Life presents us with numerous opportunities, some of which may initially appear as problems depending on our perspectives. How we perceive issues is a reflection of who we are. Those who constantly complain about problems are revealing their own attitudes, not necessarily the nature of the problems themselves.
There are two categories of people when it comes to complaints. The first category consists of those who complain without taking any action; they are merely talkers. The second category includes those who take action after complaining; they walk their talk.
Our success in life is directly related to how we react to what happens to us. Simply complaining about things that make us uncomfortable won’t change anything. Life improves when we recognize opportunities and leverage them to our advantage. Utilizing opportunities is not just a good option; it is the best path to securing a successful future.
If you want to join the second category of people who take action after complaining, then you must embrace the following principles:
**Every Problem Is an Opportunity in Disguise**
To turn complaints into opportunities, you must view problems as stepping stones instead of roadblocks. This mindset is common among successful people. Successful individuals are not extraordinary; they are people who see opportunities in the daily problems that others complain about. Every problem contains a solution, and every solution awaits someone to take charge.
In one of his Facebook messages, Dr. Mensa Otabil wrote, “FOCUS MAGNIFIES. What you focus on grows bigger and bigger. Losers focus on problems; winners focus on possibilities.” How true!
**Be a Solution Seeker**
In an article by Daniel Decker titled “14 Ways to Expand Your Influence,” Decker writes, “Don’t sit around complaining about what doesn’t work or about all the problems around you. Instead, seek solutions. People are attracted to solution seekers, and by being one, you will help influence others towards a new perspective.” Remember, people sympathize with unsuccessful individuals, but they celebrate those who succeed.
Solution seekers understand ‘the power of one’. Their mantra is: one can make a difference. Confucius, the great Chinese philosopher, said, “It is better to light one small candle than to curse the darkness.”
**Change Your Perspective in Life**
Someone once said that the way you see problems is the problem. That is why two people can see the same thing but have different interpretations. What do you see when you look at the pressing issues around you? Do you see problems or opportunities?
If you don’t like what you see, change your attitude. Our attitudes towards life’s issues can make or break us. Develop a positive attitude, and it will in turn build you.
**Take Action**
Consider the story of Zoomlion Company Ltd., which was started in Ghana. The founders saw what others saw and complained about the same issues. However, they seized the opportunity in waste management in Ghana.
What led to the establishment of Zoomlion Company Ltd., now a rapidly growing multinational company, was the decision to take action beyond mere complaints.
Today, it is the leading waste management company in Ghana and other African countries. Take action on the things that you believe are not going well!
What have you learnt to help you focus on opportunities rather than problems? Share your thoughts.
Inspiring Net 