"Of two evils, choose neither."

When faced with two unpleasant options, the core idea is to refuse both and seek a better alternative. This advice encourages us not to settle for less than what we deserve or accept something harmful just because it seems like the only choice. It's a call to think creatively and strive for a solution that aligns with our values and well-being.

This saying has roots in moral philosophy and is often attributed to Charles Spurgeon, a 19th-century British preacher. Spurgeon was all about making ethical decisions and maintaining one's integrity, even when the choices presented seemed limited. He believed in the power of not compromising one's principles.

Imagine you're at work, and you're given two projects to manage. Both come with tight deadlines and unrealistic expectations. You know that either choice will lead to burnout and poor results. Instead of picking the lesser of two evils, what if you spoke up? Talked to your boss and explained the situation? You might propose a third option—like reallocating resources or extending deadlines—that's better for both you and the company. By refusing to choose either of the initial projects, you're standing up for your well-being and maintaining your professional integrity.

Want some advice on how to apply this? First, recognize situations where you're presented with only undesirable choices. Take a step back and assess the situation. Think about your core values and what you'd ideally want. Communicate your concerns clearly and propose a viable alternative. This might be tough at first, but staying true to your principles is worth it. Over time, you’ll build a reputation for integrity and creative problem-solving.

Let's put this into a relatable scenario. Picture a young woman, Sarah, who's juggling a demanding job and night classes for her degree. Her boss approaches her with two new projects, both requiring extra hours. Sarah knows that taking on either project means sacrificing her studies or her health. Instead of picking one and suffering through it, she decides to have a candid conversation with her boss. She explains her situation, suggesting that another colleague might better handle one project and proposing a timeline extension for the other. Her boss appreciates her honesty and willingness to find a solution that works for everyone. Sarah avoids burnout, continues to excel in her studies, and maintains her work performance.

So, next time you're staring down two bad options, remember Spurgeon's wisdom. Don't feel cornered into making a choice that compromises your well-being or values. Take a moment to think, speak up, and find a better path. It’s not always easy, but it’s a powerful way to live with integrity and creativity.