Why Use Zero-Based Thinking?

First: What is zero-based thinking? It’s a creative thinking exercise used to solve problems. It’s part of my strategy of asking better questions, so I get better answers to help me in life and business. Zero-based thinking starts by asking this question:Knowing what I now know, would I make the same decision?

When do you use zero-based thinking? Anytime you’re dissatisfied with your results; when you’re motivated to fix things; when you want to double-check important decisions; when you need to change things up; when you’re bored with life.

Ask yourself: Knowing what I now know, would I make the same decision? If your answer is YES, then keep doing the same thing or do even more of it. If your answer is NO, there are 4 options: Do more. Do less. Stop doing it. Do something different.

Zero-based thinking can be used with anything—with people, processes, products, prospects, services, strategies, time spent, time off—anything you care about; anything that affects your life.

Some examples? Knowing what I now know, would I hire her again? Knowing what I now know, would I offer this service? Knowing what I now know, would I buy this car?

The KWINK question helps you validate what’s working; helps you make timely adjustments; stops you from constantly second-guessing yourself (a major cause of stress); helps you make much better decisions, quicker.

So next time you’re dissatisfied with something you thought you’d be happy about, ask yourself: Knowing what I now know, would I make the same decision? If the answer is NO, determine what you’re going to do about it, and move quickly to set that in motion!