A wicked problem is one that can’t be solved because as you work with it, it continues to change. It is said that you can’t solve a wicked problem, you just run out of resources. The problem is, we have all been trained to solve problems that are solvable. We are naturally inclined to search for a solution. What happens when we accept that some problems can’t be solved, but that our mindsets around them are what need to be changed?  

Margot Cairnes joins Kelly to explain wicked problems, and how widening our perspectives will make our businesses and lives happier and more prosperous. Margot is an international best-selling author with six books on transformational leadership, working as a coach and advisor to boards and top teams in Europe, Asia, the United States, and Australia. Margot has used her compelling approach to strategy development to help leaders widen and deepen their thinking, develop creativity, effectively problem solve and develop stronger, more robust stakeholder relationships. 

Margot believes “Happy consequences [of a mindset shift] are, people feel happy. They grow as human beings. Their marriages improve. Their health improves. They go out and they work in the community. They just have to open their mind to sustainability.” 

Big Takeaways: 

• Building our capacity to solve wicked problems is often more important than solving the problem itself so that whatever problem turns up, you can work with it better next time. (5:00) 
• Business can make the world a better place. It can also make the world a worse place. We need to develop the skills necessary to make the world a better place. (16:00) 
• We can all have companies filled with love that improve the environment, that improve the community, and help people flourish, it just takes a mindset shift. (25:00) 

Follow Margot on LinkedIn @Margot Cairnes 

Her website is https://margotcairnes.com/ 

Books mentioned: 

Peaceful Chaos by Margot Cairnes

Approaching The Corporate Heart by Margot Cairnes

Skillsbaby.com