Turn Problems into Op-port-unities!

Problems come in all sizes. Some are simple matters. Need a better car, but don’t know where to start? There are reports, recommendations, and even bankers to help with that. Stuck on a work problem or homework set? Supervisors, tutors, and mentors can come to the rescue. But what about the problems that overwhelm with more doubts, issues, and downward spirals?

The problem with these problems is that they contain problems! Look at the small word within. There’s a great insight! Problems rob! They take valuables, like our energy and hope. Think about any of your troubles and you’ll lose peace, optimism, joy. Worse, good thinking and actions are lost as well. Then, solutions are hidden from view.

But, with a simple shift of language, you can draw aside that curtain. Label your issue differently: call it an opportunity. Before you dismiss this idea, look at the small word within: opportunity. What happens to a ship in port? It’s safe. It gets refueled, repaired, refurbished, restocked. It’s where new journeys are charted.

So, saying “this is an opportunity” can lead to just the right questions – those reporter, 5 W’s plus how queries. Start simply. When and where is the issue? What’s the problem? Who can help? Then move to complexities like why is this happening or how can I move forward?

From there, it’s a clear path to “what do I need”? The classic model, Maslow’s hierarchy, gives us a very useful starting point: are basic physical, safety, and social needs deficient? Or, is it time to grow and learn?

Do take care, however! If any question leads to ruminating about more problems, it’s not an opportunity! Abandon it at once! Instead, use only the queries that lead to a better place, the ones that change the robbers to ports of opportunity!

Then, in the safety of your imagination, dream up solutions, play them out, repair or reject them without loss or judgment for yourself or others. It’s the protected port in the storm where opportunity options are yours to create.