There are many ways to live life. Some people follow the measured approach. They aim to behave in a mature way. Sometimes this can involve being considered, caring and creative. This can have positive consequences for other people and the planet.
Some people follow the melodramatic approach. They can be moody and make their feelings the centre of the world. Some may do things that are uncaring and unconsidered – except for their own immediate gain. This can have negative consequences for other people and the planet.
Different people follow these approaches in different ways. Let’s explore how they may translate these into action and the effects they may have on other people.
The Measured Approach
There are many definitions and synonyms for being measured. These include the following.
People who follow the measured approach often have a clear philosophy. They feel passionately about things and believe in following certain principles. They have a sense of perspective, however, and this influences their behaviour.
They see themselves as small in the great sweep of history. They don’t see themselves as important, but they believe their actions have consequences. They therefore aim to do things that help people or the planet.
Such people make considered decisions. They start by focusing on clarity – the real results to achieve. They consider the choices, consequences and any creative solutions. They then pursue the route that is most likely to achieve the desired concrete results.
They often make evidence based rather than just emotional decisions. They do take emotions into account, however, when making certain kinds of decisions.
People who follow the measured approach actually find this can become more magical as they get older. They continue to develop and add to their knowledge as people and professionals.
They may also become more mellow as they get older. This does not diminish their passion, however, and they continue to try to do their best during their time on the planet.
The Melodramatic Approach
There are many definitions and synonyms for being melodramatic. These include the following.
People who follow this approach sometimes focus only on their own feelings and agenda. They may convince themselves that they are right – whilst others are wrong – and behave in ways that can create collateral damage.
Such people may live in their own world and lack empathy. They may refuse to take responsibility and look for ways to justify their own behaviour. They may then behave in even more extreme ways that can cause pain.
People continue to make decisions every day. They may do this as individuals, leaders or politicians. They can then choose to follow the measured approach or the melodramatic approach. The route they follow has consequences for other people and the planet.
Let’s return to your own life. Looking ahead, can you think of a situation where you may want to follow elements of the measured approach? This could in your personal or professional life.
How can you follow this approach in your own way? How can you maintain a sense of perspective? How can you make decisions and act in a measured way that, as far as possible, have positive consequences?
If you wish, try tackling the exercise on this theme. This invites you to complete the following sentences.
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