.

Software Tools To Boost Your Solutions Oriented Approach

In today’s digital age, it’s not just about having the right mindset but also about harnessing the right tools. While a solutions oriented approach is about your mental and emotional faculties, certain software tools can amplify your capacity to solve problems and create impactful solutions. These tools can help streamline processes, organize thoughts, and drive collaboration. Let’s take a closer look at some of these indispensable tools.

Trello – Visualize and Organize Your Ideas:

Trello provides a visual way to organize tasks, ideas, and projects. It’s based on the Kanban methodology and allows users to create boards, lists, and cards to prioritize and categorize tasks. For someone aiming to adopt a solutions oriented mindset, it’s vital to have clarity, and Trello offers just that. By visually mapping out tasks, one can identify bottlenecks, streamline processes, and foster collaboration.

MindMeister – Mapping Your Thoughts:

MindMeister is a collaborative mind-mapping tool. It’s fantastic for brainstorming sessions, organizing thoughts, and visualizing complex concepts. Whether you’re tackling a personal project or a business challenge, this tool helps lay out all facets of a problem, enabling a comprehensive solutions oriented approach.

Evernote – Centralized Note-Taking:

With Evernote , you can keep all your ideas, research, and notes in one centralized place. Its robust search capabilities ensure that you never lose track of crucial information. Being solutions and solution oriented leader often means collating information from varied sources, and Evernote helps you manage this seamlessly.

Slack – Enhancing Collaboration:

Slack is more than just a messaging app; it’s a hub for teamwork. For solutions to truly shine, collaboration is key. Slack provides channels for different projects, ensuring that conversations are organized and accessible. Integrated file sharing, third-party app integrations, and the ability to quickly search across conversations make it a powerhouse for collaborative problem solving.

Coursera – Continuous Learning and Skill Development:

Knowledge is power, especially in a solutions oriented approach. Coursera offers a plethora of courses from universities and institutions around the world, covering diverse topics. From critical thinking to technical skills, continuous learning becomes effortless with such a platform.

Asana – Task and Project Management:

For larger projects, especially in team settings, Asana shines bright. With a clean interface and robust features, it’s perfect for tracking team progress, delegating tasks, and ensuring that every team member is aligned towards a solution.

Trello aids in visualizing tasks, thereby bringing clarity to the problem-solving process.

MindMeister is invaluable for brainstorming and dissecting complex challenges.

Evernote ensures all your notes and research are organized and easily accessible.

Slack fosters effective communication, making collaborative problem-solving a breeze.

Coursera empowers individuals with knowledge, a cornerstone of the solutions oriented approach.

Asana is perfect for managing larger projects, ensuring everyone is in sync and geared towards a solution.

The Perks Of Being Solutions Oriented

Opting for a solutions oriented approach isn’t just a productive move; it’s transformative. While it’s evident that this approach offers an effective way to navigate challenges, the perks of a solution oriented leader and team extend beyond just problem-solving. They permeate various aspects of personal and professional life, creating ripples of positive change. Let’s delve into the multifaceted benefits of being a solutions oriented leader.

Boosted Confidence & Self-Efficacy:

When you consistently focus on finding creative solutions and witness your strategies turning into successful business outcomes, it naturally boosts your confidence. You start believing in your abilities, cultivating a sense of self-efficacy. This isn’t just about feeling good; it’s about knowing that you possess the skills and mindset to tackle challenges head-on.

Enhanced Resilience & Adaptability:

Challenges are inevitable. However, a solutions oriented approach equips you with resilience. When faced with setbacks, instead of succumbing to frustration, you see them as temporary roadblocks. This mindset fosters adaptability, allowing you to pivot and modify your strategies based on evolving circumstances.

Strengthened Collaborative Skills:

A solutions oriented lead individual understands the value of collaboration. By seeking diverse perspectives, brainstorming, and pooling together collective expertise, a team and solutions become more robust and holistic. This collaborative approach to leadership not only resolves challenges but also fosters a culture of teamwork and mutual respect.

Increased Value in Professional Settings:

In the corporate world, problem solvers are invaluable. By consistently showcasing a solutions oriented approach, you position yourself as an asset. Leaders and peers recognize and appreciate individuals who can transform challenges into opportunities, leading to career advancements and growth opportunities.

Promotion of Continuous Learning:

Being solutions oriented often means you’re on the lookout for knowledge, resources and skills that can aid in crafting solutions. This inherent curiosity and drive promote a culture of continuous learning, ensuring you remain updated, relevant, and ever-evolving, both personally and professionally.

Reduction of Stress & Anxiety:

Dwelling on problems can be mentally taxing, leading to increased stress and anxiety. However, when you shift your focus to developing solutions yourself, it brings clarity and a sense of purpose. Knowing that you’re taking proactive steps to address challenges can significantly reduce feelings of overwhelm and helplessness.

Inspiration to Others:

Your approach to challenges doesn’t just benefit you; it serves as an inspiration to others. By modeling a solutions oriented mindset, you motivate those around you to adopt similar strategies, creating a ripple effect of positive problem-solving.

A solutions oriented approach cultivates confidence and a belief in one’s abilities.

It fosters resilience and the ability to adapt to changing scenarios.

Enhances teamwork and collaboration, making problem-solving a collective effort.

Positions you as a valuable asset in professional environments, paving the way for growth.

Champions continuous learning , ensuring personal and professional evolution.

Acts as a buffer against stress, promoting mental well-being.

Serves as an inspiration, motivating others to become solution seekers.

FAQ – Unraveling the Solutions Oriented Approach

Navigating the world with a solutions oriented mindset can be a rewarding journey, but like any paradigm shift, it comes with its own set of queries. Here are some frequently asked questions to provide deeper insights and clarity.

Isn’t focusing solely on solutions too simplistic?

