Success Is a Problem—Literally

Why Great Leaders Embrace the Struggle

Yet it is in this whole process of meeting and solving problems that life has its meaning.  Problems are the cutting edge that distinguish between success and failure.  Problems call forth our courage and our wisdom; indeed, they create our courage and wisdom.  It is only because of problems that we grow mentally and spiritually. 
M. SCOTT PECK, MD

If you’re a leader who dreams of a smooth, problem-free path to success, I have some news for you: That’s not leadership—that’s retirement.  And even then, I hear golf scores can be a real problem.
 
The reality?  Success isn’t found in avoiding problems. It’s forged in facing them head-on.  M. Scott Peck, MD, put it perfectly:  "Problems call forth our courage and our wisdom; indeed, they create our courage and wisdom."  If that’s the case, then congratulations!  Every issue you’re dealing with right now is a leadership gym, building the mental and emotional muscles you need to thrive.
 
The Myth of the Easy Path
Too often, leaders fall into the trap of thinking that if they just work hard enough, plan well enough, or hire the right people, the problems will disappear.  But leadership isn’t about eliminating problems—it’s about getting better at solving them.  Rather than wishing for fewer problems; the best leaders level up their ability to tackle them.
 
Think of the leaders you admire.  Are they the ones who had everything handed to them?  Or are they the ones who faced challenges, pivoted when necessary, and turned obstacles into stepping stones?  The difference between mediocre leadership and great leadership isn’t the absence of difficulties—it’s the attitude toward them.
 
Problems Are the Curriculum of Leadership
Students and teachers in Texas, my wife and boys included, are gearing up for the annual STAAR test.  Imagine a school where students never had to solve a single problem.  No math equations, no science experiments, no history essays to analyze.  Would you expect those students to be prepared for real life?  Of course not.  And yet, we sometimes expect leadership to be different.  We wish for smooth sailing, not realizing that the very waves we’re navigating are shaping us into stronger captains.
 
Problems are the curriculum of leadership.  Every crisis is a case study.  Every tough conversation is a lesson in emotional intelligence.  Every unexpected setback is an advanced course in resilience.  And just like in school, growth isn’t optional—it’s required.
 
From Frustration to Fuel
Let’s be honest: Problems can be frustrating.  But what if you shifted your mindset?  Instead of seeing problems as interruptions, see them as invitations.  Each one is an opportunity to refine your skills, deepen your wisdom, and lead with greater impact.

Here’s how:

1. Reframe the Challenge – Instead of thinking, “Why is this happening to me?” try asking, “What is this trying to teach me?”
   
2. Lean into Your Why - Remind yourself why you're a leader; why you get up each day; of the positive difference you're trying to make in the world.
3. Lean into Your Values - Who do you really want to be?  How are your personal core values going to guide you through this problem or challenge?
4. Embrace the Process – Success is not the absence of problems but the mastery of problem-solving—and if you don't have a process, find or develop an effective problem-solving process that works for you and gets you better outcomes.
5. Seek Growth, Not Comfort – The best leaders aren’t comfortable; they’re constantly evolving—and true growth and development means facing issues and challenges and getting outside your comfort zone.  It might even mean seeking the input of others. That could even be a leadership development expert and coach.  Hint. Hint.

The Leadership Legacy
 Leaders who make the biggest impact are those who confront challenges with courage, creativity, and a touch of humor.  They don’t shrink from problems; they rise to meet them. 

So the next time you find yourself knee-deep in a leadership mess, take a deep breath, crack a smile, and remember: Success is a problem.  And that’s exactly why you’re the right leader to solve it.

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Have an amazing journey today!

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Alan Mikolaj is a seasoned coach and leadership development consultant with nearly 20 years of experience.  He is passionate about helping leaders transform their leadership, their teams, and their organizations.  He has an impactful, professional approach driven by a passion for meaning and purpose, a growth mindset, and a commitment to excellence and service in order to drive change and results.

Alan holds his Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology and Associate Certified Coach credential with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and maintains their ethics and standards of behavior, including the standards regarding confidentiality.  You can learn more about them on the ICF website.

Transformational change starts with a conversation!
Schedule your free, one-hour session by clicking here: Discovery Conversation with Alan
Or call or email: Contact Page

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