It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of losing focus on the actual problem you’re trying to solve in favor of a specific solution. Drawing from his extensive experience, Seth emphasizes the importance of recognizing when one's commitment to a solution can obscure the real issue at hand. He shares the compelling story of Anissa, a Senior Manager in a consumer packaged goods firm, who becomes fixated on launching a new healthy snack product to revive her declining portfolio. Despite mounting evidence suggesting a shift in consumer preferences, Anissa's determination to make her solution work leads to further setbacks.

Seth explains how this phenomenon, known as the Sunk Cost Fallacy, can trap leaders into following a failing path due to prior investments of time, effort, and resources. He discusses the importance of facing reality, embracing conflict, and maintaining flexibility to adapt to unforeseen changes. By sharing both professional and personal anecdotes, Seth illustrates the broader implications of solution fixation and offers practical advice for fostering a culture of problem resolution. Listeners are encouraged to evaluate their current challenges, reassess their solutions, and remain open to alternative approaches to achieve their desired outcomes.