No, it’s not about oversimplifying problems. A solutions oriented approach encourages diving deep into challenges to understand their intricacies. It’s about shifting focus from merely highlighting issues to actively brainstorm solutions more problems and seeking ways to resolve and solve whatever problem arises from them, ensuring a balanced perspective that acknowledges complexity while seeking resolution.

How can I differentiate between being solutions oriented and just being optimistic?

While both traits can overlap, they are distinct. Being optimistic means maintaining a positive outlook regardless of circumstances. A solutions oriented individual, on the other hand, couples this positive outlook with actionable strategies. They don’t just hope for the best; they actively work towards the best outcome.

Are there situations where this approach might not be ideal?

Every approach has its context. While a solutions oriented mindset is beneficial in many workplace scenarios, there are moments, especially in personal or emotional situations with clients, where simply listening and empathizing is more appropriate than immediately jumping to solutions.

How do I deal with individuals who are resistant to solutions?

Resistance can stem from fear, skepticism, or past experiences. It’s essential to communicate effectively with leaders, empathize with their concerns, provide feedback, and sometimes even showcase small wins or proofs of concept to build trust and demonstrate the viability of proposed solutions.

Can this approach be taught or is it innate?

While some individuals might naturally gravitate towards problem-solving, a solutions oriented approach can definitely be cultivated. Through practices like continuous learning, seeking feedback, and fostering resilience, anyone can develop and hone this mindset.

How does one avoid getting overwhelmed when seeking solutions?

It’s crucial to break challenges down into smaller, manageable parts. Tackling each aspect step by step not only makes the process less daunting but also allows for clearer, more targeted solutions.

Is it possible to be too solutions oriented?

Balance is key. While being proactive is commendable, hastily jumping to solutions without fully understanding a problem can be counterproductive. It’s essential to strike a balance between analysis and action.

How can I measure the effectiveness of my solutions oriented approach?

Feedback is invaluable. Regularly seek feedback from peers, superiors, or those affected by your solutions. Additionally, self-reflection and tracking the tangible outcomes of your strategies can provide insights into areas of improvement.

Can this mindset be applied to personal challenges as well?

Absolutely! From personal development goals to interpersonal relationships, a solutions oriented approach can offer clarity, direction, and constructive strategies to navigate challenges.

Are there any risks associated with this approach?

Like any approach, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution faster this. There might be instances where a proposed solution doesn’t pan out as expected. It’s essential to be adaptable, learn from such experiences, and iterate your solution accordingly.

The solutions oriented approach is not about oversimplification but rather a shift in focus towards actionable strategies.

It differs from mere optimism by coupling a positive outlook with actionable steps.

This mindset is flexible and can be applied in a variety of situations, both personal and professional.

It can be cultivated, and continuous feedback and reflection are vital to its effectiveness.

Balance is key; understanding problems thoroughly before proposing solutions is crucial.

As we’ve journeyed forward through the facets of a solutions oriented mindset, it’s evident that this is not merely a methodology but a transformative way of living. Embracing such an approach reshapes the way we perceive challenges, turning them into opportunities waiting to be unlocked.

Historically, humankind’s greatest advancements have stemmed from an innate desire to explore and find solutions. From the wheel to the World Wide Web, our legacy is paved with examples of transcending barriers through innovative solutions. And while the scale of these solutions varies, the underlying principle remains constant: a focused drive to better our circumstances.

But why does this solution oriented approach resonate so deeply? For one, it provides a sense of purpose. In a world inundated with challenges, both big and small, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, a solutions oriented mindset reframes these challenges, giving us a mission and a sense of direction. Instead of being bogged down by problems, we become architects of change, actively crafting strategies to improve our world.

Moreover, this mindset fosters personal growth. Every time we face a challenge with a solutions oriented approach, we grow — in skills, knowledge, and character. We learn the art of resilience, the power of collaboration, and the value of continuous learning. It’s a journey of self-improvement, where every challenge faced is a lesson learned.

Additionally, this approach transcends the personal sphere. By being solutions oriented, we inspire those around us. It’s contagious. Teams work more cohesively, communities come together, and positive change becomes a collaborative whole team effort.

In essence, adopting a solutions and solution oriented leadership mindset is akin to lighting a beacon in the face of adversity. It illuminates paths that might otherwise remain obscured. It offers hope, not just through hollow optimism, for example, but through actionable strategies that promise to lead to tangible change.

As you move forward, armed with this newfound understanding, remember: challenges are but puzzles waiting to be solved. And with a solutions oriented approach, you hold the pieces that can craft the future into a brighter, more promising picture for future you.

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Problem vs. Solution Focused Thinking

Every person approaches a problem in a different way. Some focus on the problem or the reason why a problem emerged (problem focused thinking). Others prefer to think about possible solutions that help them to solve a problem (solution focused thinking).  Problem Oriented Thinking:  Approaching a difficult situation problem-oriented might be helpful if we attempt to avoid similar problems or mistakes in the future, but when it comes to solving the problem we simply waste large amounts of our precious time! Problem-focused thinking does not help us at all to solve difficult situations, which is especially necessary in times where one must find quick solutions to an upcoming problem. Furthermore, the problem focused approach can have negative effects on one’s motivation, but more on this later.

The whole “problem vs. solution oriented thinking” – approach does not only apply when a person faces a problem or a difficult situation (as previously mentioned), but is also being applied in one’s everyday life, when we have to face a challenging task or when having to perform several duties. In fact: if we really focus our attention on this topic we can discover that the majority of our decisions and our attitudes towards tasks, problems and upcoming situations will either be problem or solution oriented. In order to demonstrate you the problem and solution focused approach I have chosen to give you the example of a college student:

Let’s say there is a college student that really does not like math at all (it doesn’t matter what subject he does not like, but I do not like math as well) . Just like every other college student, he will have to do some homework for math and if he wants to pass the exams he will have to study a lot, whether he likes math or not. The student would be approaching the subject math problem-oriented if he would continuously imagine all the negative aspects of math that he does not like and might ask himself the question, “Why do I have to study for math? For what kind of reason?” . The college student would be talking with his fellow students about the pointlessness of math, which will only strengthen his negative opinion about math. Rather than focusing his energy on studying for math he will get uptight and spends large amounts of his time in an ineffective way, that won’t help him to pass the exams.

