Another Situation That Requires Clear Thinking
I’ve written before about clear thinking and some of the factors that hinder it: internal factors such as prejudices, strongly held beliefs, transferences, and denial; and external factors such as the confusion created by false news and by those who deliberately create deception (such as outside agitators in an otherwise peaceful protest). But there is yet another situation that can interfere with clear thinking:
A Dilemma
An example: whether to stay in or leave Afghanistan. The news reported yesterday that President Biden has decided to leave Afghanistan completely by September 11. The Washington Post described information from a hitherto confidential study that quoted many top officials as saying that the war had been badly managed and was going badly, even as public pronouncements stated otherwise.
The dilemma: to stay would mean more loss of (United States and coalition partners’) lives and continuing financial expense. To leave would mean abandoning the Afghan people who have sided with the coalition rather than the opposition, and the women who have taken advantage of their new liberties to improve their lives. Also, some officials are concerned that leaving might allow terrorist groups to reconstitute themselves in Afghanistan.
A Dilemma Can Paralyze Thinking
As one is confronted with such uncomfortable choices, thinking, rather than being distorted, may become paralyzed: the ultimate in malfunction, with the result that no decision is made.
What About Our Own Dilemmas?
While most of us don’t have to confront dilemmas of this scale, we do have our own quandaries to solve. How do we deal with a difficult relative or friend without causing hurt? How do we choose between a work and a family need without feeling guilt for the choice not made? How do we decide between two expenses both of which seem important?
My Complimentary Tool Can Help
First, it will provide some relief from the emotional discomfort caused by the dilemma, as you experience a period of peacefulness and calm. Then, in Step 3, you can wish for a new mental pathway dedicated to helping you make the best choice. And remember: whenever you are in trance, all the pathways that you have wished for, past and present, will be activated to work on your behalf.
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