The Art of Clear Thinking
The Art of Clear Thinking
One important skill is the art of clear thinking.
For this you need to be able to separate the "arbitrary" from the "possible".
Many people think there are only two kinds of statement:
- True statements
- False statements
In fact, there are FOUR classifications of statements:
- True
- False
- Possible and
- Arbitrary
True.
Defined as "a statement where all the available evidence supports the statement and none contradicts it.
Example: You are reading this article.
False.
Defined as "a statement where all the evidence contradicts the statement. There is none to support it.
Example: You are NOT reading this article.
Possible.
Defined as "a statement where there is some available evidence to support it but not enough to be labelled true"
Example: Mankind's carbon emissions are affecting the world climate.
Arbitrary.
Defined as "a statement where the statement is conceivable, but there is no evidence to suggest it is actually true."
Example: There is a burglar hiding in your house, right now!
Identifying the arbitrary from the possible.
It is vital that you separate the "arbitrary" from the "possible".
DO NOT confuse ARBITRARY statements and think of them as being POSSIBLE.
Do not make the almost universal error of accepting "arbitrary" (ie conceivable but with no evidence to support it) statements, as having the same status as "possible" (ie as having evidence to support it).
If you make this error you will have joined the other 99% of the world's population who are confused by this.
Separate the "arbitrary" from the "possible"
Imagine someone says to you:
"Is it possible there is a burglar lying in wait under your bed right now?"
"Is it possible that your partner is cheating on you when he/she goes out in the evening?"
"Is it possible that you might crash your car on your way home tonight and die?"
If you reply "yes - it is possible" you will cause yourself unnecessary worry.
The correct reply is "That is a conceivable, but arbitrary statement. What evidence have you got?"
Summary
Remember, there are four kinds of statement, not just true and false, but also possible and arbitrary.
Challenge other people who make arbitrary statements and claim "it is possible". Learn to say in response: "That is a conceivable, but arbitrary statement. What evidence have you got?"
Avoid blurting out your own arbitrary statements. Doing so can make you sound naïve.
Stop yourself from creating arbitrary fears (conceivable but without evidence) and reacting to them as if they were "possible" (ie statements with evidence to back them).
Do this and you will think more accurately and rest more soundly.
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.
Blogs by Email
Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!
Further Reading in Personal Effectiveness
-
How to Develop More Motivation
We all need sufficient motivation to carry us through the day.The starting point of all motivation is a goal.
Read Article > -
Active vs Passive Mind
Things don't just happen for a reason. Behind every problem, there is cause. Individuals with active minds, increase their knowledge by asking intelligent questions and by doing so will find the cause of their problems.
Read Article > -
How to Improve Your Life
Do you want to be more successful, productive and healthier? Then you need to adopt the attitude that if you should, you must. This simple rule really is a game changer, but many people follow their whims, rather than logic.
Read Article > -
From Information to Wisdom - Four Layers of Understanding
We are surrounded by information, but not all of it is useful. To truly understand and make sense of the world, we must break through four layers: Information, Knowledge, Understanding, and Wisdom.
Read Article > -
The Essential Economic Principle to Financial Success
To succeed as business owners and managers, grasping economic fundamentals is vital. Key principle: "Spend less than you earn and invest the surplus in value-generating assets."
Read Article >
Looking for Personal Development Training?
If you're looking to develop your Personal Effectiveness Skills, you may find this Personal Development Training Course beneficial:
Open Training Course Pricing and Availability
Next Open Course Starts in 4 days, London - Central, places available