“Second–order thinking is a method of thinking that goes beyond the surface level, beyond the knee–jerk reactions and short–term gains. It asks us to play the long game, to anticipate the ripple effects of our actions, and to make choices that will benefit us not just today but in the months and years to come. Second-order thinking demands we ask: ‘And then what?’”
“In our daily lives, we’re often driven by first–order thinking. We make decisions based on what makes us happy now, what eases our current discomfort, or satisfies our immediate desires. Second–order thinking asks us to consider the long–term implications of our choices to make decisions based not just on what feels good now but on what will lead to the best outcomes over time. In the end, second–order thinking is about playing the long game. It’s about choosing the ultimate goal over the immediate goal.”
This is a quote from The Great Mental Models, Vol 1: General Thinking Concepts. How would this apply to the cattle industry today?
In a world where people want instant results, second-order thinking makes you consider the long game. What is going to be profitable 5 or 10 years from now? How can we make our business succeed for our kids and grandkids to run someday?
There are many things that we could do in agriculture to be more profitable and successful. One easy example I can think of is to quit buying fat, overpriced bulls that are guaranteed to fall apart! The best way to do that is to avoid the high-pressure sales where these genetics are.
How about a less stressful, no-pressure way to buy bulls, where the genetics are guaranteed to make you money. Don’t think that exists? Come to one of the PCC™ bull sales and see for yourself!
If you attend one of our bull sales, I guarantee you will not be disappointed. This is definitely one of the highlights for me every year!