Typically I'm tenacious about problems. I like to solve problems, but sometimes there are problems in our midst that we can't solve. How do we know that, and what do we do then?
Not too along ago, I was in the midst of a problem I could not solve. I gave the problem good energy and thought, and after a number of tries to contribute to the solution with no success, I gave up. I left the problem to others to solve and exited the situation. Did I give up too early? I don't think so--a careful analysis of the situation tells me I made the right choice.
Sometimes we simply don't have what a problem needs--we're not the ones that can solve the situation, and other times we are well positioned to make a difference, contribute, and solve the problems in our midst.
It is frustrating when you don't have what a problem needs, however if you have given the problem your best attention, you can be satisfied with your effort and move on to other situations.
What do you do when you face a tough problem like this?
First, analyze the problem. Think about what you could do to help out, make better.
Second, do what you can, and if and when that fails, analyze if there's anything more you can do--if not, step back.
Try to make the kind of changes that will prevent the problem from happening again.
Onward.