The Nature of Problems and Their Solutions

Problems can be divided into the following three categories:

I. It Can Be Your Own Idea

As you become more capable, you might purposefully invite more and more problems into your life. This intentional creation of problems is not necessarily negative; it reflects your desire to challenge yourself and grow. For example, after resolving an initial problem, you might seek out new problems to tackle. This cycle of creating and solving problems is a way to keep pushing your boundaries and enhancing your capabilities. You are the one creating the problem of your choice because you have the ability to solve it. That ability to solve the problem is the driving force that keeps you going. The act of creating problems of different natures is also an ability inherent in all of us.

For instance, it’s not uncommon for people who, after getting married, notice a shift in their spouse’s behavior and wonder, “How did it come to this?” and “When did I make this decision?” They might no longer want to be with their spouse and seek to end their dysfunctional marriage. They first decided to marry that person and now face the problem of not wanting to continue in the marriage. They need a new solution because they created a new problem.

However, when you overcome your problems through the right approach, you start to view them as challenges rather than obstacles. You begin to appreciate the process of overcoming these challenges and see them as opportunities to win. To be a winner, you need an opponent or a challenge. Only when you have an opposition will you experience the satisfaction of victory. This illustrates the fact that every solution to a problem often leads to another problem.

II. An Opposing Idea Against Your Own Idea

Another type of problem occurs when you have an idea that conflicts with someone else’s idea. For instance, if you want to visit San Jose but others don’t, you face two equal and opposing forces. To resolve this, you must either let one idea prevail, such as proceeding with the trip, or drop the idea and not go. When dealing with opposing ideas, indecision often arises. To resolve this, making a clear decision on which idea to prioritize will eliminate the problem of indecision.

III. Two Equal and Opposite Ideas Creating a Problem

In situations where two people or ideas are in direct conflict, defining the problem clearly is essential. Start by identifying the different parts of the problem and analyzing what aspects are within your control and what are not. Determine whose control these aspects fall under and figure out how to manage or regain control. For example, if you’re unhappy with your business, start by defining what you want to achieve and how you can accomplish it. This clarity will help you break down the problem and find solutions more effectively.

Conclusion

Understanding the nature of problems, whether they are self-created, conflicted, or involve opposing forces, helps in navigating and resolving them more effectively. Recognizing these categories allows you to approach challenges with greater clarity and purpose.