If the only tool you had was a hammer, you're probably too smart to look at every problem like it was a nail. Any other problem is likely to be wildly inapprop

If the only tool you had was a hammer, you're probably too smart to look at every problem like it was a nail. Any other problem is likely to be wildly inappropriate. So that would really limit the kind of problems you are equipped to address. You probably have numerous technical resources and not just a hammer for tools, and you probably don't want to use a hammer (that often) during your technical efforts anyway ;) You can hit the ground running and work within the toolkit you already have. You can become more competent with those tools, and hopefully the problem-solving process itself. One of the most worthwhile talents to develop is always being able to make the most of the tools you have at the time. Or you can stretch your capabilities and add to your toolkit so you can reach goals you could not do otherwise. This will be time not spent directly solving your major problems, but it can be worth it. Either way I would carefully consider hundreds of potential problems where solutions are within reach before selecting one which was worthwhile enough to build an entire business around. The business part of the business needs to be a thing you really want to get up every day and do. >global warming, pollution, war, excessive concentration of wealth and poverty, housing, reactionary attacks on education, inefficient food distribution, and cancer. These are the ultra-problems that may always be out of reach for you or your career trajectory. Regardless, it's best if you don't do stuff that makes this kind of thing worse. Also maybe it's best if your problem solving ability prepares you for ultra-problems anyway, in case the opportunity or calling presents itself. You may or may not maintain readiness to jump into something big full-time like that, but with a little light effort over the long run, you can make sure not to rule it out. Keep your options open and broaden your horizons and you'll have more possibilities to choose from.