Hey everyone,
The process of a first home purchase has been filled with more 'what ifs' than I ever expected.
You know that feeling when you're about to do something big and your brain goes into overdrive with all the "what ifs"?
That's exactly where I found myself recently.
It wasn't just about one specific challenge, but rather a series of life decisions that seemed to pile up all at once.
It was in one of these moments overwhelm that my broker dropped a gem of wisdom: "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it."
At first, I brushed it off as just another platitude. But then, my partner echoed the same sentiment, and then it got me thinking.
Maybe there was more to this phrase than I thought.
The Decision-Making Marathon
You see, life is not just one big decision you make on a whim; it's more like a marathon. A series of choices, and daily decisions, each one feeling sometimes like it could either make or break everything.
Navigating these choices, I realize my brain was constantly toggling between quick decisions and deep analysis—Daniel Kahneman refers to as your System 1 (thinking fast) and System 2 (thinking slow) parts of the brain.
Table 1: System 1 vs System 2 Thinking
| Aspect | System 1 | System 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Fast | Slow |
| Nature | Automatic, intuitive | Deliberate, analytical |
| Effort Required | Low | High |
| Examples | Choosing lunch, reacting to sudden noise | Planning a career move, solving complex problems |
| Vulnerability to Bias | Higher | Lower (but not immune) |
While re-reading this gem, I realised I was living in System 2 mode 24/7d during the home buying stage. It was and is exhausting. If I could describe it metaphorically, it'd be like trying to solve a Rubik's cube while juggling – yes possible in the short term, but definitely not sustainable.
Embracing the Unknown
Here's the one certainty of life – there will always be unknowns.
You'll ask yourself, hey will this decision pan out?
But what if if circumstances change? It can keep you thinking when you sleep.
But then I read something from "The Daily Stoic" that hit home:
"You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."
It was a eureka moment.
You can't control everything in life, but you can control how to react to it.
Suddenly, "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it" wasn't just a saying – it was a strategy.
Biblical Wisdom
Interestingly, this philosophy aligns with biblical wisdom.
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." - Matthew 6:34
This verse is intertwined with the idea of focusing on the present and not getting overwhelmed by future uncertainties. It's a reminder that worrying about tomorrow doesn't change it, but it does rob us of today's gift - the present.
What I've Learned Along the Way
💡Stay in the present: Stop trying to solve problems that don't exist yet. Today's decisions are enough to keep you busy.
💡 Save the brain power: Not every choice needs a pro/con list. Sometimes, going with your gut on the small stuff leaves more energy for the big decisions.
💡Embrace the adventure: There's always going to be an element of uncertainty. I'm learning to see it as part of the excitement rather than a source of stress.
The Philosophy in Action
Well, here I am, navigating life's maze with a whole new perspective. |
That simple phrase – "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it" – has become my latest principle. A reminder that I don't need to have all the answers right now.
Each challenge, each decision, is just another bridge to cross when I get there.
And you know what? I'm starting to enjoy the journey, unexpected twists and all. Because at the end of the day, it's not just about making perfect decisions – it's about growing and learning along the way, as the goal of stoicism and self-development is.
Applying "We'll Cross That Bridge When We Get There":
Book Recommendations of the Week
📚"Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman:
This book has been my go-to for understanding how we make decisions. It's been incredibly helpful in navigating the complex choices we face daily.
📚"The Daily Stoic" by Ryan Holiday:
A fantastic read for anyone looking to cultivate resilience and peace of mind, especially useful when facing the uncertainties of life.
Remember, my friend, whether you're tackling a big life decision or just trying to fig. out what's for dinner, it's okay to take it one step at a time.
Be present, trust your gut, and don't forget to enjoy the ride. And when in doubt, remember what my broker and partner wisely said: "We'll cross that bridge when we get there."
What bridge is in front of you right now?
Have a great week ahead,
Jerwin Parker
