Problem-Solving does not equal Good Leadership



John C. Maxwell was right when he stated that “the quickest way to gain leadership is by solving problems.” His well-meaning assertion was focused on the dispositions of individuals towards problems; while some folks merely analyse problems and pass blames, some others take up the responsibility of solving them, and hence, become the people’s favourite. That earns for them a considerable measure of influence among people upon which they can build on to establish great leadership.

But truth be told, while leadership is about solving problems, it entails much more than that! Being a problem-solver does not necessarily make one a good leader, however, a good leader is a problem-solver. This implies that good leaders prioritize people ahead of problems in their interest.

Problem-solving helps to earn you influence, but it does not completely sustain that influence. Eventually, people will not care how much problems you solve until they know that you care about them primarily.

You might solve people’s problems in order to take advantage of them. Also, while solving a particular problem, you might create another which might even be worse. So problem-solving is no guarantee of good leadership.

Jesus went to the cross, not because He hated sin, but because He loved man (John 3:16). Good leaders first love people, then use their love for people as motivation to solve the people’s problems. When love is in place, one cannot be indifferent about problems. Love stirs the will and the stirred will conjures a way out.

Besides, leaders understand that the ultimate problem that man yearns desperately to have resolved is the loss of his dignity and pride; many problem-solvers often fiddle with this while solving other problems.

People will naturally be drawn to a problem-solver; his attitude to their followership subsequently determines the quality of his leadership. Real leaders are not so concerned about what they get as what they give to people. They are committed to the well-being and prosperity of the people they lead.

Jesus’ example was that of a self-satisfying sacrifice of himself for the people He loved.

What about you?

Bright Ukwenga
August 4, 2017

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