Abraham Lincoln is quoted as saying, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.”
Unfortunately, like many quotes attributed to famous figures, a quick Google search reveals he didn’t say this…
Either way, the sentiment is what’s important.
It can take a lot of time to define a problem or work out the best path forward.
This process is commonly called “thrashing” because it can feel really tough when you’re in the middle of it.
We have a tendency to lean out when it becomes too mentally draining, but when we lean into the thrashing, we will more likely emerge with greater clarity.