David Jenyns argues problems are essential for growth. In 24 months managing 105 companies, some shuttered for a year, he learned that challenges force you to develop skills and take responsibility for others' emotional states.
Chapters
And to grow, you got to face challenges. And I think the biggest problem most people have is they think they shouldn't have problems. You know, it's like problems are a sign of life. Problems are what make you grow. I'd rather call it a challenge. I'd rather look as a challenge and take it on as a challenge. But you and I both know I have grown so much in the last 24 months, taking 105 companies, some of which were literally shut down for 12 months, keeping them alive, not letting go of my employees, figure a way to turn around, figure out how to adapt. I developed more skill and ability to help other people because I had to manage my own state. Unbelievably so I had to help other people manage their state. So without the challenge, would I grow so much? Probably not.