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!

Group advocates tax increases and non-user fees for sewer debt relief
The Birmingham News - al.com, AL - 19 hours ago
At a morning press conference, the group put forward "the people's plan," an 11-point proposal for dealing with the debt. The activists, including a ...

Staying On Track with Your Debt Relief Plan
3x24 - Your Newspaper and News Magazine, Germany - 21 hours ago
All these things, however, pale in comparison with the importance of sticking to and staying focused on your debt relief plan. Sticking with a debt relief ...

Online Audio Seminar on Debt Relief Helps Consumers
PR Urgent - Aug 26, 2008
Personal finance publishing company offers online audio seminars to help consumers decide between different debt relief options and how to negotiate debt ...

NCR deal brings relief for over-indebted consumers
Personal Finance, South Africa - 3 hours ago
By Neesa Moodley-isaacs As of next month, if you are undergoing debt counselling you will no longer have to pay the costs associated with the repayment of ...

Fitch Rates Marble Falls, Texas' COs 'A-'
MarketWatch - 19 hours ago
Both direct and overall debt levels have climbed with recent debt offerings and now are above average. Property taxpayers receive some relief from the fact ...

All you need to know about online bankruptcy
Thrifty Scot (press release), UK - Aug 27, 2008
A recent report confirmed that as of next year a new form of filing for bankruptcy online would be introduced, and this will be known as a Debt Relief Order ...

It's unfair to give lawyers debt relief
Chicago Daily Herald, IL - Aug 23, 2008
22), comments that they should not be consigned to lives of crippling debt for that choice. If they entered private practice, they would still have a debt. ...

Go Debt Relief, Now a Member Lexington Chamber of Commerce
PR.com (press release), NY - Aug 20, 2008
A slumping economy has more and more consumers looking for help with their credit card debt. Go Debt Relief is assisting people struggling with their high ...

Use Credit Card Relief to Stay out of Bankruptcy
3x24 - Your Newspaper and News Magazine, Germany - Aug 23, 2008
For credit card debt relief, the first things you should try are very simple and easy to do yourself. Firstly, set a budget for yourself, and track how much ...

IMF, Paris Club applaud debt relief grant
WOW, Gambia - Aug 19, 2008
In December of 2007, the International Monetary fund (IMF) granted The Gambia a milestone debt relief package worth $140 million. In a statement at time, ...

Wind Chimes and more...

Windchimes for great gifts!

The Road to Debt Relief