stress
Making Good Decisions
Avoiding decision making is one of the biggest time wasters around. In a good percentage of the cases, any decision is better than none. To go to the left or to the right or to conscientiously stand still is better than standing at the intersection in indecision. A 50 percent average in making good decisions is an excellent record. There are many people who may not be excellent problem solvers, but they're good decision makers. They have the courage to analyze the facts quickly, make a decision, and then learn from and live with the results. Many times such decision makers will outperform the problem solvers just because the decision makers keep things moving.
Divide and conquer
Benjamin Franklin is quoted as having told the Continental Congress, “If we don't hang together, we'll hang separately.” He recognized that the easiest way to overcome opposition is one by one.
There's a basic principle at work here that can be used over and over. Almost any problem may seem too big for us to handle, but when we break it down into its parts, it doesn't appear so formidable.
Projects and problems can be divided and conquered in a number of ways:
- In time we can break them down to each step needed to reach the goal, steps that are small enough to take. Take that first step.
- Functionally we can break them down by the different types of tasks to be done. Perhaps we can do one of those.
- Strategically we can break them down until we identify the person or one action that is the key to further unlocking the problem.
- In terms of goals we can break them down into subgoals and decide which are obtainable now.
- Geographically we may divide them so we can cover each part systematically.
Next time you are stopped in your tracks by a mountain of a problem, try dividing it and conquering it, molehill by molehill. It works.
Background Information
Widespread Anxiety
Here's a look at the frequency and types of anxiety problems.
Symptoms of Anxiety
Here's how to recognize the signs of anxiety disorder.
Questions and Answers
Are anti-anxiety medications absolutely necessary? Is it possible, for instance, to cure repeated anxiety attacks without them?
Answer
Are some anti-anxiety medications safer and less addictive than others?
Answer
Do anti-anxiety medications have to be taken forever?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Strapping on the Nitro
Stress can be more dangerous than you think.
Sweet Escape?
Chocolate: What tastes so good going down may leave you empty.
The Journey
One man's tale of traveling through anxiety and panic disorder to the other side.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
If you sweat the small stuff, it's time to learn how to break free from the control freak inside of you.
What Really Matters?
Your answer to the question of priorities can make the difference between success and failure.
Trading Anxiety for Peace
Embracing peace can begin with a switch in perspective.
A Spiritual RX for Healthy Mind and Body
A new study of bereaved spouses shows a significant link between religious faith and the ability to heal after a loss. It's just one more confirmation of the faith/health connection.
Learning to Roll With Change
It's not the most fun you'll ever have, but the results are worth it.
Related Topics
Transitions: Changing Jobs, Moving
Relationships: Communication Gaps
Parenting Teens: Communication Problems
