When something troubling recurs, it is a sign that you have not adequately dealt with the situation. It is a wake up call that you need to deal with it at a deeper level to get over it.
Sometimes the best way to deal with such a situation is head on, not sideways!
For example, if you are having trouble with a team member, you need to sit down with him or her and discuss the situation face to face. You need to be very clear about the positives, the areas for improvement and areas that are not negotiable. The employee needs to know that your assessment is balanced (not biased), that you are willing to help with the situation but you also expect the employee to do their part. Not dealing with the situation in totality leads to recurring problems.
Leadership is about dealing with difficult problems in different parts of your life including business, family and other aspects of your life.