Do not misuse your conceptual images of things, lest you are forced to make a wrong use of the things themselves. For if a man does not first sin in his mind, he will never sin in action. (Maximos the Confessor)

A simple system that I use for engaging what Maximos offers is to apply OODA or Observation, Orientation, Decision, and Action with the best discipline I can.

What do I observe? What is real?

What orientation influences my observation? What are my biases, predispositions, my conceptual images that might obscure accurate observation? How do the orientations of others influence their observations?

Based on what is real, what is needed? What is realistic? What would best advance strong relationships and sustainably good outcomes? What is my decision? What is the group's decision? It is helpful to recognize what we are deciding so that we can be responsible for the decision.

Then I should act in accordance with this considered understanding of reality and conscious choice.