Easiest Is Not Always Best
By Dr. Michael Osit
You are running late for your appointment so you decide to take a shortcut. For whatever reason, unpredicted traffic, unfamiliar route causes you to take a wrong turn, or whatever, you end up being even later. Taking shortcuts can make it easier to complete a task, however, more often than not it either ends up taking longer or resulting in an inferior product. Consequently, what looks like the easier way to accomplish something is not always the best way.
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Of course, there are times when taking the easy path to accomplish something can be the best way. But the decision to do something the easy way can be muddied with the need to get it done quickly, avoid conflict, or complete an unenjoyable task that must be done. Choosing the easy way out can result in an inferior product due to missing something important or shoddy work. Most tasks require close attention and careful decision-making. Taking the easy path can be an invitation to missing an important step and making rash decisions without considering better alternatives.
It is often the case that taking the easy way can often lead to the longest way. Maybe by skipping steps it doesn’t help you complete the task. Perhaps by lacking thoroughness you end up having to redo the task because it breaks or doesn’t last very long. It is for these reasons that shortcuts often lead to more time required.
Whether it is changing a lightbulb, preparing a monthly report for your boss, or deciding on which medical intervention to take, taking the time and attention to complete tasks is well worth it. It is more likely that you will end up with a better product and a more positive outcome. Approaching your life and its responsibilities requires the following:
- Thoughtfulness-take the time to think about the task and the different consequences of each step.
- Comprehensiveness-don’t take shortcuts or leave any stone unturned. Complete the task without skipping or skimping.
- Patience-don’t rush through tasks and decisions. Take the time and try not to worry about getting it done quickly. Get it done correctly.
- Attentiveness-pay close attention to the details. Taking care of the details can save you time later because you will not need to redo steps.
- Pensiveness-reflect on the task or decision. Don’t just mindlessly complete it. Think about what you are doing in an objective manner. Even when you think you are finished, take time away from it and return with an objective eye.
Approaching your life with this type of carefulness can save a lot of time, pain, and distraught. It is a bonus when you can cut corners and do something the easy way, but don’t submit to the temptation to do so when the task or decision requires the necessary components discussed above to end up with the best positive outcome.
Dr. Michael Osit is a Licensed Psychologist practicing in Warren, and author of The Train Keeps Leaving Without Me: A Guide to Happiness, Freedom, and Self Fulfillment (09/16) and Generation Text: Raising Well Adjusted Kids In An Age Of Instant Everything (07/08).