Good old Golden Days

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By David Edge

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As we begin to solve a problem, we often find ourselves going back to the basics. What is the root of the problem and what is the best course of action to resolve it?

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Sometimes we make a list of the pros and cons of the issue so that we can review a written version and start eliminating ideas, one at a time, as we think through the solution process. You take that sharp pencil and draw a line through it. There! One more decision made, bringing you that much closer to a solution.

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But going back to the basics is what made you, you!

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Just what were those basics that we were taught those many years ago? Can you remember sitting in that small wooden desk in first grade? There were chalk blackboards (sometimes they were dark green), and dusting erasers, learning to count, memorizing your multiplication tables, ABCs, and how to use a pair of scissors and glue. Somewhere in the classroom was the American Flag, a map of the USA, and usually a globe. Is the picture getting clearer?

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The teacher handed out practice sheets of problems or tests, and those copies were printed on a mimeograph machine! Remember the purple ink and the smell? There were pop quizzes, and recess, and snacks. After lunch there was a nap! But the nap time was for first graders; by the time second grade rolled around we were big boys and girls.

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Those were simple times with simple solutions as we look back to that period in our growing up years. But some things were just ingrained into our small grey matter during that period. Can you remember that first grade teacher? Even to this day I can…….. Mrs. Lambert.

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We are a product of the total experiences of our lives. Each event, experience, teacher, coach, or boss, has shaped us into what we are today and has affected the way we make decisions.

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When going back to the basics, determine your objective. This should be the first order of business when making a decision on any subject. Gathering information is the second step to your process. Be careful with this one because there is such a thing as paralysis by analysis of too much information. Self-evaluation of your skills and ability to make this decision is next. If this is a complex issue you have to ask yourself, “do I need outside help with this decision making issue? Selecting help is next. I’ve always explained to clients, “you have to like the people who are going to help you”. Never be afraid to check around and review several sources before deciding who you want help from. Remember the old adage “two heads are better than one”. When resolving the issue, keep in mind that you will have personal likes and dislikes about the answer you are trying to reach. Subjective thinking is the like or dislike of a personal preference, but you must maintain an objective thought process to reach the most appropriate decision.

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One last note on this topic; Procrastination is your biggest enemy when making decisions. Work through the process until it’s complete! Whether it’s creating your retirement financial plan, a medical decision, setting up a Will, Trust, or a fund for that grandchild’s college education. You sometimes just might need a cheerleader or a task master to get you to finish the process.

We know where you can find such a person! Call us, we can help!