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As entrepreneurs, we’re conditioned to believe that success is synonymous with growth—more clients, more revenue, more projects. But this cultural obsession with “more” often leads to unintended consequences: burnout, financial strain, and the sinking feeling that no matter how much we achieve, it’s never enough.
Entrepreneurship demands everything—your time, energy, and focus. The constant push to do more and achieve more can easily pull you away from what truly matters. The Solvable Problem™, a framework designed to help you construct a system to achieve your goals — both financial and personal — challenges this mindset. It shifts the focus from “more” to “closer,” encouraging entrepreneurs to align their actions with their unique goals and values.
The Trap of ‘More’
The pursuit of “more” isn’t inherently bad, but it becomes a trap when growth isn’t aligned with your priorities. Psychologists refer to this phenomenon as the "hedonic treadmill," where achievements quickly lose their luster, and we find ourselves chasing the next big thing, perpetually dissatisfied.
For entrepreneurs, this might mean taking on projects that stretch resources thin or scaling too quickly without a clear strategy. According to a recent survey by Small Business Trends, nearly 70% of small business owners reported that rapid growth led to increased stress and operational challenges.
The Solvable Problem™ framework emphasizes that without clarity, growth for the sake of growth becomes a hollow endeavor. Entrepreneurs often focus on maximizing metrics like revenue or client acquisition, assuming these translate to success. But what if those metrics don’t bring you closer to your personal and financial goals?
From ‘More’ to ‘Closer’
The Solvable Problem™ reframes how we think about success. Rather than chasing arbitrary growth metrics, it asks: “What actions bring me closer to my goals?” This shift in perspective is echoed by experts in the field of entrepreneurship and work-life balance.
Dr. Barry Schwartz, renowned psychologist and author of The Paradox of Choice, has studied how excessive choices can overwhelm decision-making processes. “When people have no clear priorities, they tend to default to the idea that more is better,” Schwartz explains. “But more options often lead to more anxiety and dissatisfaction, not fulfillment.”
Applying this concept to business, Schwartz’s insights align with The Solvable Problem™ framework. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to focus not on endless expansion but on making deliberate choices that align with their ultimate vision of success. For example, instead of scaling a business for the sake of growth, they might prioritize steady profitability that supports their preferred lifestyle.
How to Prioritize ‘Closer’ Over ‘More’
To break free from the “more” trap and align your efforts with meaningful outcomes, consider these strategies:
1. Reevaluate Your Goals Regularly
Set aside time each quarter to revisit your core and preference-based priorities. Are your current efforts moving you closer to these goals, or are they simply adding noise?
2. Focus on High-Impact Activities
Not all actions are created equal. Use the 80/20 rule to identify tasks and projects that drive the majority of your results. Eliminate or delegate low-impact activities to free up time for what truly matters.
3. Embrace Simplicity
Entrepreneurs often equate complexity with success, but simplicity can be more powerful. Streamline your operations, simplify your offerings, and focus on delivering exceptional value in a few key areas.
4. Measure Success by Alignment, Not Volume
Redefine your metrics for success. Instead of aiming for arbitrary revenue milestones, measure progress by how aligned your business is with your Solvable Problem™. Are you achieving financial stability, reducing stress, or creating more time for family?
5. Learn to Say No
Every “yes” to a new opportunity is a “no” to something else. Practice discerning decision-making by evaluating whether each opportunity aligns with your Solvable Problem™.
Conclusion
The pursuit of “more” often feels like the default path for entrepreneurs, but it’s not the only—or even the best—path. By shifting your focus to “closer,” you can create a business and life that align with your unique goals and values. This approach fosters clarity, reduces stress, and leads to sustainable success.
Ready to trade the endless chase for a roadmap to clarity and alignment? Learn more about The Solvable Problem™ framework by ordering the book today, and start your journey toward achieving meaningful success.
To learn more about The Solvable Problem™ framework, order the book today and take the first step toward achieving your goals with certainty.
Sources
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