“People are too quick to take action; instead they should stop to think of the possible consequences of what they might do.”
Abraham Lincoln’s legendary statement “If I have 8 hours to cut a tree, I would spend 6 hours sharpening my axe” almost sums up my take on this issue. I strongly believe that in most of the cases, a thorough planning is required before one proceeds to the action phase. Along with obtaining the desired outcome of the action, the planning phase also helps to prevent any untoward consequences that the action might lead to.
Reinforcing my belief on this issue are the innumerable situations in our daily life wherein a brainstorming session just before the action phase itself influences the outcome in positive way. For example, an actual operation on the battlefront in a war should always be preceded be an intensive discussion on the strategy that will deliver the desired result and also reduce the casualties in the operation. A strategy-less operation more often results in a failed mission or a large number of casualties.
Also, being actively involved in a sport, I greatly value the strategic discussions in fielding a team that would serve our goal.
On a different note, but nevertheless supporting the same stand, is the increasing use of time sheets in various institutions to plan meticulously over different periods of work, ranging from a day to the entire length of a particular project. Again, such a tool will help to keep up with the schedule and also control the outcome the project.
The present environmental condition is the best example of how one has to bear the consequences of an action that is done in an impulse or without heeding to its disastrous outcome. The polluted surroundings are a collective result of the hurried action on part of the people to make their ends meet without giving a thought of the effect they might have on the environment. Global warming is another such result of a failed foresight.
However, there are many circumstances where one has to rely on one’s instincts to come out of the situation. “Survival instincts” can never be more stressed upon. For example, fantasize yourself in being in a situation wherein you are pursued upon by a man-eater or you are surrounded by a bunch of goons. In situations like these, one has to be quick to act without giving too much thought on what the consequences might be.
Overall, I believe that, people have to give a serious thought about the consequences of their actions. This not only results in increasing the level of efficiency, but also helps to prevent any unwanted outcome. But, there are certain cases where it is always advisable to trust one’s instincts rather than a serious planning in the matter.