The dictionary says that a "problem" is a question, especially a difficult question; a matter of doubt or difficulty. As I read the definition of "problem," I'm certain the dictionary, as far as identification is concerned, is correct. However, I much prefer to think of a problem as an opportunity. Obviously, this is not true in 100% of the cases, but the reality is, most opportunities would not come if there were no problems.
If there were no desire or need to communicate with someone else, there would be no telephones or Internet communications systems today and millions of people would not have jobs. If there were no need or desire to visit our distant friends and relatives, there would be no need for highways, service stations, automobiles, manufacturing plants and, consequently, millions more jobs would not be necessary. Even in the case of illness and disease, were there none, millions of health care workers would not have jobs. Perhaps of more significance, if those diseases and illnesses did not exist, there would be no research and development, which goes on constantly as man continues to search for solutions to problems. If all of us were born knowing everything we needed to know, the millions of books and educators which teach people to read would have no purpose or profession. From a personal point of view,if there were no need for training, motivation and encouragement, I would be in another profession.
What I'm saying is that if we will look at whatever problem we have, or someone else has, and ask ourselves what opportunity the problem offers, we will have a better chance of solving our problem and perhaps making a career out of solving other people's problems. I believe Benjamin Franklin would have called that "self-reliance," and that is certainly something we need more of today. Think about it. Look at every problem as an opportunity and I'll SEE YOU AT THE TOP!
Zig Ziglar is known as America’s Motivator. He authored 33 books and produced numerous training programs. He will be remembered as a man who lived out his faith daily