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Unfortunately, there is no single recipe. The criteria for generating effective decisions is conditional
and subject to modifications; nevertheless, this criteria is dependent on the parameters of place and time, and more precisely our ability to adhere to them. This process involves learning to slow down in order to assess the situation and the given circumstances, then taking the appropriate action, and not vice versa. This enables us to tune in with reality.
Many believe that such a slowdown develops passiveness and that a person may gradually forfeit their active position. In fact, our active position has two dimensions. The first dimension is quickness, when there is no gap between stimulus and response. Those who live in this dimension are re-active people. Their lives are based on learned automatic patterns, not necessarily successful but very familiar and within their comfort zone; their flexibility and critical attitude to the stimulus becomes atrophied — of note, something well-known to consumer marketers.
The second dimension is a pro-active attitude, when our reactions, decisions or actions are appropriate and timely. It may take a few minutes to observe the situation, but these precious moments may be what separates the winners from those who are wasting their efforts fishing at the fountain square or looking for mushrooms in the middle of winter. Japanese samurai warriors have a wonderful rule before making a decision — first you inhale and exhale seven times, comparable to two minutes. They believe that thinking longer than this, the results would be unsuccessful, and that thinking less than this results in failure seven out of ten times. What about you? Is your plan on success ready to incorporate slowing down? NV