JOIN THE LIGHT BRIGADE.

Focus on the Solution, Not the Problem: Facing the Two-Headed Dragon of Fear and Inertia

In today's world, it's all too easy for me to get caught up in the cycle of blame and negativity. Problems seem to multiply by the day—whether it's in my personal lives, in my workplace, community, or on a global scale. And with so many challenges, I can be tempting to point the finger and get lost in the drama of what's wrong. But what if I shifted my focus? What if I chose to direct my energy toward the solution, rather than getting bogged down in blaming or fighting?

Why do I blame and fight ? Because I'm lazy (blame) and scared (fight). Wow, now these are two powerful foes, fear and inertia. How can I get out of the corner this two-headed shadowy dragon has painted me into? Let's unpack and explore that together if you shall.

The Urge to Blame

Blame is truly the coward's way out, setting sure path towards victimhood. Man, I hate to be slapped in the face with that right out of the gate. When things go wrong—whether it's a frustrating situation at work, a breakdown in communication with a friend, or the ever-present issues on a societal level—pointing the finger feeds my ego, makes me right and BIG. Pointing the finger keeps me stuck in the problem, stewing in frustration, helplessness and resentment. Bottom line, blame keeps me powerless. The next thing you know I'm a victim and stuck in an unproductive cycle misdirecting my energy that could be used in a positive way towards creating solutions. 

The Power of Focusing on the Solution

Focusing on the solution doesn’t mean ignoring the reality of the problem. It doesn’t mean pretending that things aren’t tough or that there’s no work to be done. It means choosing to direct my energy toward making things better instead of just complaining. Yes, I do need to complain, vent, grieve, quake in my boots – for a minute or two, but then I. Have. To. Get. Up. If I can't get up on my own, I can ask a friend or a professional to give me hand up - nothing wrong with that and in fact can be a very wise and brave action.

Imagine if, instead of complaining about the lack of kindness in the world, I chose to be kind. Instead of criticizing the systems that don't serve me, I created or participated in new systems that worked. Instead of blaming others for the brokenness I see, I focused on becoming the change I want to see. The power of solutions lies in taking action—not just thinking about it, but actively working toward it.

By shifting my focus away from the problem, I take control of my actions, attitudes, and outcomes — and man, it feels whole and empowering! I stop waiting for someone else to fix things and start realizing that I can be part of the solution, no matter how small my contribution may seem.

Stand for Something, Not Against It

The next time I feel the urge to oppose something, I could ask myself: What am I actually standing for? In the grand scheme of things, standing against something is often just a reaction, an emotional response to something that feels wrong or unjust. But standing for something—that's where real power lies.

When I stand for kindness, I actively seek to bring more kindness into the world. When I stand for innovation, I find creative solutions to the problems I encounter. When I stand for growth, I focus on my own development and encourage others to do the same.

In this way, standing for something gives me a purpose, a direction. It provides clarity and helps me channel your energy into constructive actions.

Taking Personal Responsibility

The most transformative thing I can do when faced with problems—whether personal, societal, or global—is to take personal responsibility. This doesn’t mean carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders or pretending that I can solve every issue on my own. It simply means asking myself, “What can I do? How can I show up in this situation in a way that supports a positive outcome?”

If I want to live in a kinder world, be kind. If I want to see more creativity and innovation, I can be creative and think outside the box. If I want to feel more connected to others, I can reach out and be there for them. The solutions are often simpler than I think, but they require me to take action.

As I direct my energy toward being the person I want to be—helpful, humble, kind, and productive—I begin to create the life and the world I envision. I become the solution rather than simply reacting to the problem.

Innovation: The Art of Problem-Solving

One of the most exciting ways to focus on solutions is through innovation. Innovation isn’t just about creating new technology or products—it’s about thinking differently, approaching problems with a fresh perspective, and finding ways to improve things incrementally, no matter how big or small.

The world’s greatest innovators were problem-solvers who didn’t get stuck in the “how bad things are” mindset. Instead, they asked themselves, “How can I make this better?” They saw challenges as opportunities to create, to adapt, and to improve.

You don't have to invent the next big thing to innovate. Every time I find a more efficient way to do something, every time I think outside the box to address a challenge, I am innovating. The more I  direct my energy toward creative solutions, the more I contribute to a world that is constantly evolving and improving.

What Does This Look Like in Action?

  • Be Kind: In moments of frustration or tension, choose kindness. When things aren’t going the way I want, respond with empathy. This doesn’t mean tolerating disrespect or mistreatment—it means showing up with a mindset that seeks to heal rather than hurt.

  • Be Helpful: Instead of complaining about the state of the world, find ways to contribute to the betterment of it. Volunteer, support others, or even just offer a listening ear. Every small action counts.

  • Be Humble: Acknowledge that I don't have all the answers or all of the information. Some of the information is not all of the information. Be open to learning and growing. This humility allows space for listening and participating in a helpful way.

  • Be Productive: Instead of ruminating on what's wrong, focus on what I can do. Start small - even very small – set the bar low enough. Start projects, make things happen, and channel your energy into actions that create the change you want to see.

  • Be the Person I Want to Be: Take responsibility for my own growth. Develop the character traits I admire. Build the life I want, brick by brick, through intentional actions.

  • Be the World I Want to See: By living the values I want to see in the world, I create a ripple effect. Others will be inspired to follow suit, and together, we can create a world that reflects our highest aspirations.

How I choose to respond to problems or issues defines my success and impact. Focusing on solutions, standing for something positive, and taking personal responsibility are not just feel-good mantras—they’re powerful practices that can change the way I interact with the world.

So, next time I find yourself caught up in the problem, I can take a step back and ask: How can I focus on the solution? How can I contribute, create, and improve?

I don’t have to wait for change—I can be the change, one small action at a time; however, I have to ask myself the hard question, "Am I a victim or a hero?" If the answer is the latter, I can escape the imposing doom of the two-headed dragon of fear and inertia. I can come to the realization and say, "Wait. A. Minute. I. Am. Powerful!" If I'm feeling too weak, beat up, or insane, I can make the brave and wise choice of asking for a helping hand. I can express the cry of a true warrior, "I shall not be tricked by the shadowy ego who is desperately trying to hold onto false ground!"  By taking responsible, small steps one day at a time, I can find that the dragon was never that powerful or in fact real.

 

Older Post
Newer Post
Close (esc)

Join the Light Brigade + get 15% OFF!

Connect to stay in touch, be inspired and challenged, and Be A Force for Good.

Age verification

By clicking enter you are verifying that you are old enough to consume alcohol.

Search

Shopping Cart

Your cart is currently empty.
Shop now