How to Respond to Any Situation
How to Respond to any Situation
Almost always, your best response to a situation should be based upon a logical / rational evaluation of all the available facts.
We call this principle: "Running on reason".
We need to avoid any traces of irrational or illogical thinking. If you evaluate situations using NON-logical ways of thinking, then you will very likely mess-up.
In what NON-logical ways do people evaluate events?
Common NON-logical ways to evaluate a situation.
1. According to the majority opinion.
Some people evaluate events according to the majority opinion: They tend to do whatever the majority are doing. They agree with whatever is the majority view.
Is this a good way to evaluate situations? If not, why not?
2. According to what we have always done.
People who take the traditional view, do what they have always done. They are uncritically repeating time-honoured practice.
Is this a good way to evaluate situations? If not, why not?
3. According to a prejudice or preconceived idea.
You uncritically apply an existing preconception or prejudice to the situation and you never think to check your preconceptions.
Is this a good way to evaluate situations? If not, why not?
4. According to whatever is the easiest.
You take the easy way out of every situation. A quick fix.
Is this a good way to go about things? If not, why not?
5. According a "Snap judgement".
You do whatever you happen to think of first. You know that you "have to do something", so you are willing to "try anything and see what happens".
Is this a good way to go about things? If not, why not?
How to make a logical evaluation of the situation.
We suggest you use "A rational, logical evaluation of all the available facts".
Let us look at the question of logical thinking and contrast it to every other type.
- Logic is a system of thought and communication.
- Logical thought is unique. It is different from every other type.
- Logic is NOT guessing, nor fantasising, nor wishing, nor blindly following the majority opinion.
Logical thought is a special kind of thought which is distinguished by the following characteristics.
- Based upon facts, not feelings.
- All terms clearly defined using specific language and with the units of measurement explicitly stated.
- Highly systematic, organised, hierarchical and methodical.
- Any mathematical and causal relationships are made clear and distinct.
- Logical thought is highly practical; capable of being put into effect.
- No guessing, wishing, hoping, or relying on unwarranted assumptions.
We call this: Running on reason.
"Fix reason firmly in her seat, and call to her tribunal every fact, every opinion." Thomas Jefferson.
Definition: Running on reason
Running on reason is a work principle used in business. It means you look at the facts, set clear words and measures, follow a tidy step-by-step plan, and cut out all guesswork and bias. If any of these parts is missing, you are no longer running on reason.
Show CG4D Definition
- Built only on checked facts, not feelings
- All terms and measures are made clear
- Steps are set in an ordered, methodical way
- No bias, guesswork or hidden ideas allowed
Article Summary
In any tough moment, stop, list the facts, test each one, and let logical thinking, not mood or crowd, guide your next move; reason steers you to the best result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that frequently get asked about this topic during our training sessions.
What does "running on reason" mean?
Why is following the majority a weak way to decide?
How can I spot prejudice in my decision making?
What problem-solving steps create a logical response?
How does clear thinking differ from a snap judgement?
Why should feelings not guide critical decisions?
Which traits show a plan is truly logical?
Thought of something that's not been answered? Ask Us Today!
Did You Know: Key Statistics
In 2024, the World Economic Forum found that 73% of employers list critical thinking and clear decision making as the top skill they look for when hiring. A 2025 Gartner survey shows teams that base choices on data and logic are 32% more likely to meet their yearly targets than teams that follow instinct.About the Author: Chris Farmer
Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years' experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.
Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.
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