Problem-Solving
Every man faces problems. Strong men face them with clarity and courage.
Life doesn’t get easier — but you can get sharper. Whether it’s a financial mess, a relationship rift, or a career roadblock, your ability to stay calm, think clearly, and take action is what sets you apart.
Problem solving isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about being willing to lean in when others lean out. You don’t need perfection. You need a plan
Description
Problem solving is the ability to identify a challenge, break it down, explore options, and take effective action to resolve it.
It’s not about being the smartest guy in the room — it’s about being the one who keeps moving forward, even when things are uncertain
Why It Matters
Life throws challenges at everyone — solving them builds confidence.
It’s key to becoming more independent and resilient.
Strong problem-solvers make better leaders, partners, and fathers.
Avoiding problems leads to stress, stagnation, and missed opportunities
How To Develop This skill
Here are 5 techniques on how to build this skill:
1. Define the Real Problem (Not Just the Symptom) - Ask yourself:
“What’s actually going on here?”
Peel back the layers. Don’t rush to fix what’s on the surface — understand what’s underneath
2. Step Back Emotionally - Take a breath. Create space. Write it down. Talk it out.
Clarity comes when emotion cools and logic steps in
3. Break It Into Smaller Parts - Big problems often feel overwhelming. Break it down:
What do I know? What don’t I know? What’s one piece I can tackle today?
4. Brainstorm Solutions Before Judging Them
Write out 3–5 possible options without overthinking.
Don’t filter — just create.
Then evaluate based on cost, benefit, and alignment with your values
5. Take Imperfect Action - Perfection is the enemy of progress. Pick one step, take it, then adjust as needed.
Progress happens through motion, not overthinking
Case Study
Marcus – Solving the Standoff
Background
Marcus, 38, was stuck in a months-long standoff with his brother over a family business decision. They weren’t speaking. Tension was high.
“It started as a disagreement, but over time, it felt like a wall I couldn’t break through.”
He was stressed, distracted at work, and tired of avoiding the situation — but didn’t know how to move forward
Turning Point
After a coaching session, Marcus wrote this question down:
“What am I actually trying to fix here?”
He realised the problem wasn’t just the disagreement — it was the lack of communication, trust, and unresolved emotions behind it
What Changed
1. He Clarified the Real Issue - It wasn’t just about business logistics — it was about feeling misunderstood and disrespected.
“I was treating symptoms instead of the root.”
2. He Stepped Back Emotionally - He journaled. He cooled off. He role-played the conversation with a friend. He walked into the next interaction with clarity, not heat.
3. He Created Options Instead of Ultimatums - Marcus mapped out 3 potential ways forward — each with pros, cons, and space for dialogue. This helped him approach the conversation with flexibility, not force.
4. He Took Action — Imperfect but Honest - He reached out, scheduled a one-on-one, and laid his cards on the table — with respect and curiosity. They didn’t agree on everything, but they found a third path neither had considered before.
5. He Followed Through with Boundaries and Clarity - He made clear agreements. Documented the decision. And scheduled check-ins. No more assumptions — just action
The Outcome
They rebuilt trust and saved the partnership.
Marcus felt empowered, not drained.
His words:
“The problem didn’t magically disappear — but I stopped running from it and started leading through it.”
“Solving the problem made me stronger. Avoiding it would’ve made me smaller.” – Marcus
Key Takeaway
Problems don’t go away on their own. But they don’t have to destroy you either.
Face them. Break them down. Choose action over avoidance — and grow through the process
Quick Action Steps
Define the core problem in one sentence.
Write down 3 ways to approach it.
Choose one small action to take in the next 24 hours
Call To Action
"Strong men aren’t those without problems. They’re the ones who keep moving forward despite them."
Assessment
How proficient are you with regards
Problem-Solving