Are You a "Thinker" or a "Doer"?

Everyday, we are faced with many decisions. These decisions present two options: we can act on a problem or think, yet do nothing.

            I would not consider myself to be an impulsive person. Nor would I consider myself to be a person who merely stands by and misses an opportunity for self-advocacy. Therefore, I believe I am both a thinker and a doer.

            When I am presented with a problem, I first choose to consider my options. I thoroughly consider all of my options and try to choose the one with the most possible positive consequences and the least possible negative consequences. This is because I tend to say things that I don’t really mean whenever I get angry or upset. Personally, I need some time to calm down in order to make a rational decision. However, once I have time to calm down, I act on my decision. I think that it’s important to stand up for myself and others when someone is taking advantage of other people. This is a frequent occurrence in an academic setting, where some people try to back away and force other group members to do all of the work. In this instance, I believe it is appropriate to say something and let the slacking group member know that they are expected to help out.

            I think that people who are quiet are given the reputation of being too submissive. However, I think that these people actually make many rational decisions. Sometimes, even if someone is being rude, it is better to not say anything. In some occasions, making a comment will just cause unnecessary drama. This is an instance where I think it is better to be the more mature person and just let things go.

            That’s why I think it is important to be both a thinker and a doer. The “thinker” side of a person makes a rational, informed decision, while the “doer” side acts on the decision.