What instigates the great game of second-guessing? Sometimes, is it the realization that decisions are producing unwanted and maybe unnecessary results? At other times, does second-guessing actually occur before the results are even known?
Why is there such need to second-guess decisions? Is the first example an acceptance that the original decision was not a good one? What about the second one, when we do not let things play- out, but agonize over our decision? Is this a lack of confidence? Could it be due to new information gained after the decision was made? Do self-esteem issues arise with second-guessing? Does outside opinion often lead to the second-guess? Could the process be a way to prepare for unfavorable results?
“Hindsight alone is not wisdom. And second-guessing is not a strategy.”–George W. Bush
Oc course, could we also say, with some degree of accuracy, that the second-guessing of others is even more prevalent than the second-guessing of ourselves? Is this popular, even when the reason for decisions is unknown or not understood?
What causes this constant second-guessing of others? Is it a way to build-up oneself, while bringing down another? Again, the question arises…why? Does it come back to self-esteem issues? Does it demonstrate a lack of mindfulness? Is it a way of denying reality? Could this involve not only a rejection of the decision, but also a refusal to accept someone else making a decision that “we could make better”?
Do you frequently engage in second-guessing? Do you tend to second-guess yourself or others or both? Why? What are the benefits of this practice for you? Do you consider this to be a helpful habit? Would you prefer to expand or reduce your second-guessing practice?
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