The Solution Mindset
In life or at work, our attitude is everything.
Our first natural reaction, facing an unexpected setback, is to complain. And that’s fine. Except that in a business, it does not make us look good, because problems are why companies hire people : to solve them.
And so, the Solution Mindset basically means that solving an issue, or helping your team solve it, will get you noticed. Complaining won’t. Worse, it will make you look bad.
The Solution Mindset: every problem creates opportunities.
When facing a set back, simply ask yourself: what is the hidden potential in this annoying situation ? Where is the opportunity?
A client is not happy? Take the blow, use your best listening skills to make sure he feels heard, instead of looking the other way. Then offer him a way to turn frustration into constructive feedback.
The internet is down? Turn your phone into a hotspot and give access to your mates.
No more toilet paper ? You could complain at the Purchase Officer who — again — did not do his job, or you could take it upon yourself to go buy some (and send an expense note. This is not about sacrifice, but action.
When done consistently, people learn that they can rely on you — a nice benefit since much of our professional life relies on perception.
Moreover, a work day feels much nicer when you see things from this angle. Imagine feeling joy at each problem life throws at you ?
