In understanding how people approach tasks and decisions, we can observe a key difference: some prefer exploring various possibilities (Options), while others focus on following set methods (Procedures). This filter, known as the Operational Style by Michael Hall and Motivation Reason by Shelle Rose Charvet, plays a critical role in how we function across different areas of life.
Options and Procedures as Skills
Both ends of the spectrum offer valuable strengths. The ability to come up with different ways to complete a task (options) and the ability to design and follow a reliable sequence (procedures) are both practical skills. Think about how much of your daily routine depends on set habits—now ask yourself where you fall on the options-procedures scale.
Options-Oriented Individuals
People with an options-based mindset thrive on flexibility, creativity, and exploration. They see the world through a lens of choices and often resist limiting themselves to just one path. This mindset overlaps with the Perceiving trait from the Judging vs. Perceiving meta program.
They enjoy:
- Brainstorming and coming up with multiple ways to do something
- Designing new systems and strategies
- Breaking or bending rules to create more freedom
They often:
- Shop without a list, browsing for inspiration
- Start new projects with enthusiasm but may lose interest before finishing
- Modify existing systems to “make them better,” even if they already work fine
Common Pitfalls
- Struggle with following step-by-step instructions
- May change things unnecessarily, leading to inefficiency or instability
- Can find routine tasks tedious and resist doing things the same way repeatedly
- Sometimes avoid committing to one decision for fear of losing other possibilities
Procedures-Oriented Individuals
People who lean toward procedures seek structure, order, and repeatable processes. They value efficiency and reliability. For them, doing things the “correct way” is important, and they often prefer clear instructions and consistent outcomes.
They are typically:
- Methodical and systematic
- Goal-oriented and committed to completing tasks
- More comfortable with habits and routines
They might:
- Shop at regular times with a pre-written list
- Follow the same route or process every time
- Use step-by-step guides to learn or improve
Common Pitfalls
- May struggle to adapt when no clear process is available
- Can become stressed if routines are disrupted
- Might lack creativity in designing new methods or thinking outside the box
- Often believe there’s only one correct way to do something
When asked “Why did you choose this?”, they might tell the story of how the situation unfolded rather than sharing their personal criteria, e.g., “We had to move quickly, saw a few places, and this was available within our budget and timeframe.”
Balancing the Filter
No approach is inherently better than the other—each has its context. Options are ideal for innovation and brainstorming, while procedures are critical in areas requiring precision, safety, and consistency (e.g., medicine, aviation, manufacturing).
Telemarketing studies even show that salespeople with a procedures-based style tend to outperform options-minded sellers, mainly because they stick to proven scripts and methods.
Takeaway
Understanding whether you or someone else leans toward options or procedures can improve communication, task delegation, and collaboration. It can also help you develop the weaker side of the filter to become more adaptable.
