Every team faces problems that people would rather avoid: issues that are uncomfortable, politically sensitive, or just plain difficult. These problems often linger, quietly eroding trust, morale, and productivity. While many may choose to look the other way, strong leaders recognize a responsibility to step forward and address them.

Addressing avoided problems takes courage, but it is not about rushing in with criticism or blame. It is about approaching the issue in a constructive way that invites solutions instead of creating defensiveness. This means framing the problem around shared goals, focusing on facts, and separating behaviors from personal attacks.

Leaders who tackle avoided issues model accountability for the entire team. They show that difficult conversations are a normal and necessary part of a healthy workplace. Over time, this creates a culture where challenges are addressed openly instead of whispered about in the background.

Avoiding a problem does not make it go away; it usually allows it to grow. Small tensions can become major conflicts, and minor inefficiencies can turn into costly mistakes. By stepping in early, you prevent bigger issues later and demonstrate a commitment to the team’s success.

The key is to combine courage with empathy. A constructive approach balances honesty with respect, making it more likely that people will engage in finding a solution. This balance helps preserve relationships while still confronting the issue directly.

Leaders who step up when others step back become the steady, trusted presence their teams can rely on. They not only solve problems but also build resilience in their organizations by showing that no issue is too difficult to face together.

Our Core Program helps leaders develop the courage and skills to address tough issues constructively, creating environments where challenges are dealt with promptly and productively.

~by Michelle Cummings, Founder & CEO, Personify Leadership

Tip/Tool for Implementation: Don’t wait for problems to solve themselves. Step in early and address them with respect.

Leaders who address problems others avoid prevent small issues from growing into larger ones. By approaching challenges constructively and respectfully, they model accountability, build trust, and create a culture where open problem-solving is the norm.

Supportive Research: “The Influence of Organizational Virtues on Employees’ Constructive Behavior: The Role of Constructive Responsibility Perception and Proactive Personality” — Journal of Human Resource and Sustainability Studies (2022). by Fuyun Zhu, Ning Yang, & Xiaotun Chen