"The Problem with Saying 'Don’t Bring Me Problems, Bring Me Solutions"

In the realm of leadership mantras, one phrase that often makes the rounds is "Don’t Bring Me Problems, Bring Me Solutions." On the surface, it seems like a call for empowerment, urging employees to be proactive in finding solutions. However, as we delve into the comments and anecdotes surrounding this mantra, a nuanced picture emerges, questioning its impact on organizational culture.

Comments Speak Volumes: Among the most liked comments, one stands out: "I am a fan of 'Bring me your problems, and we solve it together ??'. Empathy, altruism, and alterity are crucial in fostering a collaborative environment. This sentiment reflects the need for leaders to be approachable and open to collaborative problem-solving rather than a strict 'solutions-only' approach.

Another comment shares a real-world experience: "I worked for a company with a leader who did this, and the culture was rough, to say the least. It fostered competition and divisiveness instead of collaboration." This echoes the sentiment that, while encouraging self-sufficiency is crucial, an exclusive focus on solutions might hinder teamwork and create a toxic culture.

The Catchy Trap of Phrasing: The allure of catchy phrases like "Don’t Bring Me Problems, Bring Me Solutions" lies in their simplicity. However, as a communicator, the comment section emphasizes the importance of using more words to get to the heart of the matter. It's not just about bringing solutions; it's about fostering communication on what's working and what's not, encouraging leaders to inject themselves into problem-solving, breaking down silos, and leading across teams.

A Parable on Leadership Wisdom: Reflecting on this dilemma, a master carpenter's parable comes to mind. In the story, the apprentice learns to spot issues early and propose fixes. The master's instinct to scold for finding fault is replaced with a question: "How can we reinforce this to prevent collapse?" Together, they avert disaster. The parable illustrates the wisdom of welcoming problems brought early, highlighting the importance of openness in leadership.

HBR's Call to Retire the Mantra: Harvard Business Review suggests it's time to retire the saying "Don’t bring me problems, bring me solutions." While the advocates believe it increases empowerment, helps employees manage up, and boosts careers, HBR points out the challenges. Not every problem has an easy solution, and some require diverse points of view. Requiring solutions can breed a culture of intimidation, preventing some problems from surfacing until they become crises.

Three Steps to Effective Communication: HBR offers a three-step approach for leaders:

1. Make it Safe: Modify behavior so people aren’t afraid to bring bad news.
2. Require Problem Statements: Train teams to communicate problems by providing facts, examining causes, and describing everyone’s role.
3. Find the Right People: Coach employees on tackling challenges or assign problems to those who can help.

In conclusion, the catchy mantra "Don’t Bring Me Problems, Bring Me Solutions" might need a reevaluation. A more nuanced and collaborative approach to problem-solving, one that values open communication and empathy, could pave the way for a healthier organizational culture. It's not about dismissing solutions but about fostering an environment where problems are addressed collectively, leading to continuous improvement and growth.