Get it gone. Clear it out. Maybe even make things easier.

The Mathnificent WoW on March 7th was substitution. At first blush, the action of substitution seems to be used in a very similar way to this method of elimination, but just as the common definitions of the words substitute and eliminate are not the same, their mathematical actions are used differently, too. While the former is about repositioning the elements so that their values are redistributed across two equations that are being solved for, the latter is outright ixnay’ing that element – that variable – outta there, with the overall goal of making a process or a system easier and, ultimately, solvable.

We are in the heart of spring cleaning season right now, a tradition dating back to biblical times and across many cultures. Now’s the time to not only eliminate that which is of no use to you anymore, but to eliminate in order to clear out the space.

In linear algebra, the elimination method is specifically used when you’re trying to solve two equations simultaneously. The thing to determine before you kick that variable outta there is understanding that variable’s value in order for you to determine if – by sweeping it out the door – you’ll have made the overall process or system easier (in terms of coming to a conclusion, an end). I think this is a great way to consider using it IRL, too.

So, it’s not about cleaning out that one junk drawer in the kitchen. I mean, go ahead, do that, it’s a great feeling of accomplishment, for sures. This elimination would have a broader reach. As in – this type of elimination is more about kicking a habit that not only gets your health back on track but may also solve some other things, like perhaps some not great relationship patterns.

One stone, two birds – or maybe even all the birds! Hrrrmm, I think I want to get that ol’ idiom out of my lexicon. I really don’t have a problem with birds.