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In the Blink of a Thought In "Blink," author Malcolm Gladwell explores "post-modern" decision-making. In modernism, we decided based upon logic: the analysis of factual data, as much of it as we could gather. In post-modernism, we decide based upon the synthesis of sensed experience, as small a slice as we can focus upon. Fortunately, Gladwell does not lean exclusively toward an either/or approach. That is, he recognizes the necessity of facts, while emphasizing the way the brain works to process information. What Gladwell writes in pithy narrative, psychologists have discussed for decades in what is known as HIPT: Human Information Processing Theory. Their model overlaps with Gladwell's main focus: to make wise decision we need the ability to think holistically-to envision seemingly disconnected puzzle pieces as a beautiful mosaic. I've applied his thinking to areas as diverse as a fantasy baseball auction draft, to a counseling session. In fantasy baseball, I've always been the most informed participant in our group of 14 grown-men who spend a day in April acting like boys. However, Gladwell helped me to detect my "information overload." I had all the facts, ALL the facts, but not enough of the feel. Not enough of the intuitive sense that gathered the data, related it to our group, and adjusted quickly to changing scenarios. As a professional counselor and counselor educator, I've always practiced and taught that we must add relational competence to our theoretical understanding. We must skillfully intuit what is happening in me, in my counselee, and in our relationship. In essence, this is counseling by "blink." For those who desire more (and in some cases more accurate) information on how the brain functions and how we can discipline our minds and emotions so that we relate well and think with discernment, I would recommend Daniel Goleman's now classic work, "Emotional Intelligence." Use it hand-in-hand with "Blink" and you just might win your fantasy baseball league! Reviewer: Dr. Bob Kellemen, author of "Soul Physicians: A Theology of Soul Care and Spiritual Direction" and "Spiritual Friends: A Methodology of Soul Care and Spiritual Direction."