# Assess the Void By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2024-08-07 It is easier to attune to what is present than to what is absent. Noticing what is not there requires training one’s mind. Regarding assessment, one should attune to two types of things in particular: a) things one wouldn’t expect to see that are present, and b) things one would expect to see that are absent. Both can be revealing. This approach can be used in terms of data analysis and existence. Analytically, one can assess a data set and determine anomalies and omissions. Existentially, one can evaluate problems and privations. Seeing what is lacking is especially difficult and useful. It is incredibly challenging at beginnings. With time, one will certainly come to know what is lacking. It will start with a gnawing feeling that something is off. With more experience, that sense will start to take form. Eventually, it will be hard to ignore. What is lacking can be a motivating force. It can inspire a person to action. It can induce change. The change might be to improve one’s surroundings, relocate, or be self-directed. What is lacking is easy to miss. One can foresee issues by training one’s mind to search for omissions. Informed by this knowledge, one is better able to contend with reality. Some never come to an understanding; most understand things too late; a strategic few understand from the start. Each group can come to understand better. Like any skill, assessment is developed through focused practice. When starting something new, be sure to look for the things you wouldn’t expect and those you would expect that aren’t. Assess the void. #### Related Items [[Analytics]] [[Assessments]] [[Strategy]] [[Anomaly]] [[Omission]] [[Understanding]]