#5 What problem are you going to solve?

So often when we're younger we are asked "What do you want to be when you grow up?" & many people will respond with answers like "Doctor, lawyer, engineer, nurse, priest" These are such rigid terms. I have always struggled to answer that question as although I studied mechanical engineering I never have "felt like an engineer". And now I understand why.

I was always asking the wrong question...

Instead the question that needs to be asked is "What problem are you going to solve?"

First, when you reframe to this question, you begin to think much bigger, more than just your personal gain & success. This shift moves towards a problem-solving mindset. With an engineering background, I like to have a problem (Point A) & a goal (Point Z) because that allows me to work toward something step-by-step (Point B - Point Y). What's fun is that the path to get to the end goal is up to the individual. And everyone's path looks different!

Next, things we see as problems will resonate with us emotionally. Whether it's focusing on improving educational access, reducing climate change, building greater access to mental health programs, developing communities focused on health & wellness, in order for the individual to have the resilience & consistency to work on the problem there has to be emotional ties for it to be long lasting & fulfilling.

Finally, focusing on a societal issue allows you to work on something to contribute to the greater good. Most of us want to make the world a better place then when we leave it. If you focus on a problem you're passionate about, consistently work on improving that problem, & learn more about yourself along the way then there is no doubt that you contributed to the betterment of society in your life.

For me, helping people is the problem I want to pursue. As to in what form & fashion, I'm still figuring it out but I know I'll eventually get there if I'm consistent & intentional.

Instead of chasing money, chase problems you're passionate about solving. The rest will come eventually.