Think for a Change

I'm not sure where it originated, but I've heard it repeated time and time again: Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. As much sense as that statement makes, we often find ourselves addressing the same issue with solutions that are little more than rearranged expressions of previously failed solutions. Why can't we develop new solutions to persistent problems? Because we refuse to think!

Chris Argyris first articulated the concept of double-loop learning. Stop; don't close the window... this is easier than it sounds. Once you get a handle on it, you will be better prepared to address the problems you face with solutions that might actually work!

Let's back into the idea. Let's say you have a persistent problem in one area of your life--for instance, finances. You always seem to come up short in your cash flow. That is a consequence of a strategy based on assumptions. There are the three parts to the process.

Many times, people experience negative consequences so they develop new strategies. After a while, they discover that the new strategies produced the same results as the old strategies. So, they lapse into an endless cycle of strategizing to overcome failed efforts.

In personal finance, people find themselves in debt, so they borrow money to get out of debt. Note: the strategy that caused the problem won't often be the solution to that problem!

The real solution to the problem requires a careful evaluation of the assumptions upon which the failed strategies are based. This is tough because it requires people to change their minds and their actions. Yet, real solutions can't be developed apart from this process.

In personal finance, an individual must determine that personal debt is not the solution to the problems encountered at the end of the month. Granted most people carry huge loads of debt; but most people are broke! It's not working for them, why will it work for you?

The consequences you face are a result of the strategies you develop. The strategies are rooted in your assumptions about the way things really are. If you want to solve problems and stop pretending to be a victim of your circumstances, you'll embrace a new way of thinking. Otherwise, you're doomed to repeat encounters with the same negative consequences.

Get control of your thinking or someone will be glad to think for you!

Dr. Terry Hadaway is author of 30 Seconds to Chaos: Mastering the Art of "What If" Thinking and numerous articles. Visit http://www.30secondstochaos.com for more information on Dr. Hadaway and his straightforward approach to winning at life!

More Resources

Unable to open RSS Feed $XMLfilename with error HTTP ERROR: 404, exiting

More Debt Relief Information:

Related Articles


Stop Debt Collectors
Can you stop debt collectors ? . .
How Do I Lower My Debt Burdens?
How do I lower my debts?There are several ways of improving your credit status. If you have decided upon taking up firm steps to decrease your debts, then you may consider these few ways for dealing with the situation.
New Bankruptcy Law - Targeting the Wrong People?
Last April, President Bush enthusiastically signed into law the oddly-named Bankruptcy Abuse and Consumer Protection Act. This bill, representing the biggest overhaul of bankruptcy law in twenty-five years, was written in order to discourage "bankruptcy of convenience.
Do It Yourself Debt Relief
With mounting bills and unforeseen hardships, you may be considering some form of debt relief. There are many options to help you, but the best may actually be you helping yourself.
4 Simple Ways to Solve Your Debt Burden
Getting BehindGetting behind on your debts owed can be a very frustrating and trying time for you and your family. Depending on how far behind you are, there are other repercussions, such as your credit rating, that will affect you further down the road.
Debt Settlement
What is debt settlement?Debt Settlement is a process to settle your debts with the creditors. With debt settlement, a third party or you yourself negotiate with your creditors to come up with a reduced debt that you agree to pay.
Craving For Financial Freedom
Have you ever felt trapped in a Rat Race and wished to retire quickly but rich?Have you ever felt that you are spending way too much time working with your boss at your office instead of with those you love? Your spouse, children, friends?Have you ever felt frustrated because you are so deep in debt that you think you won't be able to retire because as soon as you do, the money will stop coming and thus you won't be able to pay off your mortgages and credit card?Have you ever felt that you have no control over your life anymore in terms of time? Think about it: can you take a vacation just anytime whenever you want/ need it and as long as you want/ need it?Have you ever wished that you can work whenever you want and wherever you want?You are not the only one!Too many people are trapped in a Rat Race because they have to. There are too many bills to pay, and too many dreams to fulfill.
Debt Elimination Is The Key to Financial Freedom
If you want financial freedom, the first thing that you will need to do is to get rid of your debts. After all, as long as you owe money, you can't consider yourself to be financially free.
Credit And Debt Relief--A One Stop Solution
Amy Wright, 34, was extatic when her realtor showed her the three bedroom townhome overlooking the lushious golf course. It was exactly the home she was looking for.
Two Ways To Debt Relief
There are many debt relief programs out there both off line and online. Sometimes it can be difficult to chose one from the other.
Life After Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy and Credit - What Happens After Your Debts Are Discharged?Bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for ten years. But you may be able to get credit fairly quickly - almost immediately after a bankruptcy - although you will pay dearly for it.
Creating A Realistic Budget
Budgeting -- ooh, what a scary word! If you want to frighten someone whose finances are out of control, suggest that they tally up their expenses on a piece of paper. We all understand the value of such an exercise, but when it comes to the practicality of putting a budget together, we get cold feet.
How to Become Debt Free
In today's consumer society it is all too easy to get into debt. If you have a few credit cards, car loan, mortgage and possibly student loans it can easily add up.
Debt Management Systems
What is a debt management system, and when do you need it? Like any kind of management system, debt help systems can be good or bad. We will take a look at what you can do to manage your debt better.
IVA: Individual Voluntary Arrangement
What Is an IVAThe IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement) was introduced by The Insolvency Act of 1986 as an alternative to bankruptcy which benefits both the debtor and the creditor. An IVA enables people facing financial difficulties to come to a formal agreement with their creditors rather than having to face bankruptcy.
Can You Escape the Trap of Ever Growing Debt?
It's difficult not to be concerned when facing numbers like these:43% of U.S.
New Bankruptcy Law Makes it Harder to Stop Foreclosure
On October 17, 2005 President Bush's sweeping bankruptcy reform law goes into effect forever changing the rules of debt collection in this natiion. Consumer advocates and the public appear to be completely unaware of the total and complete victory of the creditors under the new legislation.
Bankruptcy Your Best Bet?
Filing bankruptcy is a common practice among the U.S.
Bankruptcy As An Option
If your financial worries are preventing you from sleeping at night, then you may have considered bankruptcy in hope of a little relief. Usually, consumers only turn to bankruptcy if there is no other hope for them to get out of debt.
Bankruptcy Abuse
Bankruptcy is little more than a smack on the hand these days. Creditors are certainly not going to look at you as a wise credit risk after bankruptcy, but that will probably not stop them from extending credit to you anyways.