All Psyched Up: Reap the rewards of a common-sense approach
By Medicine Hat News on February 1, 2019.
Over the years people have told me that they appreciate the fact I have common sense as though it is some kind of a rare attribute. Unfortunately, common sense isn’t very common, and it certainly doesn’t make sense to everyone. Common sense: 1. Focuses on the reality of everyday matters and not on wishful thinking or unrealistic dreams. It sees life as it is but knows that it can improve with good choices. 2. Requires time for research and a clear understanding of everything involved. There is an old adage that states “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.” Taking time to gather information and seek counsel can save a lot of trouble in the long-run. 3. Considers options and the consequences of each of them. 4. Sorts out important facts from distractions, emotions and unwise advice from others. 5. Incorporates delayed gratification principles and seeks long-term benefits. 6. Adopts a sound practical approach where action reduces risk and results in a positive outcome. 7. Reflects one’s personal values and sets good boundaries to protect them. 8. Turns theory into lifestyle and knowledge into wisdom. 9. Strengthens with practice like a muscle that builds with exercise. 10. Can be taught and learned by motivated individuals who recognize the value in making good life choices. Most of us know simple common-sense ideas but we don’t always practice them for a number of reasons that don’t always make sense. We know that spending less than our income results in financial well-being. Choosing a healthy diet and exercising regularly facilitates good health. Getting enough rest makes each day go better. Reducing impulsivity and alcohol intake limits or reduces relationship problems and protects our dignity. If you have been accused of not having common sense or find that your life is just not going the way you had hoped it would there are several options to consider: 1. Believe in yourself and the idea that you can learn new ways to do better. 2. Physically write down a specific issue as well as the choices and consequences for each before acting. Writing things down give them a beginning and an end rather than allowing thoughts to just keep going around and around in your head. 3. Think about successes you or others have had in resolving similar problems in the past and why that happened. What was the process used for dealing with the situation? 4. Practice slowing down your response time so that you can gather all the information you need to make a wise choice. 5. Consider working with a registered psychologist who is trained and experienced in the area of problem-solving. Before you know it, others will compliment you on your common-sense approach to life and you will start reaping the rewards! Dr. Linda Hancock (www.LindaHancock.com) is the author of “Life is an adventureÉevery step of the way” and “Open for Business Success” is a Registered Psychologist who has a private practice in Medicine Hat, Alberta Canada. She can be reached at 403-529-6877 or through email office@drlindahancock.com 22-21
