Slight Change of Focus

Problem-solving is a two-word phrase. When a friend, colleague or team member comes to us for advice, or when we are doing our own problem-solving, we have a tendency to focus on only one half of this two word phrase. Too often we focus on the problem and not the solving.

Focusing on the problem is a backward-looking activity, whereas focusing on the solving is a forward-looking activity. Problems cannot be changed. Solutions can be implemented. We lose energy when we focus on the problem. We gain energy when we focus on the solution. A solution-focus is not ignoring the problem. A solution-focus actually solves the problem rather than talk about the problem. Review the following question pairs and pay attention to mind and body sensations. You will see what I mean.