How do we escape the trap of “analysis paralysis”?

It’s called the OODA LOOP

It was developed by military strategist and United States Air Force Colonel John Boyd to help pilots make faster and more effective decisions in combat situations.

The OODA loop is a decision-making process that consists of four steps:

1 | Observe:

• Collect data and information from your environment and your senses.

• Look for changes or anomalies in the situation.

• Pay attention to any potential threats or opportunities.

2 | Orient:

• Analyze and interpret the information you've gathered.

• Use your experience, knowledge, and intuition to form a mental model of the situation.

• Consider different perspectives and possible outcomes.

3 | Decide:

• Use your mental model to evaluate options and make a decision.

• Choose a course of action that is appropriate for the situation.

• Consider the potential risks and benefits of each option.

4 | Act:

• Implement your decision and take action.

• Observe the results of your actions.

• Update your mental model based on feedback from the situation.

Remember, the OODA loop is a continuous process, so after you act, you go back to observing and start the loop again.

This allows you to adapt and make changes as needed based on new information or feedback.

3 reasons why the OODA loop is so effective for people with ADHD:

Benefit | #1

It provides a clear structure

The OODA loop provides a step-by-step process that can help individuals with ADHD break down complex decisions into more manageable pieces. By following a structured approach, they can reduce the overwhelm and confusion that often come with ADHD.

Benefit | #2

It emphasizes quick decision-making: 

The OODA loop emphasizes making decisions quickly and adapting as new information becomes available. This can be helpful for individuals with ADHD, who may struggle with indecisiveness and can benefit from a sense of urgency in decision-making.

Benefit | #3

It encourages flexibility: 

The OODA loop emphasizes the importance of being adaptable and changing course when necessary. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with ADHD, who may have difficulty sticking to a plan and need to be able to adjust their approach as circumstances change.

I find the combination of the elements, STRUCTURE, DECISION-MAKING, and FLEXIBILITY, provide exactly what my ADHD brain needs to take action.

• I know it’s not FINAL.

• I know I have limited information available.

• I know I will get feedback on my action which will feed the loop.

• I know I couldn’t possibly have ALL available information.

• There is a sense of URGENCY to take action since with the loop visual of a wheel that needs to keep moving.

Go Deeper | Additional Resources

1. "The OODA Loop: A Comprehensive Guide" by Cleared to Engage: This article provides a detailed overview of the OODA loop, including its history, the four steps of the process, and how it can be applied in different contexts. It also includes examples of how the OODA loop has been used in military and business settings.

2. "The Art of Maneuver: Maneuver-Warfare Theory and Airland Battle" by William S. Lind: This book explores the theory behind the OODA loop and its use in military strategy. It delves into the history of military theory and offers insights into how the OODA loop can be used in modern warfare.

3. "The OODA Loop Explained" video by The Art of Manliness on YouTube: This video provides a clear and concise explanation of the OODA loop, using simple illustrations to help viewers understand the four steps of the process. It's a great resource for visual learners or those who prefer video content.