From sexuality to religion, we seek balance between the unchosen realities that anchor us (race, geography, history) and choices that liberate us.
Making important choices is never simple, but it can be a lot easier and more fulfilling when we pay attention to where the choice is coming from. From business to personal choices, we don't have to make choices from circumstances---like the selection process of choosing from a smorgasbord. Our life choices are best when they come from a deep understanding of who we areand what our life's work is.
Becoming aware of our unique identity (our assumptions/beliefs, values, vision, guiding principles and signature talents) helps us to make conscious choices.
When considering a decision, the mind gives disproportionate weight to the first information it receives. Initial impressions, estimates or data anchor subsequent thoughts and judgments.
In business, a common anchor is a past event or trend. While relying on such may lead to a reasonably accurate estimate of future numbers, it also tends to give too much weight to past events and not enough to other factors.
The Antidote
Anchors affect how virtually all professionals make decisions. No one can avoid their influence. But becoming aware of their dangers can reduce their impact:
- Always view a problem from different perspectives. Try using alternative starting points and approaches rather than sticking with your first line of thought.
- Think about the problem on your own before consulting others.
- Be open-minded. Seek opinions from a variety of people to widen your frame of reference.
- Avoid anchoring your advisers, consultants and others from whom you solicit information. Tell them as little as possible about your ideas and estimates. If you reveal too much, your preconceptions may simply come back to you.