What's Your Problem?

It sounds like a rude question. Certainly, tone of voice matters considerably, especially when the question comes from a leader. Can you remain centered, with the interests of your people at the top of your mind as you ask this important leadership question?

What's your problem.

Is it not the job of a leader to help people to solve problems? To achieve their goals?

A centered leader asks "What's your problem" with the intent of helping. Not that any leader can solve every problem. But given the time, intention, and useful processes any leader can help.

What problem will you help to solve today?

-- Douglas Brent Smith