Life can throw at us some real whoppers. Challenges that top any challenge we have been given to date. They can often require deep thought and much contemplation. But how much is too much thought? What are some strategies to avoid overthinking a problem?
Pros and Cons List
In situations like this, many of us find ourselves making a pro’s and con’s list. What’s the benefit’s of making a decision verses the costs of doing so?
Why does this work? First, oftentimes seeing something on paper can be comforting. Literally seeing your thought analysis can help you realize the problem has been thoroughly reviewed and thought through.
Second, it helps you objectify the problem a bit more. To take a step back from it and look at it from a more objective, big picture way. In short, it can give you a new perspective to view the situation and make a decision. I can tell you many a decision has been made through this strategy!
Gut Feeling
Others find that after thinking through a problem that going with their gut reaction works really well for them. For me, I’m generally not a gut reaction decision-maker but I certainly have moved a bit more in this direction for the smaller decisions in life. And to be honest, my gut has never steered me wrong. Still, for big decisions, the pro’s and con’s list still wins out for me.
Get a Consensus
Many people like to pull in their “tribe” on problems and get their viewpoints on an important decision. This can be a great way to go. Often a friend will think of an outcome or aspect to your problem that may not come to you. This collaborative approach can be quite comprehensive and really be conducive to reaching a consensus rather quickly. Plus, there’s a certain comfort in knowing that you are not alone in a decision.
How do you Avoid Overthinking?
What’s your strategy when it comes to decision-making? How do you avoid overthinking a problem? Do you handle problems differently depending on the potential impact of the decision?
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