How to be Solution-Centric

Lead by example to build an unstoppable team and make progress with enthusiasm and ease.

I often work with leaders that are frustrated by working with peers and team members that toss around problems for weeks or even months without a solution. Problems, questions, and requests become open wounds that hold the team or organization back from making progress. They turn into focus points that drain energy from other important projects and real forward progress. People often build workarounds that are Band-aid solutions to larger problems that really need to be solved.

What they are complaining about is lack of a solution-centric mindset. Someone with a solution-centric mindset approaches work with a focus on honing in on solutions and forward progress. They don’t get stuck in setbacks or drama. Instead, they learn from setbacks and move forward. They don’t ignore or push problems aside. Instead, they voice problems with a proposed solution and align the team around a plan of resolution and execution. They make sure they (or someone on the team) close the loop in implementing the solution.

As with any aspect of team culture, the example must be set by the leader. Working with a solution-centric mindset is the responsibility of every leader. Leaders often focus on customer-centricity but don’t realize that solution-centricity should really be the aim…