Leadership Lessons: Problem Solving Skills

Week Two: Creating the Right Mindset for Problem Solving

“Every problem is a gift. Without them we wouldn’t grow”

– Tony Robbins

Last week we looked at a few examples of different problems. Some are based on our decisions and some completely out of our control. No matter what the problem is that we are faced with, our mindset is the most important factor when problem solving.

One of the biggest tendencies when faced with a problem is to complain about it.

“I am just no good at math”

“I will never get my next karate belt”

“There is no way I can get along with my siblings at home”.

We ALL do it at points in our lives. The first step we need to take is to realize that complaining about a problem will not solve anything! Some people never improve or move past an obstacle in their life because they are always negative. Don’t be that person. Be positive about any and every situation you come across!

Next, realize that every problem, obstacle, or failure is an Opportunity to succeed! I want you to recite this phrase the next time you encounter a problem in your life.

“I am excited and enthusiastic about the opportunities this problem presents!”

Our vocabulary is very important. Remember that word “opportunity”. Just by changing the way you talk and think about a problem can redirect you towards success!

It is really easy to get caught up in all of the bad things, issues, and failures in our life, but we need to be positive. There will always be problems. Accept that. If we change our mindset we can start to enjoy where we are at right now and continue down the road to success overcoming all of the obstacles along the way!

Homework:

This week’s homework is very simple. Pick 3 times during your day to focus you mind by saying the following phrase: “I am excited and enthusiastic about the opportunities of this day!” Write it out and put it beside your bed, on your bathroom mirror, on your fridge or in your school notebook.