The choices we make define our lives, and the older we grow, the more we realize it. When you make a decision, you basically take a bet on the future version of you. That’s why it’s important to constantly work on yourself and improve your ability to make decisions. A time may come when you must make a split-second decision that will change your life forever.
Thousands of years ago, people needed to make fast decisions in order to stay alive. At that time, life literally depended on being able to make rapid choices. Things are much different today. Although we still need to make quick decisions, the requirements have significantly changed.
One of the reasons why quick decision-making is an essential skill is that it allows us to access information ahead of others, and it can help reduce stress. Delayed consideration and indecisiveness tend to evoke feelings of regret, anxiety, and fear. But if we are able to make choices quicker, there’ll be less time for such feelings to surface. Of course, this doesn’t mean that we should take action without careful consideration; it just means that we should be skilled enough to quickly choose the best possible options without undue delay. Keep reading to discover tips for great decision-making.
Consider The Legal And Financial Implications
Before making certain decisions, you must consider the legal implications. This is especially important when other people are affected or when you’re making a decision because of other people’s actions. For instance, if you were involved in an accident and you’re still conscious, the best action would be to take in as many details of the scene as possible. The evidence you gather or the information you learn can greatly affect how things turn out for you. The Barnes Firm, an accident attorney San Francisco, emphasizes that ”the circumstances surrounding an accident is crucial in negotiating with insurance companies.”
Similarly, if you are a business owner, you must understand the ethical and legal consequences of your business decisions. The ethical considerations are based on guiding principles of right or wrong, while the legal considerations are based on applicable laws and statutes guiding your industry and state. Look at the overall effect of your decision before going ahead with it or pulling the plug on it.
Look At It From Different Viewpoints
To gain a greater understanding of the challenge you are facing and come up with a smart and effective solution, try to consider your options from different viewpoints. This doesn’t mean that you should seek everyone’s opinion. It simply means that you should consult with those who have more experience than yourself or expertise in specific areas since they’ll most likely contribute in a meaningful way.
This practice will help you access technical knowledge you don’t have and give you a perspective beyond your own. You’ll also be able to gauge how your decision will play out politically. When you get the needed expertise, you’ll be able to articulate the different views, broaden your perspective, and make the best choice.
Tackle The Root Cause
Addressing the root cause of a problem is key to making sure it doesn’t reappear in the future. Before making a decision, especially in business, carry out a root cause analysis (RCA) so that you can be better equipped to identify appropriate solutions to them. It is more effective to systematically solve an underlying issue than to just treat the symptoms or put out fires. Of course, this doesn’t mean we should completely ignore the symptoms; we can handle them for short-term relief while trying to identify their root cause.
Remember, your goal in applying the RCA principle is not just to take care of the present issue but to prevent it from recurring. Aim to repeat the successes that you get from handling the current challenge and consider modifying your core processes and systems based on the lessons learned.
Be Accountable
Accountability is essential in decision-making. It makes you accept responsibility, account for your own actions, and determine a course of action. Holding yourself accountable entails managing your work and life tasks, fulfilling your obligations to your organization, customers, colleagues, or employer, and reflecting on your conduct. It also means accepting the outcomes of your decision-making processes and taking the initiative to make necessary future changes. If you hold yourself accountable, you’ll be able to set goals, prioritize them, and work towards achieving them. You’ll also be strengthening your foot as an effective leader.
