To: The Great Leaders Who Have a Passion for Continuous Learning
In his essay, Problems, John C. Maxwell, writes of the "Five Truths Leaders Understand About Problems." He uses as an introduction the example of Charlie Brown of Peanuts fame who always seems to be walking under his self-induced 'lingering raincloud.' While we may all fall prey to these feelings from time-to-time, and find solace in pointing our fingers to the outside as the sources of the problems, Maxwell suggests five truths that effective leaders understand about problems to deal with them effectively:
1. They're unavoidable - Don't shy away from them. Stare them in the face and address them
2. Perspective on the problem, rather than the problem itself, determine success or failure. He quotes Alfred Armand Monapert: "The majority see the obstacles; the few see the objectives; history records the successes of the latter, while oblivion is the reward of the former." Maxwell provides the following views of perspectives:
A Wrong Perspective A Right Perspective
Problems are unsolvable Problems are solvable
Problems are permanent Problems will pass
Problems are not normal Problems are natural
Problems make us bitter Problems make us better
Problems control us Problems challenge us
Problems stop us Problems stretch us
3. There's a big difference between problem spotting and problem solving - it's about taking action to solve the problem that just having an awareness it exists. Always bring a solution to a problem you have raised.
4. The size of the person is more important that the size of the problem - it is the great leader with great passion and commitment who will attack and wrestle with problems that appear insurmountable.
5. Problems, responded to correctly, can propel us forward - Maxwell's words on this are beautiful: "Leaders are not discovered in the limelight; rather they are forged in the darkness under heat and pressure. Leaders gain respect on difficult terrain, after taking a few blows and being shaped by the problems they encounter."
Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote: “Don’t be pushed by your problems. Be lead by your dreams.” Dreams give excitement, enthusiasm and joy to whatever comes your way. Choose a positive perspective on problems… through eyes that see opportunities that will grow you another step closer to being more than you ever dreamed you could be. And have fun doing it.
Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week!!!
Mike