“A problem is a chance for you to do your best.”
Duke Ellington
What if the obstacle isn’t a barrier but an invitation to do your best work? Take Duke Ellington. He didn’t rise to jazz legend status because the path was easy; he got there because he didn’t shy away from the struggles. He leaned in, responding to limitations by pushing his creativity further, adding his own unique rhythm, and filling the room with his best effort every time.
Problems are like that. They call for more from us, often in ways we wouldn’t have anticipated. And every time we’re willing to dig in, to treat the obstacle as a chance to learn and adapt, we build something meaningful. We get better.
When encountering a problem, ask yourself: How can I view this as an opportunity to create value? Instead of looking for the fastest route to “done,” consider what real value could come from giving it your best, right here, right now.
One of my favorite books is The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday. It gives incredible insights into seeing challenges as opportunities to create something better. Give it a read if you’re ready to approach problems as gifts, not roadblocks.
