Reverse Thinking

by Flinkliv · Updated Oct, 25, 2023

  1. What is reverse thinking?
  2. Why is reverse thinking important?
  3. What are examples of reverse thinking?


What is reverse thinking?

Reverse thinking is a method of thinking where you state your problem in reverse.

Conversation between A and B about reverse thinking B:Reverse thinking is to describe a problem in reverse

Why is reverse thinking important?

When confronted with complex issues, conventional methods might not always cut it. That's where reverse thinking shines. By altering your perspective and asking counter-intuitive questions, you can break through mental barriers and discover innovative paths to success. Let's explore some real-world examples of reverse thinking in action.

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What are examples of reverse thinking?

Example of how to get a good job with reverse thinking:

Discovering the ideal course of study to secure a rewarding job opportunity can be daunting. However, there is a creative solution to this challenge: reverse thinking. The concept revolves around envisioning your desired occupation and then seeking out the educational path that leads you to it.

Conversation between A and B about how to get a good job with reverse thinking. Converaation between A and Ba bout reverse thinking A: I don’t know what to study to get a good job B: Use reverse thinking? A: What? B: Think about a good job, then look for the education that leads you to it A: Thanks

Example of how to succeed at work using reverse thinking:

Numerous individuals struggle with figuring out how to thrive in the workplace. In such cases, reverse thinking can be an invaluable tool. Take a moment to compile a list of factors that hinder your work, such as arriving late, delivering mediocre performance, experiencing conflicts with colleagues, failing to assist others, harboring a negative attitude, or refraining from offering solutions. Then, seize the opportunity to flip this list and do the opposite. By embracing this approach, you will significantly enhance your prospects for success at work.

Conversation between A and B about how to succeed at work using reverse thinking. A: I don’t know how to succeed at work B: How about reverse thinking? A: What do you mean? B: Well, think about a list of things that ruins your work, then do the opposite A: Oh! A: Late to work. … mediocre work. … not getting along with colleagues … not helping colleagues … negative attitude … not offering a solution … etc. B: Well, do the opposite of this list, and your chances to succeed at work will increase

Example of reverse thinking in the annual performance review:

Preparing for a yearly performance review requires a strategic approach, not last-minute scrambling. Adopting reverse thinking, you should avoid gathering achievements just before the meeting and plan well in advance instead. Approximately 10 months before the review, create a comprehensive list of tasks to boost your chances of earning a promotion, and diligently work on accomplishing them. By the time the review arrives, you will have ten months of well-thought-out preparation under your belt, and your progress may even catch your boss's attention. Embracing this proactive mindset can lead to a more successful and impactful performance evaluation.

Conversation between A and B about reverse thinking in the annual performance review. A: Tomorrow I have my yearly performance review B: And? A: I am gathering what I achieved to get my promotion B: Good luck, but for the next time, try reverse thinking A:What do you mean? B: Instead of gathering achievements just before the meeting … Prepare the meeting months before A: How? B: Let's say 10 months before the meeting, make a list of tasks that increases your chances to get a promotion, then work on it. When the time comes, you have 10 months of preparation. Your boss might even notice the progress as well.

Example of reverse thinking in turn crisis into opportunity:

Challenges in life don't shape our character; rather, they unveil it. Employ reverse thinking to welcome every opportunity that reveals who you truly are and strive to improve. Embrace these experiences as a chance to become the best version of yourself, unleashing your potential for growth and self-discovery.

Conversation between A and B about reverse thinking in turn crisis to opportunity. A: Sorry I lost my cool during the meeting (main characters walking out of the room, with just heads visible there is a clock on the hallway). It is cuz of those issues. B: Issues don't create the character; they reveal it. (characters keep walking). A: So, what am I supposed to do? B: Embrace this opportunity to get better. A: Ok. B: Get out of your comfort zone. A: Right. B: Become the best version of yourself (glowing eyes, stoping behind the green one). B: Don't push it (the blue one keep walking head down).

Example of reverse brainstorming

Reverse Brainstorming is a process that harvests our tendency to see problems more than solutions. Ask yourself what could go wrong, then reverse it to get the solution.

Conversation between A and B about reverse brainstorming. A: I am out of ideas B: Use reverse brainstorming B: Think what could go wrong then reverse it B: You never run out of things that can go wrong.