I’ve heard countless horror stories about people falling for so many scams, and I almost became a victim myself. In these days, it’s more important than ever to “do your own math.” Scams are everywhere, from phishing emails to fake investment schemes, and they all prey on our trust and desire for quick solutions.
Take, for example, the infamous “tech support” scam. A friend of mine got a call claiming there was a virus on her computer. The caller sounded so convincing that she almost handed over her credit card details. If she had only paused to verify the claim on her own—to do her own math—she would have recognized the red flags.
Or my homie who invested in a too-good-to-be-true cryptocurrency scheme. The website looked professional, and the returns were promised to be astronomical. But a little due diligence, a bit of personal math, would have revealed the inconsistencies and saved him thousands of dollars.
Symbolically, “doing your own math” means looking both ways before crossing the street. It’s about taking a moment to analyze, verify, and question everything before making a decision. In today’s digital age, it’s easy to get swept up by persuasive posts or slick online presentations. But remember, a quick glance at both directions can prevent you from walking into traffic.
Think of doing your own math as building a fortress around your decisions. Each calculation, each verification step, adds another layer of protection. Just as a troubleshooter methodically isolates and solves problems, you too must dissect and scrutinize the information you come across or presented.
“Do your own math” means not taking things at face value. It means questioning, verifying, and cross-referencing information. It’s about understanding the details yourself rather than relying on others’ interpretations.
Consider the parable of the blind men and the elephant. Each man touches a different part of the elephant and concludes it is something different—a wall, a rope, a tree. Only by combining their perspectives—by doing their own collective math—do they understand the true nature of the elephant. This is the Life of a Troubleshooter. Collective wisdom. Similarly, we must gather and verify various pieces of information to see the full picture.
Tips to avoid scams:
1. Verify the Source: Always check the authenticity of the person or organization contacting you.
2. Ask Questions: Scammers often falter when you probe deeper into their claims.
3. Cross-Check Information: Use multiple sources to verify the facts.
4. Pause and Reflect: Never make decisions in haste, especially when pressured.
To embody “The Life of a Troubleshooter,” you need to be vigilant, skeptical, and thorough. Troubleshooters don’t take shortcuts—they investigate, validate, and ensure every detail checks out. In your life, approach each potential scam or too-good-to-be-true offer with the same rigor. Doing your own math is not just a safeguard—it’s a mindset that empowers you to navigate the complexities of modern life with confidence and clarity.
