The Problem With Solutions - S2E12 - Principle Driven Leadership

The managerial motto, “bring me solutions, not problems,” is popular but has potential pitfalls. In this episode, Seth delves into the story of Jameson, a manager known for his adherence to the “solutions, not problems” rule. When his team faced customer complaints, their initial solutions provided temporary relief but failed to address the root causes. A junior developer, Emily, uncovered deeper issues but was dismissed by Jameson for not presenting solutions. Seth highlights how this approach stifles problem identification and growth within the team. He discusses the importance of creating a trusted environment where team members feel comfortable bringing up issues without fear, and how leaders should guide and coach their teams, if they want to create the next generation of leaders.