When I was in school I heard similar questions whole the time, especially when it came to subjects that the majority of my classmates did not like. To be honest, when I was younger I was asking myself these questions as well, especially in subjects that I knew were pointless for the profession I wanted to become. When I grew older I started to scrutinize this behavior and noticed how senseless it was to focus all my attention on problem focused thinking, especially as this only decreased my motivation and strengthened my resentment towards these subjects.

Discovering that one is majorly approaching tasks and challenges problem focused can be really difficult, but once we are aware of this we can start to change our focus from the problem towards the solution and make use of the solution-focused thinking.

Let us come back to the example of the college student that was thinking problem oriented. In order to think solution oriented, he would need to completely accept the fact that math is a part of his schedule and will, therefore, be tested in his exams, whether he likes math or not. By accepting this fact he will easily destroy the root cause for questions that focus on the reason for something (“Why?”) and that only waste his time.

We start to think solution oriented once we are aware that we cannot change certain facts/problems and will only spend our time in an inefficient way when we seek for the possible reasons for these situations. By clarifying the reasons why the task we have to face (e.g. math) might be important, for example, to get accepted to a good university or to increase our GPA, we can bring the solution focused thinking to a further level.

It is really astounding to see how many people are thinking problem oriented, especially as this behavior starts in school and can be found in the professional world as well, for example when an employee has to face a new task that he is not familiar with, or has little to no knowledge about. Those that think problem-oriented would be imagining all the negative consequences they might have to face or all the mistakes they might commit when trying to solve the task. The employee will talk about his difficult situation with different colleagues, his partner or friends, which will only increase his fear of the upcoming task.

When you focus only on the problem, you might miss a new path.

The employee that quite in the contrary knows of the benefits of solution focused thinking does not struggle with the new task for a second, as he is too busy to take necessary preparations to solve it. He will completely accept the new task as a challenge, or even consider the task as a chance to prove his boss that he is capable of solving even the more advanced tasks.

How to avoid problem focused thinking?

#1 self-knowledge:.

In order to avoid problem focused thinking and to replace it with solution-oriented thinking we firstly need to discover that we approach different tasks, problems, challenges, etc. in a problem-oriented way. This is the utmost important step to do. You can identify whether you approach tasks problem-oriented by paying attention towards the questions that arise when you have to face a task that you do not like, which might be indicators for problem focused thinking:

• Why do I have to perform this task?
• What is the reason that I have to study this subject?
• Why do I even spend time with this?

#2 Fight problem-oriented questions:

The very first step to approach problems with solution focused thinking is to avoid questions that mainly focus on the reason or the problem in general. You need to clarify yourself that the question for the “WHY” will only waste important time that you could have invested to solve a given problem.

#3 Clarity:

When you come to the conclusion that a task needs to be done you will see the pointlessness of further evaluating the usefulness or non-usefulness of a task. So when you have to face a task that you dislike you could ask yourself the question, “Has this task to be fulfilled?” and when you conclude that the answer is “Yes”, then you know that every further attempt to evaluate the reasons and the “Why’s” is a waste of time.

#4 Why is it important to solve this task?

Questioning and clarifying the importance of a task will finally erase the root cause of every problem-oriented question. By clarifying the reasons why a task needs to be performed we can effectively change our focus from the problem to possible solutions.

#5 Think about the solution:

The final step to profit from solution focused thinking the most is to ask yourself different questions on how you can solve a given task or problem:

• How can I solve this task?
• How can I address this problem?
• What would be the first step to solving this problem?
• What kind of preparations will be necessary for this task?

Why does problem focused thinking decrease motivation?

Just imagine yourself having to study for an upcoming test (whether it is for school or a professional development is unimportant). While you are sitting in front of your table you start thinking about the exam and how much you dislike the whole subject. Questions that address the reason why you have to study for this subject start to arise and will ensure that you lose even the slightest interest in your task. Without being interested and a dozen of different questions that start to arise we finally lack the motivation to study for the exam !

Problem vs. Solution oriented thinking was presented by our Personality Growth Website. What is your preferred way of thinking? We’re excited to hear about your experiences in the comments section below.

About Author

Steve is the founder of Planet of Success , the #1 choice when it comes to motivation, self-growth and empowerment. This world does not need followers. What it needs is people who stand in their own sovereignty. Join us in the quest to live life to the fullest!

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Just saying Problem focused approach wastes time is ridiculous. It depends on what situation you’re in. If you’re preparing for an exam like olympiads, Problem focused approach is Best whereas while in actual exam, a solution focused approach might be better. You’re not going to learn and understand anything unless you ask yourself the questions like Why, What and How. But I can’t expect the same fro someone who has disliked Maths.

Did you read the first part of this? They specifically mentioned that starting with a problem oriented perspective is fine, but to eventually “fight it” by answering those questions so that you can get to a solution oriented perspective. Essentially, the big picture here is to not get stuck in problem orientation — it’s quite simple.

The issue of stress is ignored here. Tolerance for ambiguity is reduced by stress. When stressed, any additional requirement is a “problem.” This starts a downward spiral. A willingness to reduce our personal stress (with good diet, aerobic exercise, adequate sleep, etc.) can allow us to acknowledge our willingness (and culpability) in accepting new challenges, which can then take us away from an “Everything is a problem” attitudes.

Hello Jane, this is an incredibly important remark you make here. Thank you for sharing it. I hadn’t considered it from this perspective, but you are absolutely right.

I hate to be offensive, but I also don’t like to say, “No offense”, so I will tell you something that will probably offend you, Steve. But if you hadn’t considered it from that perspective, then you probably aren’t fully qualified to be writing articles like this. You obviously haven’t studied the full depths and ramifications of the issue.

