It’s tough to make sense of things without first gathering the facts. So, let’s discuss why getting the facts matters so much.
The Role of Knowledge Gathering
Most often, decision processes begin with some data. That is, we need to know the facts about a situation.
Hence, the first step is to do some fact finding.
Certainly, we expect leaders to do this rather than operate blindly or make gut-feel-only choices.
Now, one simple model for knowledge gather is to envision collecting the dots or data points that may be related to a given issue.
Over time, we sort through, deciding which ones of all those dots are most relevant.
Then, our next step is to form connections among those data items. The ultimate outcome is wise behavior.
Therefore, we connect the dots by creating meaningful relationships across those data points.
Where Do We Find the Facts?
Ok, how do we go about getting the facts that are relevant to the choice we need to make?
Well, options include existing public or private databases. And, we can ask opinions of others.
Also, we can rely on past experiences.
A person of faith would make the decision a matter of prayer.
In short, we have multiple avenues to pursue in the knowledge-gathering stage.
The Precept
It should come as no surprise that the Book of Proverbs offers advice about getting the facts.
1). Wise counsel is an obvious starting point, Proverbs 12.15.
2). Actually, there’s safety in getting multiple opinions, Proverbs 11.14, 20.18, and 24.6.
3). Moreover, that wise counsel strengthens our strategies, Proverbs 15.22.
4). It’s good to take your time, thus to be thoughtful about making choices, Proverbs 15.28.
5). Conversely, don’t answer without taking time to think, Proverbs 18.13.
6). By all means, recognize that there are always multiple sides to a story, Proverbs 18.17.
7). Above all else, lean on divine guidance, Proverbs 9.10, 19.21, 20.24, and 21.30.
Apply This Today!
Getting the facts matters if we are to make wise choices in life!
We should get over ourselves by learning to ask others for their insights. Why? Because we cannot possibly know it all ourselves!
Fact finding can take some time, so slow down if you want to improve the quality of choices you make.