when problem language is the problem

Written By Jena Kinney

A few weeks ago, a client shared his frustration: “I couldn’t finish the report because the system didn’t have the right information.”

It’s a common trap, and it is problem language. It sounds like:

  • “I can’t…”

  • “The system won’t…”

  • “They didn’t…”

Problem language might be true, and it might even feel justified. And it rarely moves things forward.

I asked him: “How could you say that in a way that makes it easier for your leader to help you, or to trust you with more responsibility?”

Here’s the reframe:

“I’m having challenges completing the report because the data wasn’t available in the system. I’ve identified what’s missing and reached out to IT for a workaround. If that doesn’t come through by EOD, I have a plan to fill in the gaps manually.”

That’s solution language. It signals ownership, initiative, and resourcefulness. It earns credibility. And it makes you the kind of leader people want to bet on.

Quick Practice: Next time you catch yourself explaining why something can’t be done, try this:

🔹 Identify the obstacle

🔹 State the action you’ve taken

🔹 Offer a path forward

That shift alone can elevate how others experience your leadership.

Here’s to bringing solutions, not just problems,

Jena

Jena Kinney
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