PATHFINDING

PATHFINDING is surprisingly not defined as a common word outside of specialized use by a number of dictionaries. The most common definition of PATHFINDING I found was in computing where it refers to the plotting of the best route between two points using computer applications. I also found a definition in biology about finding a path to a destination, such as by neuronal axons or developing cells.

Although PATHFINDER was commonly defined as a person who makes or finds a way, especially through unexplored areas or fields of knowledge, there were few direct definitions of PATHFINDING.

But it seems like we spend a lot of time in PATHFINDING – What choices should we make in a series that will get us to a destination we desire, whether literally or figuratively?  How do we put information together so others can find it – perhaps we are finding the path for others to use, perhaps we are finding the path others use so we can be there when needed.

For GUIDANCE on PATHFINDING, when asked for a SUGGESTION based on COMPARISON of alternative paths, my “JUST IN CASE” answer is often “You don’t pick your solutions, you pick your problems” --- this is really an approach of looking at the issue from a different perspective, paying attention to the journey instead of the destination. Much of PATHFINDING is about the path along the way – what route is the safest, fastest, most rewarding, most comfortable, most efficient, etc. – especially if you will spend most of your time on the way there. After all life is a journey, not a destination.