The Jordan Harbinger Show

378: Steven Johnson | How We Make the Decisions That Matter the Most

Jul 16, 2020
Steven Johnson, a best-selling author and host of the Fighting Coronavirus podcast, dives into the nuances of decision-making. He discusses the inadequacies of traditional methods, like the pros and cons list, and suggests structured approaches for complex choices. Johnson introduces the concept of the 'premortem' to enhance decision quality and explores how AI can assist in predicting outcomes. The importance of diverse perspectives and storytelling in decision-making is also highlighted, making for a compelling discussion on improving our cognitive strategies.
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INSIGHT

Limited Deliberation

  • Most decisions are made with limited information and deliberation, rather than careful analysis.
  • People often artificially constrain their choices to a binary "whether or not" decision.
ADVICE

Mapping Decisions

  • Incorporate distinct phases into your decision-making process. Start by mapping the variables and expanding your options beyond a simple "yes/no" choice.
ANECDOTE

The High Line Example

  • The High Line in Manhattan exemplifies successful option generation, transforming an abandoned rail line into a popular park.
  • Initially, the only options considered were demolition or letting it decay.
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