Give it Some Thought

We live in a world moving at an ever-increasing pace.  It’s an environment where information bombards us from all angles and quick thinking and decisions are often prized.  But is our quick thinking serving us well?

 I recently began reading Daniel Kahneman’s book “Thinking Fast and Slow” and it really made me slow down and think.  His point is we spend “too much time thinking fast and shallow, and too little time thinking slow and deep.”

 According to Kahneman, we have two systems of thinking.  The first is our automatic thinking.   It operates quickly with little or no voluntary control.  Think of all the things you just do without a moment of consideration.  It doesn’t take much deep thought to turn on your computer, get your morning coffee, or recognize when someone is angry with you.  The thinking behind all these behaviors is pretty fast and shallow.

 The second system Kahneman describes requires intentional mental activities.  It includes things like creating plans, considering alternatives, and ranking priorities.  This type of thinking is slow and deep.  The art of thinking slow involves embracing a mindset valuing reflection, analysis and the exploration of nuance. 

 Kahneman believes we rush to conclusion too quickly in many circumstances.  Instead of giving in to the pressure of immediate responses, it is better to be willing to admit when a topic or question requires more time and consideration. 

 While there are benefits to responding quickly in certain situations, more frequently I’ve seen people just blurt out a response without any consideration of different perspectives or how their words will impact those hearing them.   While it may be fast, it certainly isn’t effective or wise.

 Wisdom is not acquired by racing from answer to answer.  It is the result of a patient and deliberate accumulation of knowledge, experience, and self-awareness.  The great thinkers and philosophers of history were not known for their quick, off-the-cuff remarks, but for their profound insights and the depth of their contemplation.

 The benefits of thinking slow and deep extend beyond personal growth.  In professional settings, thoughtful decision-making can lead to more effective strategies, better problem solving, and stronger leadership.  By resisting the impulse to provide instant answers, we create space for collaboration, discussion, and the generation of innovative ideas.  When you offer your opinion too quickly, you will shut down the engagement of others on your team who process at a slower pace.

 We all can cultivate the habit of deliberate thinking by carving out time for introspection, setting aside moments for focused contemplation, and even just intentionally pausing before we start talking.  In a society that often rewards quick thinking, choosing to prioritize depth over speed requires a conscious effort and a commitment to the pursuit of wisdom.

When we spend too much time thinking fast and shallow, and too little time thinking slow and deep, we end up sounding smart at the expense of being wise.   Instead of rushing to offer your opinion and give answers, slow yourself down.  Remind yourself to give it some thought.

 Joni S. Naugle is the founder and president of Naugle Associates, LLC, Reading, where she works with clients on leadership, strategy and organizational effectiveness. She leads two Vistage executive peer groups, is a Certified Positive Intelligence Coach and is certified in Patrick Lencioni’s The Working Genius Assessment.