Recently, I caught up with several GMs and department heads from international hotel brands in Japan.
We talked about post-pandemic recovery, team morale, and operational challenges — and one theme kept surfacing:
Great leaders aren’t just good at doing.
They’re great at solving — especially solving the real problems.
The Calmness We Admire Comes from Clarity
Over the years, I’ve noticed that those who stay composed under pressure usually have one thing in common:
They can cut through the noise and identify what really needs to be fixed.
It’s Not Always About Effort
I’ve worked long hours on detailed proposals, only to find out the key decision was based on one overlooked page.
I’ve seen teams work hard but miss the point entirely.
Hard work doesn’t always equal effective problem-solving.
The first step isn’t action — it’s awareness.
We must ask:
“Are we solving the right problem?”
Surface vs. Root
There’s a classic business question:
“Does the customer want a drill… or a hole in the wall?”
But if we keep asking “why,” we’ll often discover the real need — and that’s where real problem-solving begins.
The best leaders I’ve worked with don’t just treat symptoms.
They design solutions that last.
From Reaction to Prevention
I’ve seen teams trapped in constant firefighting.
But the strongest leaders build systems that stop problems from recurring.
They ask:
“Why is this happening again?”
“What can we change upstream?”
Like Steve Jobs said:
“Design is how it works.”
And I believe that includes how we solve problems.
Final Thoughts
Throughout my career, one lesson keeps coming back:
The people who grow fastest, lead better, and stay calmer aren’t those with fewer problems — but those who approach them clearly, calmly, and systematically.
“Happy people aren’t those who control everything —
but those who can handle change.”
What about you?
What have you learned about solving problems in your work or leadership journey?
Let’s share and grow together.
Link:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bennyshen_leadership-problemsolving-criticalthinking-activity-7340557144783523840-OdnZ?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAEZBqx4BgKJtBTJISyieeFfdw6hklJInSSk