From Doubt to Confidence: How Descartes’ Method Can Help You Make Better Decisions

Turn Uncertainty into Your Greatest Ally with Lessons from a 17th-Century Genius

Do you ever feel paralyzed by doubt, unable to decide what to do next? You’re not alone. In fact, René Descartes built his entire philosophy on the power of doubt—not as a weakness, but as a tool for finding truth and making wise choices. His Meditations offer a step-by-step guide for clearing away confusion and building rock-solid confidence.

Step one: question everything. Descartes began by doubting all his beliefs, even the most basic ones. This radical approach is like rebooting your mental computer, clearing away viruses and outdated programs. Only when you’ve stripped away the questionable can you see what is truly certain.

Step two: trust only what is clear and distinct. Descartes’ rule is simple: if an idea is as clear as a mathematical truth, you can rely on it. In decision-making, this means pausing to clarify your values and priorities before acting.

Step three: recognize the limits of your knowledge. Descartes warned that error happens when we let our will outrun our understanding. In practical terms, don’t rush big decisions. Gather information, reflect, and act only when you have clarity.

By following these steps, you transform doubt from a stumbling block into a stepping stone. You become less reactive, more intentional, and more resilient in the face of uncertainty.

For more on Descartes’ method and its applications in self-improvement, see 1 , 4 .