Thinking in Points

The secret to a more orderly and punctual lifestyle seems to lie in the ability to think in points. Here's why:

• Everything that needs to be done is clearly noted, demarcated, organised into step-by-step processes, and fit into your schedule. 
• The clear-thinker does not forget any task on his 'to-do' list. If the clear thinker is also prone to sloth, then it possible that days of procrastinating will force him to reflect on his sins and eventually get down to the task.
• The clear-thinker is also forced to face the tasks he/she has so far successfully avoided. Once imprinted into the list in the mind or on that sheet of paper, it takes on form and dimension, instead of a vague, unsatisfied feeling at the back of your head. The clear-thinker i.e. you, must then acknowledge the distasteful task, look it in the eye and beat it down with his/her unwavering determination. 

How to go about thinking in points and getting to that more orderly, neat lifestyle:

1. Make 'to-do' lists (infra above). A list will organise your day, week or month into definite, achievable tasks. Tips:

• Have clearly defined goals.
• Have achievable goals.
• Set yourself a deadline

2. Clear up your room. Clearing up the clutter in your room is symbolic of clearing up the clutter in your mind. It will result in the emergence of an environment in which the clear thinker can set about his/her tasks for the day. If the clear thinker is truly efficient, he/she can compose the to-do list during this time. Note: If you live in a house/apartment, then tough luck. You must clear up the whole thing.

3. Exercise some will power and work.

A tip on going about the above/ Way to make it easier:

It is important to inculcate the habit of thinking in points into your daily, everyday life. The writer has observed a trait peculiar to those who think in points. They speak and write in them. A classmate tends to say. "This is what I thought about what you just said. One, it was true because.... Two, ABC person also said...." These people are organised and focused and had pinpointed their career interests long before this writer had even thought about the word.

It seems however, that thinking in points is harder that it seems. Point 1 leads to Point 2, but in getting to Point 3, a SALE/FLAT 60% OFF in a nearby shop may catch your eye and divert your attention. Indeed, low prices are the least of the distractions available. Point 2 and a half may remind you of the time (2.30) and how hungry you are and of what you would like to eat for lunch. Thus, the writer concludes that will power is also needed to think in points. 

Various studies note that the amount of will power people have is limited. For instance, if you make yourself exercise in the morning, it is harder to say no to the cookie with the tea in the afternoon. Or, if you force yourself to attend three classes in the morning, it is harder to make yourself attend the optional class in the evening. Moreover, will power is like a muscle. The more you exercise it, the more it develops. 

Coming back to the point, i.e. the tip I was giving, err.. the point is to inculcate the practice into your daily life. Speak in points.


Please Note: This post in meant to be a sarcastic take on thinking in points. Its subtle. However, my friends tell me they miss my subtleties. Ah, poor misunderstood me. What i was really getting at was not-so-subtly explained by the panda over here.