Problem Solving Ability

Definition: Anticipating, analyzing, diagnosing, and resolving problems.

Leaders with an aptitude for problem-solving have the ability to analyze, diagnose and deal with problems effectively. Whether the problem is linear and “tame,” or nonlinear and “wicked,” adept problem solvers have a natural propensity to discover and help lead others to solutions. The leaders of tomorrow must learn to be collaborative problem-solving facilitators, instead of solitary master problem-solvers. Problem-solving ability is a multi-faceted competency that uses other skills discussed throughout the Leaders Are Clear Thinkers section, including conceptual thinking, planning and organization, and creativity. In this section you’ll discover resources and activities to sharpen your problem-solving skills.

Join our community to learn more about problem-solving skills, and to access resources and activities to help you along the way. 

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The Power of DISC Language

Debbie Cronin is an administrative manager responsible for directing a busy 30-person department at St. Peter’s Health, where she works with a diverse team of

5 Things You Need to do to be Successful at Just About Anything

By Dave Clark • 7 min read

Like the elusive fountain of youth, people are constantly looking for the magic recipe or the secret sauce to become successful.

Diving Into Solving Wicked Messes (Problem Solving Series, Ep. 3)

• 17 min

Today host Dale Dixon and executive advisor Ron Price continue their discussion of problem solving by diving straight into wicked messes.

Finding the Seed of Benefit in Every Problem (Problem Solving Series, Episode 2)

• 21 min

Host Dale Dixon and Executive Coach Ron Price continue their conversation around Problem Solving for leaders.

Problem Solving (Series Episode 1)

• 15 min

Host Dale Dixon and and Leadership Advisor Ron Price discuss a skill that impacts all of us: Problem Solving.

Problem Solving: Evaluating All Angles of an Issue

Leaders with an aptitude for problem-solving have the ability to analyze, diagnose and deal with problems effectively.

Problem Solving: Thinking With the End in Mind

In this short video, TCL Faculty Member, Wade Johnson gives you reasons that good Problem Solving skills can help organizations move forward and actions to improve this leadership skill on a day-to-day basis.

Is Your Idea Good Enough?

By Dr. Evans Baiya

You have an idea to solve a problem or opportunity, whether it be a new process for your department or even a new business idea.

What Are You Compromising?

• 13 min

Our guest is Chris Steely, Founder and Managing Director of GPS Business Group. Chris is a highly decorated Marine Corps logistics officer, and a national collegiate rowing champion, gold medalist and coach.

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Ways to Deal with a Bad Boss

By Whit Mitchell • 2 min read

Most of us have had an experience with a bad boss at some point in our careers, or know someone who has. Bad bosses can seem more common because they tend to st

The Top 3 Causes of Conflict in Family Business, and How to Begin to Diffuse It

By Andy Johnson • 4 min read

My first career was in architecture. My father was an architect and it came naturally to me as well. Right out of college, I took a job at a local firm that s

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Fear Not

By Whit Mitchell • 3 min read

A number of years ago my son tried out for the local high school lacrosse team as a freshman. He had played soccer and hockey and thought lacrosse would be a go