Problem-Problems vs Problem-Opportunities
Today I want to share something that can completely change how we see challenges: the difference between a problem-problem and a problem-opportunity.
A problem-problem is exactly what it sounds like: no clear path forward, no resources, and no willingness to change. Think about a client who terminates a contract on the spot. Or a company culture that demands you work nonstop without offering any chance for improvement. That’s a dead end. It drains energy, adds stress, and leaves no room for growth.
But a problem-opportunity is different. It looks like a challenge on the surface, being over capacity, a client pointing out an issue, or a team hitting a bottleneck but there’s a way forward. The client is open to working with you. The team is ready to change. You can streamline with AI, tighten systems, or rally people together. Instead of being stuck, the challenge forces you to innovate and improve.
At LeanTakt, we’ve had plenty of these. When our teams get stretched, it’s not just stress, it’s the push we need to refine processes, eliminate waste, and strengthen personal organization systems. These moments spark innovation because they demand better ways of working.
The danger is treating every challenge like a problem-problem. When that happens, people avoid responsibility, make excuses, or slip into victim mode. But when you reframe tough moments as problem-opportunities, you see them for what they are: catalysts for growth.
The truth is, some of the best progress we make in business and life comes from problem-opportunities. They aren’t fun at the moment, but they sharpen us, refine our systems, and move us forward faster than comfort ever could.
So the next time you’re facing what feels like a setback, ask yourself: is this a problem-problem or a problem-opportunity? Because if it’s the latter, it just might be the best thing that’s ever happened.
On we go.
Key Takeaway
Problem-problems keep you stuck with no way forward, while problem-opportunities push you to innovate, improve, and grow. The key is knowing the difference and leaning into opportunities instead of avoiding them.
If you want to learn more we have:
-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our YouTube channel for more info: (Click here)
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here)
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)
Discover Jason’s Expertise:
Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.
On we go