Stop Fixing Problems and Start Building on What Works
Do you sometimes feel like the ox in the picture? Tangled up trying to solve one problem only to find yourself dealing with yet another problem to solve. As a small business owner, you've likely spent much of your time solving problems. Whether it's dealing with customer complaints, fixing operational issues, or addressing challenges with employees. Problem-solving has become second nature.
What if this constant cycle of fixing problems is actually holding you back from the growth you desire?
Instead of focusing on what’s broken, what if you could shift your mindset to focus on what’s working and build on those successes?
The Downside of Constant Problem-Solving
It’s easy to get stuck in the pattern of reacting to problems. When we see issues arise, our instinct is to fix them — and quickly. However, this reactive approach, while necessary at times, can leave you feeling drained, stressed, and stuck in a loop of constantly “putting out fires.”
This approach also tends to focus on what’s wrong, which can often result in diminishing returns and even burnout. In the long run, constantly trying to “fix” things keeps you in a state of survival mode rather than growth mode.
Instead of always focusing on what needs to be fixed, it’s time to step back and ask yourself: When have things been at their best in my business?
That’s where the power of appreciative inquiry comes in — a mindset shift that’s not about fixing problems, but about amplifying your strengths.
What’s Appreciative Inquiry?
At the heart of appreciative inquiry is a powerful principle: Focus on what works. Rather than starting with what’s wrong or broken, appreciative inquiry focuses on identifying and amplifying the moments, actions, and systems that are already delivering success or about considering what you want the future state to look like.
It’s about cultivating a positive revolution in your business. Instead of just addressing deficits, you are intentionally building on your existing strengths. This isn’t just a feel-good exercise; it’s a results-driven approach that transforms your business.
By adopting an appreciative mindset, you’re inviting a new energy into your business that is both positive and growth-focused. This shift helps you become more proactive and strategic, rather than reactive and overwhelmed.
Why Focusing on What Works Will Benefit Your Business
Focusing on strengths, rather than problems, leads to a more energized, confident, and forward-thinking business. Let’s break down why this approach works:
1. It Unlocks Energy
Constantly fixing what’s broken can be mentally and physically exhausting. Appreciative inquiry helps you to harness the energy of success rather than constantly dealing with setbacks. When you focus on what’s working, your business has a natural positive momentum that propels you forward.
This shift is not just about solving problems; it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels energized by what’s going right and what can be expanded upon.
2. It Builds Clarity
When you focus on your successes, you begin to see the patterns of excellence in your business. Maybe you have a system that consistently attracts great clients, or your team has a communication style that fosters collaboration. Maybe your marketing campaigns are particularly effective in one area.
By diving into these successes, you start identifying core strengths and unique capabilities that can be leveraged in new ways. This clarity is essential for making decisions that align with your values and vision.
3. It Encourages Proactive Action
This method is not just about reflecting on success; it’s about moving forward. By focusing on what works, you can intentionally amplify your strengths and build on them. This leads to proactive strategy rather than reactive problem-solving.
Rather than waiting for issues to arise, you’ll begin to shape your business from a position of empowerment, making strategic decisions that align with your best capabilities and the value you want to create.
4. It Builds Confidence
As a small business owner, confidence is key. Appreciative inquiry shifts your focus to what’s already working, reinforcing your belief in your abilities, systems, and people. This focus on success gives you the confidence to take bigger risks, try new things, and invest in areas that will yield long-term rewards.
5. It Fosters Innovation and Creativity
Focusing on what works doesn’t mean staying stagnant; it sparks new ideas. When you recognize your strengths, you’re empowered to expand them creatively, explore new opportunities, and innovate. It’s not just about refining what you’re doing — it’s about building on those moments that have already shown promise.
How to Make the Shift from Fixing Problems to Building on Success
If you’re ready to stop endlessly fixing problems and start growing from your strengths, here’s how to make the shift:
Ask Strength-Based Questions
Instead of asking “What’s wrong?”, start asking:What moments in our business have felt most energizing?
What’s working well that we can build on?
When have we received positive feedback from clients?
What actions have led to our best results?
Identify Core Strengths
Identify 3–5 things that are currently working well in your business. This could include high customer satisfaction, strong team collaboration, efficient systems, or a successful marketing strategy. These strengths form the foundation for your growth.Build on These Strengths
Now that you’ve identified what’s working, ask:How can we build more of this?
How can we optimize these strengths?
What actions can we take to expand this success?
Celebrate Your Wins
Celebrate the positive moments and progress, even the small ones. This reinforces a positive culture within your business and reminds you that success is already happening. Acknowledging your wins creates a cycle of positive reinforcement, which fuels more growth.Engage Your Team in the Process
If you have a team, involve them in the process. Ask for their input on what’s working well and what they think could be enhanced. This shared sense of ownership and recognition boosts morale and commitment to future successes.
Conclusion: Stop Fixing Problems, Start Building on Strengths
Focusing on fixing problems is often reactive and draining. By shifting your approach to focusing on what’s working, you create a foundation for proactive growth. This shift, rooted in appreciative inquiry principles, leads to greater energy, clarity, and sustainable business growth.
As a small business owner, you don’t need to fix everything. You already have strengths that are worth amplifying. By recognizing those strengths, you can propel your business toward a more positive, profitable, and sustainable future.