Decision making can be defined as the ability to choose one thing over another. Making decisions, whether big or small, is an integral part of daily life. The art of decision making begins with the smallest of all things that we do in our daily lives. when making a decision one has to consider how comfortable or fulfilling will the outcomes be. When adulting we tend to settle on the most available, taking the easiest routes even when we know that it doesn’t fit us. Good decision-making skills can lead to better outcomes and greater satisfaction in both personal and professional realms. On the other hand, bad decisions bring regrets, pain and depression depending on the weight of its effect to our live, Here are some practical tips to help you enhance your decision-making abilities:
- Understanding the situation
Acknowledging the current situation factored during the time of decision making is important for one to know the next move they need to take.
- being open minded and well informed
gathering all the necessary information related to the decision one wants to make is vital. This is clearly related with when accepting a job offer, choosing a religion, a course or even a place to stay.
In as much as rigidity should be applied in decision making open mindedness is also important in view of possibilities of better chances. Your mind shouldn’t be so fixed on referrals that you would not be able to see available opportunities. Explore multiple alternatives before making a decision. Brainstorm different options and evaluate each based on your gathered information and listed objectives.
- Independency
You can let all things slip away but not this. Independency in decision making for me is everything. This is when you are able to make a decision on your own. Advises and talks from the surrounding should only act as some guidelines on things to do but not the final word. At all times, decisions should be inspired by what you think and feel comfortable with. Standing by what you want without getting ashamed of it no matter how others view it should be everyone’s goal when settling on a certain path.
- Understanding your goals and objectives
Being able to understand what you want to achieve with your decision ensures that your choice aligns with your objectives. Ones referral list before making any form of a decision can always be the set objectives for the same.
- Consider the pros and cons
To assist on settling with a decision one can create what I call decision board where you can outline all the pros on the right side and the cons on the left before considering if the move is worth the risk.
- Applying decision making framework
Using a structured approach to decision making provides clarity and reduces complexity of the process, The SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) and the decision making tree can help one to understand the weight of a decision. This approach is almost similar to the previous one.
- Consider your values and beliefs
I should have said this right after independence but I guess am not late on it. Understanding your core values and beliefs and ensuring that your decisions align with them should be permanent to avoid internal conflicts which often lead to dissatisfaction and regret.
- Consultation and referrals
Having different perspectives about a choice you are about to make can provide valuable insights. This could be advise from friends, colleagues and family.it can also involve reading success stories and reviews on the same or discussing your decision with someone who has experience or expertise in the area.
- Take Your Time
Avoid rushing into decisions, especially significant ones. Give yourself adequate time to weigh your options. Set a deadline for your decision to avoid procrastination, but ensure it provides enough time for thorough consideration.
- Trust Your Intuition
While logic and analysis are important, your intuition can also be a powerful guide. Trust your gut feelings when they arise. Pay attention to your initial reactions and feelings about each option. Sometimes your subconscious mind picks up on important cues that your rational mind might miss.
- Reflect and Learn
After making your decision, take time to reflect on the outcome and the process. Learning from each decision helps improve future decision-making. Keep a decision journal where you record your decisions, the process you followed, and the outcomes. Analyze what worked well and what could be improved.