Furthermore, you are telling people to ignore emotions which are a signal to them that something is wrong. Certainly, people can become TOO overtaken by those emotions, but just ignoring those emotions pushes them aside and suppresses them. Ultimately, it is those reactions and emotions that are the barometer of everything that we do. I’m not saying that there isn’t merit to what you are saying, but putting it in such black and white terms ignores so many factors that people deal with.

Finally, there is a strong value to considering problems, and even dwelling on them. It is a natural psychological process. The “why” is often crucial. It also leads to critical thinking and evaluating. Maybe there is a better process that could be undertaken to do the set of tasks much more efficiently, which leads to innovating thinking. It allows for questioning of morality, efficiency, ramifications and consequences. Even visceral reactions to problems can be an indicator of a deeper problem that needs to be addressed. Shutting any these down can cause numerous problems down the road.

I’m not saying that the article doesn’t provide merit, but the fact that you haven’t brought up many of the innumerable other factors to be considered really makes me think that you shouldn’t be writing articles like this, because you simply have only cursory knowledge of the psychology involved.

I’m sorry if that stings, but I think you may be doing more harm than good by saying these things.

Thanks for sharing your opinion. No offense taken.

Wonderful Steve. I so agree that a person’s success depends on their ability to be solution oriented. I am a follower of Dr. Wayne Dyer, and your philosophy sounds fully compatible.

Thanks Sherwin. I am glad someone agrees.

The only reason one (stakeholder) would recognize a situation and label it as a problem is when it demands a solution. Thus problem and solution co-exist – the latter waiting to be discovered. Difficult for me to understand what a problem oriented approach would be.

“Why should I do this task?” simply means that one is not a stakeholder. If so, the problem simply does not exist!

My intention behind writing this article was to point out that some people only focus on the problem, whereas other people take notice of the problem but more eager to find a solution. The first approach involves complaining, but does not lead anywhere. The second approach is not so prone to complaining, but actively seeks for solutions to the problem.

The key term here is orientation not exclusivity. I consider myself to be a solution-oriented person and also know that it is essential that I define what a problem actually entails before I set about trying to resolve it. Sometimes this process is met with a significant amount of resistance due to the emotional discomfort that can arise during my search to define something. Logic dictates that it is seldom a black and white scenario. Acceptance of a problem can be a bigger challenge than we initially realise. Also over-simplifying issues around problem-solving will not do justice to the sometimes complex nature of any problem and/or solution. I do believe the concept of being solution-oriented is a health directed approach and leaves less room for unhealthy manipulation. That is where I see the value in this kind of orientation. Mental and physical health always come into any equation (yes, I said that) involving problems and solutions that need attention to improve health and well being. Thanks for your thoughts and intentions Steve. I believe you are on the right track.

Thank you Louise for sharing your brilliantly articulated thoughts on this subject. I absolutely agree with you.

I’d like to add a comment as an observer of my own behavior. I notice that I complain more when I’m more physically and mentally fatigued which drains me even more. And like an earlier commenter mentioned stress plays a factor in how we choose to spend our time and what we focus on in our thoughts. All the feel good endorphins and the dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin produced in our brains has a huge effect on how we think. I agree that diet and exercise plays a huge part in how we view the world and the obstacles that are placed in front of us everyday.The more of those chemicals produced the more positive thoughts and the less fatigued you feel. I love this article BTW.

What a clearly written and extremely helpful/useful article! I thank you for it.

You’re welcome. Thanks for your feedback.

The mentality in this article is common in business management etc, but unfortunately, it is not so simple as it would have you believe. The described solution-driven thinking implies falling in line with the current power structure and establishment, and naturally is promoted wide and far.

I consider problem-oriented thinking closely linked with critical thinking, and that we have too little of today. If you don’t ask questions like “what?” and “why?”, and instead simply accept the circumstances you’re in, then you also strip away important aspects of participating in society. Circumstances can and do change, and just accepting them means someone else will change it in your stead.

Sure, sometimes you need to stay focused on solving the task at hand. Knowing the difference I’d argue is part of what critical thinking is about, which the world is in dire need of.

Excellent argumentation. Thanks for your contribution.

problems were not here without any solution. There should always be one answer for it, no matter how big or small the problem is. always think on the positive side and you’ll see the solution is just always in front of you or just within your grasp.

Nice words for to understand about the problems. How to be aware in problems. Thank you

While trying to focus on solutions to a couple of problems currently plaguing my empire, I have no choice but to consider the problems, and considering the problems makes me more and more angry and totally distracts me from finding the solution :-/

Lovely topic I was recently faced with a challenge of getting my little daughter back on track after she suddenly took a 360 degree turn in personality and this was the exact debate the edu psych at school and I were having . Do I molicottle the situation and just over compliment her to improve self esteem or do i use the problem solution way of thinking which I agre with and he disagrees with ,wow tough one but I feel equip a young impressionable mind with so many negative influences in her way ,the best approach as a mom in help in my child succeed in her future is the solution based technique and in order for us to find solutions we need to identify the problem else the word solution lol would never have been invented as an antonym ….hahhah

Very good article. When you linger too long on problem, it makes you stressful whereas solution focused approach brings up your dormant resources. Although the situation is same the way your brain chemistry works is very different with these two different approach.

When presented with a problem my instinct is to find a way to fix it, I’m led to believe this is more a male trait than a female trait.

Males are tunnel vision, females periphery vision.

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How to take a solution-oriented approach to resolving problems

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Employees expect leaders to solve problems both big and small. But a leader’s attention will be focused on issues of significance (financial crises, unexpected mergers, and acquisitions), which means medium-sized problems are often put aside, to return later with a vengeance! As Noble Peace Prize winner and former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger said, “All too frequently a problem evaded is a crisis invited”.

Great leaders don’t play the blame game. Instead they use a “solution-oriented” approach to resolve problems.

They use the why lens. Highly respected leaders only solve problems within their control. Ones connected to their biggest why. They consider problems from a fundamental point of view.

