By Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar | Posted: February 28, 2020

Most people wish for a problem-free life. However, such a life, if it were ever possible, would be dull and boring. As humans we’re shaped by both positive and not-so-positive experiences. Challenging circumstances push people to expand their limits and bring more richness and beauty to the human experience. If one doesn’t have any problems, one is likely to end up becoming a problem for others! It’s better to have a problem than be a problem!

A situation becomes a problem when we perceive a gap between an actual situation and an ideal concept of how we think it should be. Not everything that looks like a problem is a problem. You could either get stuck in a difficult situation or take it as an opportunity to learn and grow in life.

Accept and act

Whenever a problem arises, the general tendency of the mind is to either go into a denial mode or get consumed by it. A problem isn’t going to disappear by denying it nor will it get solved by brooding over it. The first step to effective problem-solving is accepting that the problem has arisen. This recognition enables one to focus on the solution. With the acceptance of the problem comes the ability to respond calmly. Conversely, the inability to accept triggers agitation in the mind, prompting wrong actions that worsen the situation.

“How” focus

Often, people waste too much time trying to find out the “what” and “why” of the problem. This habit of excessive post-mortem isn’t only energy-consuming but also makes the problem look bigger than it actually is. Rather than seeing the problem as it is, one gets overwhelmed in its exaggerated appearance. The wise way is to spend less time and energy on “what” and “why” and focus on “how” to solve the problem.

A new vision in new light

With the right approach and attitude, problems no longer remain problems and solutions start presenting themselves. Problems are an inevitable part of life and your ability to solve them with grace will always be a prized trait in all the roles you play, especially those of leadership. The wise have a different way of looking at problems.

Here are five ways of looking at a problem that can enable you to handle them with a calm mind and feel free:

1. Everything is changing

The realization that everything is changing will save you from getting overpowered by problems. Just observe, your body is constantly changing; so are your feelings, thoughts, opinions, likes, dislikes, and attitude. So are your problems. Know that you’re not going to be stuck with a problem for all of your life. Many problems have come and gone already.

Remind yourself, “this too shall pass.” This intelligence to recognize the changing nature of creation is a sign of maturity.

2. Some things are inevitable, so what?

The second way of looking at a problem is accepting that certain things aren’t going to change. If you expect the weather to become cold during summer, it’s bound to create problems. There are many things in life you have zero control over. You can’t control how other people feel, you can’t control the weather and you can’t force your spouse to change.

The moment you accept the situation as it is, it’s no longer a problem. Learning to accommodate opposites with patience is a precious skill in life. 

3. Roar like a lion

When the above two approaches don’t work, it's time to invoke your inner power and courage. Difficult times can bring out our hidden courage and potential in more ways than one. This valor will keep you afloat in the sea of changing and unchanging events. The feeling,“I have the power to handle it. Come what may, I will face it,” is a powerful booster. When you summon this energy, self-doubt vanishes.

Realize that you’re bigger than the problem. A problem appears too big only when you think you cannot handle it. Look at those who have bigger problems; then yours will appear small.

4. Give it up with faith

Even after your valor has failed you, there’s a way-- offering or surrendering the problem to a higher power. Often we give it up in frustration. Now try giving it up in faith. Surrender is the realization that your effort cannot bring forth all that you want in life. Big or great things cannot always be had by the effort of the small mind alone. Surrender brings up a deep sense of ease, relief, and peace, and gives us immense strength to smile even through difficult times.

When the body, mind, and intellect are tired, you’re unlikely to come up with any solution. That’s why you need to pray, meditate, and move ahead with faith. Faith brings you stability, centeredness, calmness, and love.

5. Celebrate

When you’re consumed by a problem, it’s a good idea to indulge in some celebration. Your life has several dimensions. If you’re facing problems in your professional life, celebrate the positives in your personal life and vice versa. When you put the problem out of your mind and celebrate, solutions emerge with time. 

Problems and challenges add charm to life and bring the best out of you. Learn from them and grow bigger than them.