The two have a symbiotic relationship – neither can survive without the other. Either a plethora of problems or a lack of opportunities could sink a business.
The main difference between these two is one of visibility. A great team of problem solvers is rarely recognized, as a lack of problems can seem “normal” and even make those who solved all the problems seem unnecessary.
In contrast, opportunity creators are celebrated at every possible juncture. A successful sponsorship, contract or campaign is good news for everyone, so of course it should be celebrated. However, this can cause opportunity creators to appear more appreciated (or more valuable) than problems solvers.
They’re not.
Don’t get me wrong. As a purebred problem solver, I don’t want the spotlight. What am I going to say that warrants it? I mean, this isn’t exactly going to set the world on fire:
“Today, our systems are working as expected. We’ve enabled you all to do you work.”
Although new opportunities “sound better” than solved problems, neither one is more valuable than the other. Problem solvers and opportunity creators are joined at the hip; they’ll sink or swim together.
problem solver, difference between problem and opportunity, problem solvers
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