· Is this our problem?

· Why should we solve this problem?

· What happens if we don’t?

· How would the solution contribute to accomplishing our most important goals?

Once they have answers, they explore solutions. Around 2013, Royal Philips in Amsterdam noticed the lighting market was stagnating. CEO Frans van Houten asked those types of questions. Armed with the answers, he concluded it would not make sense for Philips to continue with lighting. Philips now focuses on healthcare technology. By approaching problems through the why lens, van Houten was able to change the direction of the company and keep it operable. A clear benefit of applying solution-oriented problem solving.

They are inspired by problems. Without problems, a business will lose its fire, passion, and dynamism. While many leaders perceive problems as distracters, first-class leaders embrace problems as opportunities to make breakthroughs. Leaders know that if they are unable to solve the problem their competitors will, pushing them out of the market.

Problems fuel great leaders, providing opportunities to learn and grow to the next level. Great leaders don’t say, “Why me?” or “Why now?”. They say, “Try me” or “Let’s make the most of it.”. The greater the problem, the hungrier they are for a solution. Leaders like Richard Branson, Elon Musk, and Bill Gates view problems as golden opportunities to disrupt the market and revolutionize the customer experience.

They openly admit there is a problem. Great leaders acknowledge there is a problem and demonstrate the severity of the problem and the benefit of the solution to stakeholders, partners, and shareholders. By establishing an open environment, great leaders avoid creating silos. This way, the leader not only takes responsibility for making the problem transparent, they explore different dimensions of the problem, consequently benefiting from others’ ideas.

They separate problems from people. Great leaders separate problems from people. They ask questions until they understand the issue. A clear understanding of a problem delivers two-thirds of the solution. When people attribute blame, highly qualified leaders focus on the problem at hand, keeping emotions controlled. By doing so, they can approach the situation fairly and find a suitable solution.

They have a plan. Great leaders do not guess. They identify the core of the problem, forecast scenarios, and produce backup plans before formulating and sharing with stakeholders. This creates the trust and commitment necessary for implementation. They assess actions and adjust whenever necessary. By analyzing, they focus on the easiest implementation route and work around any blocks standing in the way.

Top leaders make sure their organization stands steady when in crisis. They create a thorough problem-solving process. Great leaders avoid panic at all costs. They remain cool and retain a sense of humor. They know if they panic, their team members will lose hope and motivation.

They engage those affected by the problem. Those who have a stake in the problem and the relevant solution often know the most. Solution-oriented leaders listen to the needs and concerns of all involved parties. When respected by the majority, leaders have buy-in and are able to focus on solutions. This caring attitude helps them build great relationships. When the relationship is good, people are prepared to walk that extra mile for their leaders.

Great leaders create an environment where team members can freely share their views without feeling insecure about their position. It is the leader’s responsibility to guarantee freedom to speak up without fear of negative consequences.

They don’t point fingers. Great leaders know that finger pointing does not solve problems. It only adds new ones. It makes employees singled out feel broken, guilty, and belittled. Instead of blaming anyone, the leader starts problem solving by narrowing down the issue. When the problem has been addressed, and potentially solved, they ask their team members what they learned from the experience and how they can improve vulnerable areas.

Now examine how you approach problems. What are the first things you do when you encounter a severe problem? What can you take away from the above to ensure your future approach to problem solving is more solution-oriented?

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What’s the problem a different approach to problem solving.

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J. Todd Phillips , Founder & CEO, Parson Partners.

Surely you have experienced this scenario: An employee walks into a manager’s office and declares, “We have a problem.” The manager, not at all phased by this statement, replies calmly, “Well, I know you have the solution, right?” Everyone knows that they must bring a solution to every problem they identify.

For decades, managers have implored their team members to focus on solutions. Many argue that this empowers employees to think critically, solve problems independently, and communicate good news (a.k.a. “solutions”) not just bad news (a.k.a. “problems”). A quick Google search will produce hundreds of articles on this “solution-oriented” approach, touting it as one of the most effective management tools. These articles consistently repeat the chorus: “Focus on the solution, not the problem.”

However, as a lifelong problem-solver, I believe that taking a “problem-oriented” approach can be far more effective than many of these authors have been willing to admit. Business leaders, in particular, could benefit from being more problem-oriented, and much less solution-oriented.

Just what do I mean by a problem-oriented approach?

Let’s talk about it.

The problem-oriented approach is a different way of thinking. It encourages leaders and teams to examine every possible aspect of any problem they may be facing before hammering out any possible approach to solving that problem. While it can easily be viewed as a time suck, or a costly delay when action is needed, I wager that it is much better to pause to examine a problem than risk failure with solutions adopted in haste.

Here are four steps that could get you to the right solution.

Step One: Get The Facts

This is an examination of what actually happened. Before jumping immediately to asking “what is the solution,” ask:

• Is it really a problem? How big is this problem?

• What actually happened? Who or what was impacted by the problem?

• What are we doing about it right now?

• What risks does the problem pose? What happens if we do nothing?

Once you’ve established the facts and have a legitimate problem, move on to the following steps.

Step Two: Examine Your Environment

Conventional wisdom advises us not to ask why something happened. In contrast, it’s really healthy to ask “why” repeatedly. This is a critical step that will help you get to the root causes of a problem. Go on a broad exploration to find out:

• Why did this happen?

• What conditions made it possible for this to occur?

• What conditions should have been in place?

• How could this have been avoided?

Step Three: Dig Into Your Processes

This step gets into the nitty gritty, the uncomfortable truth, of how you got to the point of having a problem in the first place. Take the time to work your way through:

• How exactly did this happen?

• What is not working?

• At what point did things go astray?

• What could we have done to avoid this?

Step Four: Consider The Human And Organizational Implications

This is perhaps the most critical step because it affects the welfare of your team. Try hard to avoid looking through the lens of assigning blame and ask:

• Who is responsible for the problem?

• Who is accountable for the problem?

