Whenever you're called on to make up your mind, and you're hampered by not having any, the best way to solve the dilemma, you'll find, is simply by spinning a penny. No - not so that chance shall decide the affair while you're passively standing there moping; but the moment the penny is up in the air, you suddenly know what you're hoping
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Tossing a coin reveals your true preference through your reaction.
- In plain terms
- Spinning a penny helps you know what you really want.
- What can you take from it?
- Your emotional reaction to chance shows your true choice.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What do you hope for when the penny is up?
- Why do you hesitate?
Another view
Relying on chance avoids taking responsibility for the decision.
More from Piet Hein
The universe may be as great as they say. But it wouldn't be missed if it didn't exist.
Permalink to quote #16 Co-existence or no existence.
Permalink to quote #18 Freedom means you're free to do just whatever pleases you; --if, of course that is to say, what you please is what you may.
Permalink to quote #15
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