We make decisions every day. Some can be extremely important, while others tend to be trivial in the long run.
When it comes to making decisions, choosing the right one can at times be stressful, especially if the decision must be made quickly.
Indecision often weighs us down, but there are some useful tips to make those quick decisions a little bit easier.
Have a Plan
Sometimes the key to making a quick decision comes down to planning beforehand for just such an occasion. We all know we’re going to come to a critical decision-making point sooner or later, so having a plan already in hand can set our mind at ease when that time comes.
Business writer Suzy Welch has written a book about the process of decision-making and a specific plan called the 10-10-10 method. The plan is pretty simple–all you have to do when confronted with a decision is ask yourself what you’ll feel like 10 minutes from now, 10 months from now, and 10 years from now. In this way, you get a perspective on how important the decision is and what effect you feel the decision will make on your immediate and distant future.
Overcoming Fear
Oftentimes, one factor that keeps us from making decisions is fear, specifically fear over making the wrong choice. While it may seem difficult to do, many experts agree that we shouldn’t be afraid to make the wrong decision, even if it seems important. The vast majority of wrong decisions can be corrected, while delaying a decision can often lead to more problems.
Pros & Cons
Another important step in making a quick decision is a pretty basic one. Writing down all the pros and cons, even if you don’t have all the information, can be a good starting point for figuring out what to do. In cases where there simply isn’t enough time to write things down, make a mental list in your mind. Visualizing the pros and cons can help organize your thoughts and lead you to a clear answer.
This step can often go hand-in-hand with the 10-10-10 method. Look at your pros and cons list and think of the effects the results of your decision could have in the future. As Nu Skin’s “The Source” explains, decision makers need to explore all the positive and negative future benefits of a decision for them and for those around them before coming to an ultimate conclusion.
Determine Criteria
Remember that every decision you make should come with a certain set of criteria. The list of criteria may be short or quite extensive, but once you know the requirements you’re looking for, making a decision should come easier. Look for the choice that satisfies the list you’ve made, and once that choice is found, you should feel comfortable moving ahead with it.
Whatever method you use, the important thing is to always be ready to make a decision. Success requires action, and many people who agonize over decisions often miss opportunities they regret not taking. Just remember that being decisive can lead to lots of productivity and have a powerful impact throughout your life.
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Written on 3/13/2014 by Robert Cordray. Robert Cordray is a former business consultant and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience and a wide variety of knowledge in multiple areas of the industry. He currently resides in the Southern California area and spends his time helping consumers and business owners alike try to be successful. When he’s not reading or writing, he’s most likely with his beautiful wife and three children. |
Photo Credit: Garrett Coakley
