116: Solve Big Problems – Friday Fundamentals

Published: June 15, 2018, 2 p.m.

Part of our nature as humans is to always be on the look out for problems. From financial losses to physical threats, we’re always alert of problems around us. When we recognize a problem we typically have two options – avoid it or solve it. This logic is how we have survived for millions of years. It’s part of our DNA. People often underestimate what problems they’re capable of solving.  We can have a hard time visualizing how to develop and build solutions to our biggest challenges. We can even have a hard time identifying what our biggest problems are. A few large problems that exist in our society today are: Homelessness Poverty Access to clean water Wide use of clean energy War Terrorism Access to education Some things that things that you may think are problems, but in reality aren’t, include: Picking the newest swanky brunch spot Having an opinion on the latest hit TV show Keeping up with your buddies on the newest video game Setting your fantasy football lineup Making sure you drive the latest model luxury car Everyone solves problems of sorts. The question you have to ask yourself is, “what problems are you solving?”? “The best way to become a billionaire is to help a billion people.” –  Peter Diamandis Who are you helping? What problems are you helping people solve? The bigger the problems you can solve, the more success you’ll be rewarded with. This goes back to thinking big, and following with bigger action. If you can be the solution to a big problem, then you’ll be rewarded accordingly. Sure, you can’t just end world hunger with the snap of your fingers. These are massive world-scale problems. But you can work towards a solution each and every day. You can build systems, processes, and even movements that address these growing concerns. While not  everyone wakes up each day ready to take on the world, there is a problem to solve for each and every one of us. Maybe it’s providing clean, safe, and affordable housing to your local community. Maybe it’s starting an organization to help provide food to the underprivileged, or medical supplies to the sick. Whatever your calling is, do that. Don’t be part of the problem. Be the solution. Don’t sell yourself short on your ability to solve big problems. Not everyone will take on these challenges, which is why it’s up to you to do so. If not, then who else?