How do you perform better?

The German researcher Peter Gollwitzer, professor of psychology at the University of New York, has measured the ability of people in crisis situations. The remarkable result was that subjects responded impressively better to sudden problems if: they were somewhat prepared or had an expectation. During the Christmas period, Gollwitzer asked his students to write an essay about how they had experienced Christmas Eve. He asked the second group to perform the same task, except that he told them to think carefully about when and how they would write that assignment during the busy holiday season. Of the first group that had not received a warning, 33% completed their task within the set time. In the group that was advised to think about planning and organization, no less than 75% had completed their task within the set time. That is more than doubling the result. Preparation, providence & provision and expectation of crisis situations increases the chance of a successful response by 25 to even 75%. It’s called the if/then thinking of Gollwitzer. Planning and providence are not only very result-enhancing, but also save time and money.