"El problema de la mayoría de las personas es que piensan con sus esperanzas o miedos o deseos en lugar de con sus mentes."

People often let their emotions—hopes, fears, wishes—cloud their judgment. This can lead to decisions that aren’t rational or well thought out because they're driven more by how we feel rather than what makes logical sense.

Now, let’s set the scene a bit. Imagine a conversation from the 20th century, where someone is frustrated with the irrational decisions of those around them. They might drop this line to make a point about how important it is to think clearly and logically, rather than letting emotions steer the ship.

Think about this in a real-world context. Picture a friend who’s absolutely terrified of flying. They've got a crucial job interview across the country, and it's the opportunity of a lifetime. But fear grips them—they can't get past the thought of being in that plane. So, they decide to drive for days on end instead of taking a two-hour flight. This decision, driven by fear, isn't rational. It's not efficient, and it actually puts more stress on them. If they were thinking logically, they'd see that statistically, flying is much safer and far more convenient. But their fear overtakes rationality.

So, what should you do to avoid this trap? Start by recognizing when emotions are taking the wheel. When you’re making a decision, take a step back and ask yourself: Am I basing this on fear, hope, or wishful thinking? If the answer is yes, try to strip away those emotions and look at the facts. What’s the logical choice here? Sometimes it helps to talk it out with someone who's more detached from the situation—someone who can see the forest for the trees.

Alright, let’s dive into a more relatable story. Imagine you’re in love. Your partner, though charming, has a history of making poor financial decisions. They come up with a wild investment idea that sounds risky. Your heart says yes, because you want to support them and you believe in their dreams. But your mind—the rational part of you that understands financial stability—is screaming no. What do you do? If you think with your heart, you might find yourself in a world of financial trouble later on. But if you think with your mind, you can discuss the risks openly, perhaps guiding your partner to a more secure investment. It’s tough love, but it’s the rational path.

In applying this concept to your life, practice mindfulness. Pay attention to your emotional triggers. When you’re making a decision, jot down the pros and cons, and see if they’re driven by emotional responses or logical thinking. It might feel a bit clinical at first, but over time, it becomes second nature.

Remember, we’re all human. We’re wired to feel deeply, but sometimes those feelings can lead us astray. By being aware of this tendency and actively working against it, you can make choices that are smarter and more grounded in reality. It’s all about balance—acknowledging your emotions but not letting them dictate your path.