The Keys to Seeing Solutions at Work (Not Problems!)

Everyone encounters problems in the workplace. Even if you have the best job in the world, there will be times when something goes wrong and you complain. Most problems are either task or people related.
Complaining about these issues doesn’t make them go away; it might
make you feel better for a while but that is all. What it does do is annoy the people around you and make them want to avoid you. The problem is still there and you still have to deal with it.
Problems have to be addressed but often the most difficult problem is addressing the problem. So what can be done?
Positivity
Keeping a positive mindset is the first stage in problem solving but it is only a pre-cursor to positive action. You are in the job because your employer has faith has confidence in your ability to deliver. You are supposed to deal with issues that might arise. This should give you the self-belief that you can handle them. Belief is just the beginning.
Segmentation
All problems can be broken down into component parts, each of which is easier to solve than the main problem itself and will contribute to the solution of the problem as a whole. Sometimes, even this approach can leave you stumped, so always be prepared to get advice and help from your colleagues – the more minds applied to a problem, the more likely it is that one of them will come up with a workable idea.
Approach a colleague who can help, explain the problem, let him or her know your ideas and what support you need and get that all important opinion. Remember that if you have a problem it’s quite likely that there is a knock-on effect that will have some influence on them.
Of course, not all problems are “physical.” You may have an issue with another employee, you may have missed out on a promotion or maybe you aren’t happy with your compensation package. These problems, too, should be addressed as quickly as possible – simmering discontent can lead to unhappiness at work and at home and can be a destructive influence.
Complacency
There is also a risk that positive thinking might turn into complacency. You should understand that it must be accompanied by action. It is not sufficient to adopt an “everything will be all right” attitude, because it won’t be all right unless you turn thought into action.
Irrespective of the problems you have encountered or the type of day you’ve had, never forget that everyone feels down sometimes. You should take heart from the fact that you know your job and from the previous successes you have had.
Every problem is a new challenge and an opportunity to get better at what you do.
Related: How Entrepreneurs Think About Problems

Thomas Oppong is the founder at Alltopstartups, a business resource site for starting and growing small businesses. His latest book, Building Smarter Habits provides actionable steps for building better and smarter career and life habits--things you can try on your journey of change and constant learning.