Solve Problems: The Core of Every Great Business

Hey founders!

Every successful business starts with one thing: a real problem.

Not a “nice-to-have” feature. Not a “cool idea.” A problem—one that affects real people and demands a solution.

This week, let’s talk about why solving problems is the foundation of a successful business, how to identify the right problem to tackle, and how to ensure your solution is built to last.

Start with the Problem

The most successful companies don’t chase trends—they solve real pain points. 

Amazon? They made shopping effortless. 

Tesla? They’re redefining transportation. 

Even small businesses like a local allergy-free bakery are solving life-changing problems for their customers.

The truth is, businesses built on solving problems don’t just make money—they make an impact. And that’s what creates sustainability.

Ask yourself:

• Does my business solve a genuine problem?

• Is this a problem that I, or someone in my network, have personally experienced?

Your connection to the problem matters. 

Founders who are emotionally tied to the problems they’re solving are more motivated and better storytellers. It’s the difference between “I think this is a good idea” and “I know this needs to exist because I’ve lived it.”

Find the Right Fit

Just because a problem exists doesn’t mean you should be the one to solve it. To build a successful company, you need:

1. Personal Connection: Are you solving a problem that matters to you? A deep connection drives resilience and helps you tell an authentic story to customers.

2. Skill or Knowledge: Do you have the know-how to create a solution—or the drive to figure it out? If you don’t know how to code, starting a tech company will be a long, uphill battle without the right team.

3. Market Potential: Is this a problem many people experience? Even niche markets need to be big enough to support growth. Ask yourself if your market has the potential to generate millions in revenue over time.

Build a Solution That Lasts

“Nice-to-have” products won’t cut it. To create lasting value, your product or service must be a solution. 

Here’s how to approach it:

1. Understand Your Market: Get crystal clear on who your customer is. Are they families needing easier meal options? Freelancers struggling to manage finances? Clearly define who has this problem.

2. Think Beyond the Trend: Trends fade, but real problems persist. Make sure your solution addresses something people truly need—not just what’s popular this year.

3. Start Small, Then Scale: Begin by solving the problem for a small group of people (your early adopters) and grow from there. Prove your solution works before trying to scale too quickly.

The Entrepreneur’s Mindset: Problem-Solving

At the heart of entrepreneurship is problem-solving. 

The best founders don’t just have ideas—they have a mindset focused on finding gaps and creating solutions.

Some of the best business ideas come from a single thought: Why hasn’t anyone fixed this yet?

The founder of Spanx solved the problem of uncomfortable shapewear. Airbnb solved the problem of expensive travel accommodations. WhatsApp solved the problem of unreliable international communication.

Find (and refine) your “Why hasn’t anyone fixed this yet?” moment.

Exercise

Take 10 minutes to answer these questions:

1. What problem am I solving?

2. Am I personally connected to this problem? 

3. Who is my customer? What market is also experiencing this problem?

Write down your answers and revisit them often. Your problem is your foundation, and everything else in your business will build on it.

The Big Takeaway: 

Build a business that solves real problems.

Because when you solve a problem, you’re not just selling a product—you’re creating value, building trust, and ensuring your business is built to last.

Keep solving,

– The Tribe Team