If thinking is categorized practically, it can be broadly split into ‘volitional thinking’ and ‘instrumental thinking.’ Volitional thinking involves the belief that to succeed, a person must have a strong will to overcome hardships and obstacles. Self-improvement falls under this category. However, to actually overcome hardships and obstacles, it is instrumental thinking that drives us to consider that we need ‘tools’ to get past them. In other words, it’s like how carpenters build houses: they construct the structure, but tools are what make it possible. There is no carpenter without tools. Both are essential for success, but if I had to emphasize one, focusing on instrumental thinking is more advantageous. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Everyone is aware of their own shortcomings. Personal judgment based on individual experience can be either an advantage or a disadvantage. One’s experiences and circumstances influence how these advantages and disadvantages are perceived. As circumstances change, so do the benefits and drawbacks. For example, if the trait of being unable to form long-term relationships due to untrustworthy people is a disadvantage, it can become an advantage when dealing with a scammer. If you’re troubled by a shortcoming that’s difficult to fix, I suggest changing your perspective. Instead of trying to fix the shortcomings, consider changing how you interpret the situation. This way, disadvantages can actually turn into benefits. However, shifting your point of view on your own can be challenging. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”