When you drop the issue, who does it land on?

Show up to problems with potential solutions.

When you run into a problem or a roadblock, don’t drop the issue on your manager’s desk and ask, “What should I do”?” Instead, take ten minutes to think of two possible ways to fix the problem before you reach out. Even if your ideas aren’t perfect, showing up with “I noticed this issue, and I think we could try X or Y” immediately show you’re a proactive thinker, not just a task-follower.

The ability to analyze a situation and suggest a path forward builds your decision-making skills. As you move up, your job will shift form following instructions to making tough calls under pressure.

This strategy is powerful because it builds trust and save your team time. And you’re providing options. Do the mental heavy lifting for your manager to make it easier for them to give you a quick answer and move forward. Over time, this habit creates a reputation for being a reliable problem-solver who can handle challenges independently. You’re not just reporting problems; you’re helping the business stay in motion, which is exactly what leaders look for when deciding who to promote or give more responsibility to.

Put these approaches into practice.

Let’s look at practical ways to do the "mental heavy lifting" before seeking guidance.