Friday, October 24, 2008

Lessons from NS: Lesson #2

Always think ahead.

This is universally applicable and actually harder than it sounds. How far "ahead" is often an important variable to consider.

Thinking ahead means factoring future events and indirect consequences into current decisions. When taking "advance" off or leave, for instance, consider the likelihood that I might have to pay it back at an inconvenient time.

Thinking ahead can also be part of the justification for having an exit strategy in any conflict (Lesson #1). By thinking ahead, we take into considering our future need to work with the party we are in conflict in at present, and therefore factor that into our current decision to admit wrong in order to quickly bring the argument to a closure.

Thinking ahead is also an immensely valuable mental tool to help one get through trying situations. For example, keeping ORD in mind has helped me recognise that there is an end to the present situtation and prevented me from rash decisions with devastating consequences when I'm particularly frustrated or angry.

No comments: