Zero-Based Thinking

Zero-based thinking is a creative exercise for solving problems, and it comes down to one question: Knowing what I now know, would I make the same decision?

Use it when you’re stressed, when you’re dissatisfied with your results, when you know you need to change.

If the answer is yes, keep doing the same thing. If the answer is no, you have four options: do more of it, do less of it, stop doing it altogether, or do something completely different.

It works on people, processes, products, services, strategies — anything that affects your life and your business. Knowing what I now know, would I hire her again? Do I continue to offer this service? What will I change moving forward?

The question validates what’s working, forces the necessary adjustments, and stops the constant second-guessing — a major cause of stress.