"Problem Solving" in The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader by John Maxwell

John Maxwell believes that every leader will inevitably face problems because of two reasons: (1) We live in a world that is constantly changing, and (2) we must deal with people on a daily basis. Therefore, effective leaders are really good problem-solvers. Maxwell believes that leaders can improve their problem-solving skills by mastering the following three principles: (1) "Anticipate Problems" (pg.98). Leaders should not expect the path of leadership to be easy; instead, they should expect to encounter road blocks. If leaders expect problems, they will not become disheartened when problems arise. As my former pastor would often say: "Unrealistic expectations create stress." Leaders will be constantly stressed if they naively believe that problems will not arise. (2) "See the Big Picture" (pg.99). Maxwell believes that leaders must guard against becoming inordinately consumed with the details of a problem that they forget the overarching nature of the problem. I believe that Maxwell here is reminding leaders that their role is to lead and not to manage the details. (3) "Handle One Thing at a Time" (pg. 99). Most leaders become overwhelmed when they focus on all of the problems they are required to solve. Maxwell claims that leaders can avoid becoming overwhelmed by prioritizing their problems and then focus on solving these problems one at a time. When leaders devour their problems one bite at a time, they are able to accomplish incredible tasks--like eating an entire elephant. After reading the above principles, how would you rate your problem-solving abilities?