What’s it like when you are making an important decision? Do you usually take time to weigh both sides of the issue, thinking about details, nuances, and the implications of all of it for the future? Or, do see a couple of very clear options, make a choice, and you’re done? Or, is it both? Or, is it something between the two? Some of both are usually in the mix. No one uses purely one style or the other.
Whatever your style, it’s not only important to make decision sin a timely way but also to be sure that the action is well considered.
Though variations of both styles are good, there is a “dark side” to each. In the extremes or when people are under pressure, those who tend to make quick decisions may be at risk for being impulsive. Those who are more thoughtful and reflective may be at risk for making a decision too slowly or needlessly postponing it.
Here’s tip #4: When making decisions, balance thought and action.
When making decisions, especially a big ones:
- Consult someone whose approach to decision-making is different from yours. If you tend toward a slower, more reflective, and thoughtful approach, consult someone who can work with you to reduce the issues to its lowest terms, thus make a timely decision. If you tend to make decisions quickly, consult someone who can work with you to think through some of the nuances, details, other alternatives, and the implications of each of these, thus helping you to take well-considered action.
- Write it down. If you tend to see a decision as complex, record your thoughts about it as they come to you. Chances are good that you will return to your list of issues after a while and determine that some items don’t matter as much as you thought. Don’t erase or delete. Strike through. This will help you to reduce the decision to its lowest terms on your own.
- See “those people” as allies and assets. It’s easy to get frustrated with people who make decisions differently than we do. They move faster than we want or slower than we want. See this difference as an asset which helps the team to make a decision in a timely way but also to be sure that the action is well considered. Add your strength to theirs and all will come out better for it.
What is your approach to big decisions?
How is it working for you?
