How to overcome the choice paradox

One of the things I like about working in the corporate world is that the company chooses the problems I have to solve.

Wait, what? How can that be a good thing?

Here's why.

When you put yourself out there, you meet and talk with people from all walks of life.

When you read and read a lot

And absorb knowledge without end

If you're adopting a continuous learning mindset

You can't help but be aware of different types of problems.

Some problems are simple. Some are more complex.

But taken all together, they become overwhelming.

And you can't choose which problems to focus on.

In a corporate environment, the problems are more well-defined, there is a structure to solving them, and you have resources available.

All you need to do is execute.

The need for execution is helpful for many professions where lives are at stake, such as working in a hospital or a warzone.

But in some cases, execution might come across to you as a routine exercise if you already know what problems exist, you've implemented the solutions, and you’ve seen the results.

At one point, you'll discover a craving to identify problems yourself.

To discover the solutions

And let other people implement those solutions.

As you sit back and see the big picture

But before you become excited by that vision

Know that unlike the corporate, you don't have a complete toolbox.

You'll have to collect your tools first

Create your own

Or even borrow the tools from other people

***

Would you prefer the problems defined by corporations?

Or would you start defining your own?

That's up to you to decide at any point in your life.

What skillset do you want to add to your toolbox this year?

Will you reply to this email and let me know?

But I can relate. Sometimes, it’s hard to pinpoint which specific skill to focus on or develop. In that case, you might suffer from the choice paradox, i.e., having multiple options.

I suffered from the choice paradox multiple times in my career. And that’s why I’m open to receiving guidance and additional learning to overcome overwhelm.

My latest learning journey involved the Value Creation Wheel. You can read more about my insights through this Medium article.

What’s your best school memory?

I want to share a proud moment with you. Tomorrow, I’ll be sharing my insights and stories to the graduates of my two alma maters in elementary and high school.

In my previous posts, I shared the story of my milestone trip to the land of my secret benefactors. I’m always thankful to the people who trusted me and gave me the privilege of education. I’ve learned to recognize that privilege as a precious gift. And that’s why I plan to keep sharing that gift and inspiring others on their journey to happiness.

Stay tuned for more updates and a post-reflection about my speaking experience.

And in the meantime, you can also travel back to memory lane and self-reflect…

What’s your best school memory?

Share with me your stories for a chance to get featured in Busy Season Journals in the future.

Tin here! Welcome to Busy Season Journals, a newsletter made especially for you by a fellow accountant/auditor, adventurer, and coach-guide. I write about my adventures as an accountant and auditor and everything in between. You get deeper insights and personal stories on how to shape a happy, meaningful journey.

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