How to think about a problem

“How to think about a problem:

The first step is to make the problem specific;

The second step is to form theories freely of how to rid yourself of that burden;

The third step is to develop in foresight the consequences of your proposals;

The fourth and final step in thinking is to compare the consequences of your proposals to see which is best in the light of your scheme of life as a whole;

Whether you choose a vacation or a spouse, a party or a candidate, a cause to contribute to or a creed to live by—think!”
                      Brand Blanshard, philosopher