• Who will be affected by the problem?

• Who should be informed about the problem?

• Who can assist with solving the problem?

Depending on the size of your organization and the nature of the problem, you might run through these questions with dispatch. Large, systemic problems may require a more significant investment of time. Whatever the circumstances, it is important to flip the paradigm and try the problem-oriented approach.

Once you have worked through these steps, either self-guided or with the help of a consultant, developing a solution—if indeed one is needed—becomes the easy part.

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How to Adopt a Solution-Oriented Mindset

May 18, 2022 8:30:00 AM

"When presented with a problem, you start at the solution and reverse-engineer your way back. You figure out how to get to the solution by any legitimate means necessary ." ~ Christopher Penn

Every business has problems. How do you deal with them? Focusing on the solution seems logical, but in practice, it rarely happens. That's not surprising since a solution-oriented approach means changing our way of thinking. You approach problems differently from conventional methods by starting and acting with the desired goal. In focusing on the way the unfair situation might be, complaining about the disruption, or expressing your dissatisfaction, you worsen it, leading to more problems.

It is crucial to have a problem-solving mindset for any business, especially if you are an HR manager or CEO of a small or medium business. A growth mindset allows the business to stay on track to explore new opportunities. Read on to learn the best ways to develop a solution-oriented mindset.

Understanding the Problem

Any business will encounter problems and make mistakes; how you handle them makes the difference. First, you will look at the existing solution and identify the next closest option.It's crucial not to shy away from challenges.

Understanding the problem and learning to work within it is the only way to thrive in business. Classifying the problem is the first step to problem-solving in business. You set yourself up for success in this challenging environment, which will allow you to identify opportunities. A solution-oriented team works together, finds creative ways to solve the problem, and resolves it quickly. The group addresses challenges rather than avoiding them.

How to Develop a Growth Mindset

Developing a solution-oriented team requires commitment, discipline, and time, while the first step is to allow the team to evolve and motivate them to work together for a solution.

1. Change Your Attitude

Problem-solving mindsets recognize problems as growth opportunities and focus on achieving success by finding solutions. Challenges are unique, and you can influence the situation by looking at it from a new perspective and taking a step back. You can also gain a fresh perspective by brainstorming with others on things you might have missed otherwise. Having a fresh mindset on a problem will allow you to develop a new approach and find a solution.

 Once a problem arises, you need to stay optimistic to find solutions. You must discipline yourself to be hungry for answers. Motivating yourself to overcome the obstacle in front of you requires a paradigm shift. The decision is either to let the problem consume you or to face it head-on and take control with the attitude of a champion.

Take action and monitor your progress after identifying the problem and making a list of all possible solutions. A positive outcome is more likely with more information. Go through all the options, select the best one for the situation, and set measurable objectives.

2. Impactful Leadership

By strengthening employees' decision-making skills and encouraging them to focus on what works and what doesn't, solution-driven leaders improve their ability to resolve inconsistencies. It's your responsibility as a leader to create an environment where your team members solve problems rather than avoid them.

You speak far louder through your actions than through your words. Make sure your team knows you will support each other and work together to find solutions to challenges. A solution-driven organization attracts and retains talent. A mindset that attracts clients, including the best talent, requires a culture that cultivates this mindset throughout the organization.

There are many different leadership styles, but all influential leaders share some common characteristics. These include:

• They have a clear vision and can communicate it effectively. Lead by example. You need to be able to walk the talk and meet high standards yourself.
• They set high standards for others and expect them to meet them. Accountability is key.
• They take responsibility for their own actions and decisions. You need to be accountable for your own actions if you want others to be accountable.
• They're not afraid to take risks. You need to be willing to take risks in order to achieve your goals.
• They're always learning and growing. You need to be constantly learning and growing in order to stay ahead of the curve.

3. Encourage Critical Thinking

Using critical thinking skills to solve problems, you have to analyze the root cause and critically look at them. Without getting overwhelmed by analyzing the root causes and less critical aspects, you can tackle a problem.

You must think beyond your self-imposed limits to achieve innovative solutions that exceed the average ideas' shortlist and challenge yourself to think outside the box. An integrated approach enables you to effectively combine knowledge and experience from different fields. Your solutions make a significant difference using this approach.

A problem analysis sets you up for future success by focusing on long-term solutions. Keep your leadership role in mind. As a team, you should encourage critical thinking, letting them take the lead and provide feedback if necessary.

4. Coach On-the-Go

It will be challenging to create a solution-driven mindset as you build a team and mentor a diverse group of individuals. You are responsible for helping your team understand the problem and develop solutions to overcome it. By providing real-time coaching, your team will be able to address any challenges the organization faces and take a proactive approach to their professional performance.

5. Communicate Openly

You need to create a safe environment for your team members to communicate honestly and transparently if you want them to think critically. Consider everyone's thoughts and suggestions and show you value them by genuinely listening to what they have to say. Give your team the chance to develop a viable solution and test it.

Leading With a Purpose

A solution-driven approach creates a mindset that encourages leaders to develop a team that identifies solutions because they can think critically, communicate openly, and understand how this approach supports the business. Developing a solution-oriented mindset requires discipline, practice, and time. To thrive in your business, You must take a proactive approach and focus your resources on solving problems rather than creating new ones.

DevelopING Solutions

Now that you've transformed your thinking from problem-focused to a growth mindset, you'll need a process for developing solutions. Only by creating a solution-centered plan of action will you be able to achieve your goals. With your mindset upgraded and the problem at hand defined, here are a few steps to get you started:

1. Gather information . Once you've identified the problem, it's time to start gathering information. This can include research, interviews, surveys, and data analysis. Remember that information is cheap. There's a lot of it. And, if you don't have the right information, you're likely to make bad decisions.

