Tuesday, August 30, 2011

The correct way to do it.

I took a child to the doctor for wart removal some time ago.  The doctor pointed out that there are about a dozen approved treatments to treat warts.

"Which means, of course, that none of them are really good.  If there is a really good treatment, it becomes the treatment of choice".

Why aren't there dozens of books out there with the following titles?
  • A dozen different tools to drive a nail into wood.
  • Which way do you want to address your envelope?
  • Different solutions to 2+2.
  • Which way should you punctuate "I'm"?
  • How you should sit in a chair.
Right, because pretty much, if I have a nail, a hammer looks like a good tool for the job.

So, when we see hundreds, thousands, or even more titles in a "How to" section - that indicates that there is not just one solution that works for everyone.

Which sections of self-help guides are full of titles?
  • How to lose weight and stay in shape.
  • How to be an effective teacher.
  • How to be an effective learner.
  • How to be the most effective and loving parent.
  • How to have a happy and successful marriage.
There are some universal truths.  People like to be treated fairly and with respect.  People like to connect with other people.  People like to feel valued.  But, how to do that and achieve your goals will vary depending on the dynamics of the situation.

Suffice it to say, we should all recognize that there is no such thing as one size fits all education, parenting, or marriage.

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