We often face binary choices, but our decision-making process may be limited or undisciplined. Sometimes we are told there exist only two options for consideration, when in fact there may be more. Obstacles might arise from external sources or could result from your own limited viewpoint. The key question is how to advance toward the best options possible.
I have found that by putting a problem or proposition through different spheres of thought, I can come to a satisfying resolution. The original idea may or may not be best, but you’ll have made a well-considered decision.
Sphere 1. MINDSET: Expanding Your Sight Lines
A key determinant in decision-making is whether you have a closed or open mind. This is the difference between considering alternative options or merely sticking by what you already believe. There is, of course, a place for adhering to steadfast principles, but we must be aware when these block us from widening our aperture of thought, particularly when this is exactly what we need.
That is the problem in a nutshell. We often rush to make binary choices: yes or no, north or south, should or shouldn’t. The reality is we often have several options, but we need to be open to possibilities beyond what is immediately apparent.
Expanding your sight lines is a great start.
Sphere 2. APPROACH: Thinking Critically
“Why not?” is a very liberating point. It seems to open up the doors to a whole new realm of exploration. However, we need to break it down even further, because you cannot get to the “Why not?” unless you ask the “Why?”
This is the essence of critical thinking.
Perhaps you are in an information bubble where what you see and hear is withheld or filtered. The only effective way out is to source information for analysis and evaluation to provide rational ideas or conclusions. To avoid the paralysis of binary choices, you will need to push deeper to liberate your thoughts. So, ask, “Why?” to find that third, fourth, or sixteenth option that may provide a better result.
Once you have expanded your sight lines to see different potential solutions and thought critically about these choices, you can now decide your course of action.
Sometimes, however, even after a good decision-making process, we are reluctant to move ahead. This is especially true when it involves novel ideas. Impediments can come from within or from the outside and can be difficult to overcome. If you feel jammed, take a moment to reflect on the nature of the obstacle and seek to mitigate the problem. You know yourself better than anyone, and therefore, what you need to advance your decisions.
You will face choices, with some being harder than others. However, following a structured process, such as using the spheres, can guide you toward making the most informed decision, which tends to lead to better outcomes. Take steps to move forward!
It’s Not Binary
The practice of critically evaluating options can be applied effectively in personal, professional, and national contexts to inform sound decision-making. Despite obstacles and the noise of conformity, there are always opportunities to examine the way decisions are made and adjust accordingly.
Breaking free of this dichotomy is not always easy. But you have all you need to properly diagnose paths and make an optimal decision.