Albert Einstein is generally credited with the phrase that goes something like "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results." This very true statement applies to almost every aspect of life. If we keep doing something the same way, chances are we are going to get the same results. Hence, if we are not satisfied with the results we are getting, we need to change the way we do things.
I find it very useful to apply such "do things different" logic to solving problems. Instead of looking at a particular situation like normal, I try to take an opposing view. In other words, I flip it upside down or go about it in the opposite way that it has been done to date. By starting from an opposing vantage point, I question the norm and more rapidly find a solution that yields the results I desire.
The first question I typically ask myself is, "Why am I doing "this or that" in the first place?" Is "this or that" necessary? Does "this or that" offer a benefit to me or others that is important enough for me to spend time on improving it?
If the subject matter is worth my time and effort, then I proceed with identifying what the "normal" mode of operation is. Then I think of the exact opposite approach. Would the exact opposite approach yield better results? If not, I keep adjusting my approach from there. In time, I eventually find a better way and better results.
Try this approach on any aspect of life you endeavor to improve...relationships, finances, health and fitness, work, hobbies, unrealized aspirations, and the list goes on and on. In summary, do the following to achieve better results:
I find it very useful to apply such "do things different" logic to solving problems. Instead of looking at a particular situation like normal, I try to take an opposing view. In other words, I flip it upside down or go about it in the opposite way that it has been done to date. By starting from an opposing vantage point, I question the norm and more rapidly find a solution that yields the results I desire.
The first question I typically ask myself is, "Why am I doing "this or that" in the first place?" Is "this or that" necessary? Does "this or that" offer a benefit to me or others that is important enough for me to spend time on improving it?
If the subject matter is worth my time and effort, then I proceed with identifying what the "normal" mode of operation is. Then I think of the exact opposite approach. Would the exact opposite approach yield better results? If not, I keep adjusting my approach from there. In time, I eventually find a better way and better results.
Try this approach on any aspect of life you endeavor to improve...relationships, finances, health and fitness, work, hobbies, unrealized aspirations, and the list goes on and on. In summary, do the following to achieve better results:
- Why is this important, and is it truly worthy of my efforts?
- What has been the normal approach until now?
- Flip it, and try the opposite approach
- Adjust your approach as necessary
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