Stop Wasting Efforts on Nonexistent Issues: A Guide to Success
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Chapter 1: Understanding Problematic Thinking
Many businesses face obstacles for a variety of reasons, such as competition, growth challenges, and organizational culture. However, a significant factor in their downfall is the attempt to solve issues that aren't actually present.
In my own experience, I launched a product aimed at an audience of over 20,000, yet there was little to no interest. The email I dispatched to my subscribers resulted in an unprecedented number of unsubscribes. One recipient even replied, "What exactly am I getting out of this?" Seizing the opportunity, I crafted an elaborate response but received no reply—just silence.
You cannot resolve a nonexistent problem—so stop trying! A more effective approach is to engage in conversations with your target audience. Understanding the people you want to serve can significantly simplify the process of providing them with value.
The first video, "You Can't Solve Problems that Don't Exist," explores the pitfalls of addressing imagined issues rather than real needs.
Chapter 2: Real-World Examples of Misplaced Focus
In 2020, during a sod-cutting ceremony, Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo expressed a commitment to construct a cathedral, pledging to use taxpayer funds for this personal vow to God. While this might seem like a noble gesture, the public's awareness of this funding source has sparked discontent, especially given Ghana's severe economic crisis.
As reported by the BBC, inflation reached a staggering 54% in 2022 and remained at 40% into 2023. By September 2022, Ghana's national debt soared to $55 billion, which required over 70% of the government's income just to service. Despite these challenges, the state-funded church construction continued while Ghana sought a $3 billion loan from the IMF, highlighting a disconnect between the government's priorities and the pressing needs of its citizens.
The second video, "Stop Confusing Yourself -- Define The Problem And Solve It!" emphasizes the importance of clearly identifying real problems before proposing solutions.
Section 2.1: Psychological Insights on Problem Identification
Research has demonstrated that our brains can often misidentify problems, a phenomenon known as "problem creep." A 2018 study illustrated this by asking participants to identify threatening faces from a series of images. As the study progressed, they began to mistakenly identify neutral faces as threats due to the limited number of choices presented.
This cognitive bias can affect anyone. Expectations of success can shape your reality in ways that don't accurately reflect the actual situation. When I launched my unsuccessful product, my expectation of financial success blinded me to the fact that I wasn't addressing a real need.
Section 2.2: Resource Misallocation and Its Consequences
Allowing expectations to dictate reality can lead to wasted resources. I was fortunate to hold off on building my product until I had secured at least ten customers. My friend Sachin, on the other hand, believed that his app would be an instant success. He significantly reduced his work hours and invested thousands into development. After a year, when he finally launched, he was met with silence.
His app, vaguely described as "Uber for gamers," failed to resonate with potential users. This experience left him feeling despondent, questioning what he would do next after investing so much time and money.
Section 2.3: The Impact of Human Needs on Problem Creation
The tendency to create solutions for non-existent problems often stems from a deep-seated need for validation. Throughout evolution, being recognized by one's community was crucial for survival. This need manifests in our modern lives; for instance, I often purchased gifts for my father that he never needed, simply to seek his approval.
As I've matured and engaged in more meaningful conversations with him, I've discovered the challenges he faces, including the physical toll of his demanding job. This understanding allowed me to support him better, particularly with property management and his car rental business.
Final Thoughts: The Path to Genuine Solutions
It’s futile to attempt solving problems that aren’t real. If you pursue such an approach, frustration will be your only reward, and your solutions may go unrecognized. For a solution to have value, a corresponding problem must exist.
The key to uncovering genuine issues lies in understanding people. Building relationships and engaging in open conversations will reveal the real challenges they face. By doing so, you enhance your chances of providing meaningful solutions that resonate with their needs.
Thank you for taking the time to read this! Don’t forget to download your free copy of my short e-book, "Don't Just Set Goals, Build Systems."