3. Brainstorm solutions. Once you have a good understanding of the problem and more information, it's time to start brainstorming possible solutions. Be creative and think outside the box. Begin by asking yourself: What do I want to achieve? What are my goals? Keep in mind that your goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

4. Evaluate solutions. After you've generated a list of options, it's time to evaluate them. Consider factors such as feasibility, cost, and expected outcomes. Do the possible solutions address the root cause of the problem? Which solution is most likely to succeed?

5. Implement a solution. Once you've selected the best solution, it's time to put it into action. Develop a plan and make sure you have the resources you need to succeed. To determine the resources needed, ask yourself: What do I need to make this happen? Who can help me?

6. Monitor and adjust. Even after you've implemented a solution, it's important to monitor the results and make adjustments as needed. Questions to ask at this stage include: Is the solution working? What could be improved? Are there any unforeseen consequences?

A solution-centric mindset is a powerful tool for problem-solving in business. Quite simply, it is a key leadership skill. If you want to be an impactful leader, it's essential to develop this way of thinking.

With a solution-oriented mindset, you'll see problems as opportunities to find creative solutions that make things better. And, by choosing to see problems in a more positive light, you'll be able to communicate a growth mindset to the rest of the organization. So, if you're ready to start on this journey, visit platinum-grp.com to see how an all-in-one HCM solution can provide a compliant, efficient system to maximize the growth of your business and the capacity of your team.

About Platinum Group

Platinum Group is a human capital management resource with solutions to help you streamline operations so you’ll have time to manage your business. For more information about Platinum Group, or to  schedule a demo  of iSolved, please  visit our website.

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Be Solutions Oriented, Not Problems Oriented

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Most people consider themselves to be “victims” of something or the other.

Things happen to them. They can’t do anything about it. Everything is someone else’s fault.

In their mental narrative, they lack control over their own life.

They feel that they’re somehow “broken” and lack the ability to lead a great life.

( I can’t lose weight / I can’t start a side business / I can’t talk to people / I’m socially awkward / I can’t XYZ )

Almost like the world has been conspiring against them to stop them from getting what they want, or that they were born handicapped in some way.

Well, sorry to break it to you: the world is not conspiring against you. You’re not “incapable” of being great.

Your problem is not that you have too many problems that you cannot solve; your problem is that you are a problem-oriented person.

Problem-oriented people look at life and see a series of negative intangibles that they blame for everything that’s wrong with them and their lives.

Their focus is on the problem and the broader array of external factors that contributed to the problem.

They have no orientation towards internal solutions. They don’t want to change their routines to try and improve their lives.

And because they don’t want to change, they ask the world and everyone else to change.

(Fat acceptance/pride etc.)

They become increasingly frustrated as people don’t take them seriously and that further goes to reinforce their mental narrative of victimhood and weakness.

You’ll find these people in all walks of life – always complaining about something or the other but doing nothing to change it.

“I hate my job.” “You keep complaining about your job. Why don’t you find a new one?” “Oh no, I can’t.”

They’ll often have some nonsense excuse for why they can’t implement a solution.

A solutions-oriented person, on the other hand, looks at life and sees a world of possibilities. He notices obstacles on the way, but he positions himself to deal with them.

Instead of complaining and whining about problems, he tries to do whatever he can to solve them. If he can’t solve them, he sidesteps them.

He’s optimistic and positive because, in his worldview, he is in control over himself. If he feels that an aspect of his life needs improvement, he’ll put in the work to turn things around.

Solutions oriented people also look at problems and the reasons why they happened, but their approach is different.

Instead of blaming other people and their circumstances, they do what they can to make sure their problem doesn’t become a recurring theme (i.e., they learn from their mistakes).

If they don’t see a solution, they accept it and find a way to lighten the impact it has on their lives.

Sure, sometimes a solutions-oriented person will complain and vent too, but you’ll rarely see them becoming one of those chronic whiners.

To summarize:

1. Problems oriented people let their circumstances control their lives. Things happen to them. They’re always fighting the world and keep getting beaten down. They end up feeling bitter and stuck.

2. Solutions oriented people control the critical aspects of their lives. You can’t keep them down for long because they’ll find a way to get up again. They’re optimistic and positive.

Okay, Harsh, I’m a problems-oriented person. Now how do I fix this?

You need to change your mental narrative.

Firstly, you need to stop thinking that you’re somehow ‘broken’, that you lack something that other people have.

Other people are not special. They don’t know some secret you don’t.

Most things require effort, not some special talent.

Think of yourself as someone who can achieve ANYTHING when you put your mind to it, not as someone who’s a fragile tool born to be boring and ordinary.

Next, you need to reprogram yourself to think in possibilities rather than impossibilities. Doing this is harder than you think. (We’ve evolved to live in a world of scarcity.)

When you’re faced with a problem – fight the urge to complain about it.

Look for and implement a solution.

Do a 30-day challenge:

For the next 30 days, you’re not going to complain about a single thing. If you want something to be different, you’ll fix it. If you want someone to do something differently, you’ll tell them, but you won’t gossip about them.

You’ll find that as you can’t complain about problems, you’re naturally more motivated to solve them.

You also need to stop gossiping.

“Oh my god XYZ person is like that he did ZYX…”

The thing about gossiping is that it makes you mentally weak.

You shift your focus from yourself to other people. When you gossip about someone, you are no longer the main character of your story.

Your life and narrative become about them.

Remember that the whole exercise is about you being in control of your mental narrative, instead of external factors and other people being in control of you.

If you have a problem with someone, let them know. But never talk behind their back. (It doesn’t do you any good anyway.)

Reframe your mental story from “I’m facing problems” to “I’m solving problems.”

If you’re fat, stop complaining about your weight issues – start solving them. Eat less. Exercise more.

If you think that you live in a corrupt country with no opportunity – don’t complain about your government. Move abroad. If your current circumstances prohibit you from moving, fix them and then move.

To give you an example of solutions-oriented thinking in play: a few years ago, I hurt my back in the gym. I was squatting almost 80kg for reps, and I went down hard.

I couldn’t walk properly for a week.

My back hurt when I bent for over a month.

