Decision making Quote by Bill Burnett
““The key to step three is to make discerning decisions by applying more than one way of knowing, and in particular not applying just cognitive judgment by itself, which is informed but not reliable on its own. We aren’t suggesting making only emotional decisions, either. We all have examples of emotions getting people in trouble (though usually those are impulse emotions, and that’s a very different thing), so we’re not saying to swap your brain for your heart or your gut. We’re inviting you to integrate all your decision-making faculties, and to be sure you make space so your emotional and intuitive ways of knowing can surface in the process. In other words, don’t forget to listen to your knee or your gut or your heart, too.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Designing Your Life, 2016
Encourages integrating rational analysis with emotional intuition, using multiple ways of knowing to make balanced decisions rather than relying solely on cognition or feeling.
In simple terms: Combine logic and gut feelings for better choices.
Key Takeaway
Blend head and heart when deciding.
Themes
decision‑making
balance
intuition
Mood
thoughtful
practical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career planning
- relationship choices
- creative projects
- risk assessment
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
emotional intelligence
dual‑process theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you ignored your intuition?
- How can you create space for both analysis and feeling?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on any single mode can still lead to bias or paralysis.
