power of PROBLEM

Entrepreneurs with a problem solving mindset are driven to create solutions. Products are used daily that trigger thoughts like, ‘this would be better if….’ and ‘if only this was faster…’ yet the majority of us accept the status quo.  There are a minority who decide to take action, create and launch a new product.  What drives these entrepreneurs? Do they have a unique outlook and approach.

                                       The GOPRO Story
The invention of a passionate surfer leads to sales of 35 million cameras

As a passionate surfer, Nick wanted to film his action on the water in order to demonstrate his skills and fulfil his desire of ‘going pro’. Initially filming with a camera attached to his hand with rubber bands, he was inspired to create a belt to attach the camera to his body. He used his mother’s sewing machine to create the first prototypes and raised money by selling seashells out of his mobile van. In 2002, the idea for GoPro was born.  His passion to find a solution that could successfully film on the water took GoPro from a niche product for surfers into the mainstream enabling anyone keen to capture their activities on film. Go Pros fast growth, from selling out of a mobile van to becoming a billion dollar company has made Nick a billionaire. 

Where are they today?
With so much content being created by GoPro users, the company started its transformation to become a media company in 2014 broadcasting its content to YouTube, Virgin America and XBox Live and the Playstation network. In 2019, GoPro celebrated selling its 35 millionth HERO camera since the launch of the first HD HERO in 2009.

Nick Woodman’s surfing passion led to the creation of the world’s most versatile camera that empowers people to be creative, capture their adventures and share it globally.

Through the Jill and Nicholas Woodman Foundation donations have been made to a variety of causes, from child abuse prevention to entrepreneur and community building projects.

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                            The POWER OF PROBLEM Exercises
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                                                          Is this your persona?
                                    ‘I’m driven to create something new to solve the problem’.

1. Do you look at problems from different perspectives and tend to generate multiple solutions?
2. Do you get inspired thoughts during dream time? If so, how do you capture the ideas?
3. List 3 times in your life you have encountered a problem
4. Did you try an existing product or service to help you overcome it?
5. Could you create something better? If so, what would it do?

Wishing you much success,
Marina