For most people, an injury like this would completely shatter any resolve they have to exercise. They’ll never show up in the gym again for the rest of their lives.

I went home, I applied a cold pack, and I researched what I needed to do to get back in top shape.

I went swimming for a few months and started doing freehand squats to regain lower back strength and stability.

After two months, I was back in the gym.

I could have cried and bitched and moaned about it (“why me?”) and called myself a victim, but instead, I immediately jumped on to problem-solving mode. I did not let misfortune destroy me.

You could say that I indeed was a victim and would have been much better off had I never been injured in the first place, but you can’t control everything.

Even if you’re not a problem-oriented person, you’ll still have random problems come your way.

The difference is your approach to the situation.

When you find yourself facing randomly occurring problems (or even systemic ones), don’t think of it as a tragedy.

Think of it as a temporary setback and a learning opportunity. Think of it as something that will make you stronger and wiser.

That’s all that most challenges are: learning opportunities.

Remember: the world is full of solutions. Unless you’re dying of cancer, your problems can be solved. Solutions oriented people will always beat problems-oriented people in the long run.

What will your approach to life be?

Hope this helps,

Until next time,

Harsh Strongman

New readers: If you’re interested in getting in control of where your life is heading and improving your mindset, discipline, and self-control, you should check out Live Intentionally: Discipline, Mindset, Direction – A 90 Day Self-Project .

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Knuggets of Knowledge

Knowledge and skills for leadership in the modern tech industry, being problem-oriented vs people-oriented, what’s the difference.

Here’s an interesting leadership thought exercise. Let’s say your team is walking along lengthy paths, and there are a bunch of boulders in the way along the path. Which of these is your initial reaction?

a) Run ahead on the paths and remove all the boulders

b) Make sure each team member has a pickaxe and crowbar, to remove boulders

I’ve found that many top-down management initiatives from leaders fall into one of these two categories. You can be  problem-oriented , in which you are trying to solve problems and remove impediments for people. This usually means streamlining or removing processes or adding new processes. Alternatively, you can be  people-oriented , in which you are trying to hire and grow people who can solve problems on their own.

Both of these approaches have their pros and cons. Being problem-oriented has the benefit of velocity, in that you are enabling people to work faster and focus on their core goals, not on removing boulders. This can also be more scalable. After all, we build roads and highways and bridges for cars to move quickly from one place to another; we don’t expect each car to have its own ability to drive through forests and over rivers. But the challenge is that you will spend more and more of your time running around trying to remove boulders because the boulders will never stop appearing.

As for being people-oriented, it is a very well-known challenge and I have spoken at length in previous blog posts about hiring and training. For this approach to work, you have to truly hire the right people, furnish the right tools (giving them a broom won’t help with boulders), and provide the right training and opportunities for growth.

What’s interesting is these approaches tend to be at odds with one another in organizations. If you are problem-oriented, the expectation is that people are following the process (i.e. stay on the road, don’t drive through the grass), and this can result in people not being able to adjust or tailor approaches for edge cases (what if there’s no road where I want to go?). This also stifles innovation (except for the persons designing the new processes, I suppose). But if you are people-oriented, then this can result in an inability to maintain quality or oversight across the team, and also can result in duplication of effort. (Imagine 3 or 4 trucks driving slowly side by side across a rocky field, instead of having a single bulldozer clear the way so the trucks can all follow a path and get across the field quickly. Now imagine some of those trucks getting stuck, or taking a non-optimal path across the field.)

Success will come with finding a way to utilize both approaches; understanding which situations and problems can be solved by a centralized approach, but still allow people to have freedom of motion to innovate when necessary. Your challenge, as a leader, is to understand and guide the organization through these approaches.

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Problem solving: Helping understand why future orientation regulates emotion and benefits performances

• Published: 18 March 2022
• Volume 42 , pages 17898–17908, ( 2023 )

Cite this article

• Lei Zheng 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ,
• Yidi Chen 1 &
• Yiqun Gan   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-9886-6862 1  

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The present study examined whether future orientation can regulate emotions and benefit performance among employees and students and tested the mediation effect of planning in certain processes. In Study 1, a 3-wave assessment of future orientation, job burnout, and job engagement was conducted with 180 participants. Results showed that future orientation is positively related to job engagement, but negatively related to job burnout. In addition, planning serves as a mediator in the relationship between future orientation and job engagement and between future orientation and job burnout. In Study 2, 193 participants completed scales measuring the effects of future orientation, planning, task completion, and mood. Results showed that planning serves as a mediator in the relationship between future orientation and positive affect, between future orientation and negative affect, and between future orientation and academic performance. This research provides evidence that future orientation prepares individuals to successfully cope with stress through problem-solving strategies. Our findings that future orientation helps people cope with future barriers through planning highlight the importance of future orientation in the improvement of performance for either employees or students.

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Data availability.

The datasets and code used in the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

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This research was funded by a research grant 20BSH139 and 20CSH073 from National Social Science Foundation of China.

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School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences and Beijing Key Laboratory of Behavior and Mental Health, Peking University, 5 Yiheyuan Road, Beijing, 100871, China

Lei Zheng, Yidi Chen & Yiqun Gan

School of Economics and Management, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China

Center for China Social Trust Research, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China

Institute of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China

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Y. Gan and L. Zheng developed the study concept. L. Zheng and Y. Gan contributed to the study design. Data collection were performed by L. Zheng and Y. Chen. Zheng and Y. Chen performed the data analysis and interpretation. L. Zheng and Y. Gan drafted the manuscript, and Y. Chen provided critical revisions. All authors approved the final version of the manuscript for submission.

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Correspondence to Yiqun Gan .

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Zheng, L., Chen, Y. & Gan, Y. Problem solving: Helping understand why future orientation regulates emotion and benefits performances. Curr Psychol 42 , 17898–17908 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-022-02983-6

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Accepted : 02 March 2022

Published : 18 March 2022

Issue Date : July 2023

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-022-02983-6

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