Tag Archives: decision-making

Chinese Fortune Cookie on Imagination

The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination – Chinese fortune cookieBack Camera

When you need to make a decision, how much time do you spend on gathering information v. brainstorming solutions?

Can you devote more time to imagining possibilities?

For an upcoming decision you need to make, can you think of 5 alternatives? How about 10 or 15? What is the “crazy” idea?

Chinese Fortune Cookie Wisdom on Happiness

Happiness is activity — Chinese fortune cookie

A lot of times we over-think things. We weigh decisions that are not yet upon us – I just got an interview at company X, but do I really want to work there (or even more inconsequential, do I really want that commute)? We replay options and scenarios again and again in our mind, even though we can’t possibly know the value of any of them without taking further steps. We worry about what might be or what might happen or what people might think, even when nothing has occurred yet.

Anxiety feeds on the unknown. Taking action diminishes the unknown and therefore the anxiety. Focusing on activity rather than analysis makes you happier.

Happiness is also supported by activity because getting our body moving increases energy. It also improves concentration. At times it feels like my cardio workouts are the only time my mind is quiet! Activity lightens our mood.

Where are you spending too much time thinking rather than doing? What activity can you add to your daily practice to fuel your energy, improve your focus and lighten your mood?