The Problem With Problems

"A problem is half-solved if properly stated" - Charles Kettering

Here's what I've noticed working with real estate investors: most are solving the wrong problems.

An investor tells me they need more leads, but they're not converting the leads they have.   Another wants to launch Facebook ads when their direct mail campaign is already working but could be optimized. A third insists they need an acquisition manager when what they really need is an assistant to handle their current deal flow.

These aren't isolated cases. Smart, successful people regularly lose sight of what's actually holding them back. The real problem? They're working on surface-level issues instead of root causes.

This creates the meta-problem of solving the wrong problem. And it's costing you money.

Why Your Decision-Making Matters Most

Your ability to identify and solve the right problems is your most valuable business asset. Better problem-solving leads to better decisions, which leads to more profit. It's that simple.

But here's the challenge: entrepreneurs are wired to take action. When something isn't working, we want to fix it fast. This action bias often leads us to jump on the first solution we see rather than stepping back to understand what we're actually trying to solve.

The 5 Reasons You're Solving the Wrong Problems

1. Vague Problem Definition

Most problems are poorly defined, which makes them impossible to solve effectively. Every decision should be filtered through a clear problem statement.

Instead of: "I need more leads."

Try this: "To hit my $30,000 monthly profit target, I need to increase lead flow by 20% based on my current conversion rate and average deal size. What's the most efficient and cost-effective way to do this with my current resources?"

See the difference? The second version gives you a roadmap.

2. Ignoring What's Already Working

When problems arise, we often chase new solutions instead of optimizing what's already producing results. Before adding something new, ask: "How can I improve what's already working?"

3. No Decision-Making Framework

Inconsistent methods produce inconsistent results. Just like you have SOPs for your team's tasks, you need a systematic approach to problem-solving. Without a framework, you're making decisions based on mood, urgency, or whoever spoke to you last.

4. Emotional Decision-Making

Stress and frustration can hijack rational thinking. When you're worried about cash flow or a deal falling through, it's easy to grab the first solution that promises relief. Learn to pause between feeling the pressure and taking action.

5. Information Overload

You're bombarded with advice, strategies, and "must-do" tactics every day. Without clear filters, it's easy to chase shiny objects or get convinced by the latest marketing message. Focus only on information that directly relates to your current priorities.