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What is Counterfactual Thinking?

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Counterfactual thinking is a common type of thought pattern that goes back in time to evaluate choices and actions that weren't made. It is typified by questions like "what if I had ..."
As a time horizon passes, choices that were once available may become impossible. Counterfactual thinking is the practice of examining the impossible to extract insights that can be applied elsewhere. In other words, evaluating past possibilities can have value in improving future decision making or solving a problem.
Overview: Counterfactual Thinking
Function
Problem Solving
Decision Making
Definition (1)
Considering how the past might be been different in order to develop insight into present decisions and problems.
Definition (2)
Contemplating the universe of paths not taken.
Value
Considering how past possibilities might have worked out may provide insights that can be applied to future choices.
Common Pitfalls
Dwelling on the past or focusing on regrets over positive forward looking actions.
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