Opportunity > Problem

The words we use matter

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

The words we use matter.

Approaching a challenge as an "opportunity" to explore as opposed to a "problem" to be solved makes a big difference.

When we approach a challenge as an opportunity we open up to all the possibilities out there, we expand our awareness and see things holistically. We notice how things are connected and interdependent. We notice systems, patterns, connections.

When we approach a challenge as a problem to be solved we get fixated on what is right in front of us, narrowing our focus and limiting our awareness. We focus on the negative effects. We see things as singular elements to be changed without understanding the whole picture.

It may not seem like words matter much but try it out next time you approach a challenge and see how choosing the word “opportunity” opens up a world of possibilities.

Choose opportunity!