It’s Only Hard When I Think About It

“Thinking is the hardest work there is which is the probable reason why so few engage in it.”

- Henry Ford

A New Problem

Ever been in a situation where you are faced with a scenario you’ve never seen before? In those situations, you would sit down and think. And think. And think. And then find you have no solution to it and feel despair.

Today, at the main institution, I am faced with that dilemma.

Starting today, the class format has changed. It has become 40 minutes longer. I’m now teaching twice as longer as I previously done. I have to prepare more materials and make the class fun and exciting for 80 minutes!

But do I need to think this way?

Thinking is Needed

I am part of that majority Henry Ford is talking about. I hate to think. I hate to make out a plan. I’m much more inspired and motivated to act, execute and going through the process of trial and error. And, as much as I don’t like to memorize, it is much better and easier to do that than to write out my thoughts on how to work on a project.

The problem is, thinking has its place in life and is absolutely needed. So, when it’s time organize your thoughts, you need to do this in an environment that’s comfortable and time isn’t a issue. That means no upcoming meetings or events to deal with such as work or school.

That being said, you should put a time limit on your brainstorm and when the time is up, you must make the best possible decision you can with your ideas written down. If your think your ideas are inadequate, still decide on something, or you’ll feel you’ve wasted your time.

My Decision

Well, I’ve decided I’ll just go with what I have and see what adjustments I have to make. I accepted the fact that I’ll make mistakes with this new format, and I’ll learn from that. Then, I’ll make the changes needed to make my classes better next time.

I might as well enjoy the ride with my students.

Things to Consider for Today:

• Who likes to think?
• If you like to think, you’re lying.
• Really, you are!
• Still, set a time to think.
• Put a time limit on it.
• Keep it short. (10~30 minutes)
• Your brain loves deadlines.
• It’s more creative that way.
• Make a decision with your ideas on paper.
• If it’s going well, good.
• If not, correct course and continue on your way.
• If it’s utterly crappy, keep at it.
• Mastery is only possible if you persist and improve.