The author of the text draws inspiration from psychologist Daniel Kahneman's book "Thinking, Fast and Slow" to describe the nature of product management work. The book highlights the brain's two distinct modes of thought: System 1 (fast, automatic, and impulsive) and System 2 (slow, conscious, and deliberative). The author sees a metaphor between these two systems and the different tasks faced by product managers, who must balance repetitive System 1 tasks with more complex System 2 tasks. Being aware of the two modes of thought helps identify the risk of fast System 1 reactions that can lead to faulty assumptions, while also giving confidence in relying on those instincts. The author provides guidelines for leveraging each system effectively: trusting System 1 for quick and repetitive tasks, and protecting and controlling System 2 for more complex tasks requiring careful consideration and analysis. This awareness helps make the right decisions, boost productivity, save energy, and ultimately leads to a better work-life balance.