5 ways to improve decision making

Nobody can make decisions for you, but if you want to find a better way to go about making those decisions, here are 5 things you should think about.

Remember that all decisions are not created equal: There are decisions worth spending a lot of time on, and there are those we shouldn’t waste any on. The key here is figuring out how to tell the difference. Think about past decisions you’ve made and decide if it’s really worth the time you’re giving it.

Change your perspective: You ever notice how it’s easier to give advice than take it? This is because we like to get in our own way. From an outside perspective things can seem cut-and-dry. When we look at it from our own point of view, things aren’t as clear. Sometimes, it helps to step away from the situation, make someone else the focal point, and decide the best course of action for that person.

Pros and cons: So, you probably just said “duh” in your head, but how often do you actually go through the process of listing pros and cons? Probably not often. You may be focusing on a single pro (or con) and that focus can lead you astray. Listing pros and cons can help reveal the clearest picture, which is ideal when you’re making a big decision.

Bounce it off someone: Whether at home or the office, you don’t have to make every decision on your own. Find a trusted friend or colleague and find out their thoughts on the situation. They may see things you don’t, and you’ll be glad when they point out something you never thought of.

Look at your options: If you choose A, what effect will that have? If you choose B, what effect will that have? Sometimes your decisions will have lasting effects on other areas, and you need to see that in the big picture before you can evaluate the situation properly.