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  1. Cognitive Toolkit
  2. Problem Solving

Inversion Thinking

Reverse your thinking to move forward

Last updated 6 months ago

Inversion thinking is a powerful problem-solving technique that involves looking at a problem from the opposite perspective. Instead of focusing on how to achieve a desired outcome, it focuses on how to avoid a negative outcome. By identifying potential pitfalls and obstacles, we can take proactive steps to prevent them from happening.

For example, instead of asking "How can I become more productive?", we could ask "What is preventing me from being productive?". This shift in perspective can reveal hidden obstacles that we may not have considered otherwise.

Inversion thinking is a valuable tool for decision-making, problem-solving, and personal growth. It can help us to identify blind spots, avoid mistakes, and achieve our goals more effectively.

Further Reading

LogoInversionamrancz
LogoInversion and The Power of Avoiding StupidityFarnam Street
LogoInversion: The Crucial Thinking Skill Nobody Ever Taught YouJames Clear
Logo5 Mental Models That Will Take Your Leadership from Good to GreatThe Good Boss
LogoMental Models & Product #7: InversionMental Models & Product
LogoInversion Thinking: What It Is and How It Can Create Superior Decision OutcomesLinkedInEditors
LogoInversionhttps://modelthinkers.com/mental-model/inversion&type=share
LogoDon’t Try to Win: Using Inversion to Flip the Script on Your Trickiest ProblemsMedium
Image by
James Clear