There are several problems we have solved in our life, and over the years we may have developed the ability to face challenges with the right spirit and attitude. We often feel that once we have solved a problem, our work is done. However, we often forget that even though solving a problem is necessary, it is not sufficient. We don’t need to just solve a problem; we need to think three steps ahead.

Taking corrective action takes care of the immediate situation, but it is when we think a bit ahead do we realise what we need to do to prevent the situation from recurring in our life.

Once we overcome a situation, it is human nature to get back into a comfort zone and often drop our guard. For sure we need to drop the pain of the problem, but we must remind ourselves never to drop the learning. Reflecting on our insights, and thinking ahead, helps us chart a better course for ourselves.

Problems have a foundation somewhere. We may feel we have solved a problem, but if we haven’t dealt with the root cause, the problem will resurface somewhere else in our life. A good gardener doesn’t just cut the weeds; he goes the extra step to root them out of his garden.

Problems are pregnant with opportunities. When we are in the midst of going through a situation, it is difficult to see the positive side of a difficult phase of life. It is only post-fact when we are calm and composed and we start thinking ahead, do we start seeing the hidden blessings problems often carry with them.

Challenges are part of life, we cannot stop them from coming. But we can effectively take them in our stride and grow from them if we make sure of a simple fact – we don’t just stop at solving a problem, we learn to think three steps ahead.

(Picture-Lumphini Park, Bangkok)