levels of problem solving

There are simple problems that require few steps. 

Problem: The dishes are dirty. 

Solution: Wash the dishes. 


And then there are more complex problems. 

Problem: The dishes are dirty.

Solution: Wash the dishes

    Problem: We’re out of soap

    Solution: Get more soap

        Problem: The store was out of soap

        Solution: Go to another store

            ... 

A problem can often be judged by the number of levels. Whether a solution is reached depends on how many levels the person attempting to solve it are willing and able to go through to reach the outcome.

The majority of people choose not to go down more than a few levels. While others choose to dedicate their lives to conquering the millions of levels to reach an outcome. The world needs more of the latter.