Decisions – I make thoughtful decisions

Introduction

By making one decision when you had other options, you are saying yes to one and no to the others. Always consider all your options as far as possible but don't wait too long. We are faced with choices daily, and we must make the right decisions. Unfortunately, decision making is not something that people are comfortable doing, and many people, want others around them to make decisions instead. The great news is that decision making is a skill that can be developed, and anyone can become a great decision-maker. By making the best possible considered decision at the time, you can live more easily with the outcome because you know you gave it your all. Every decision has an impact on your life and your work.

Benefits of thoughtful decision making

1. Good decisions can save you time and money.

2. Thoughtful decisions will lead to a more productive life.

3. When the wrong decision is made, we know we did our best and can let it go.

Skill example

A customer was shouting at me. I knew I could either shout back or actively listen to them and apologise for what happened and work out a solution together. I chose to actively listen and find a solution together. Now that customer is my best customer. 

Gloria's story

Gloria lives in Durban and works in Pinetown. She must travel a distance every morning and leaves home early. It would be easier for Gloria to move to Pinetown so that she can be more relaxed at work, instead of the anxiety associated with getting to work each day. Gloria is also getting older now, and she could use the extra rest instead of leaving home at 5:00 am.

Gloria learned skills in decision making during a training session at work, so she uses those skills to assess what options she has. The things that she must consider are accessibility to school, accessibility to a hospital for her ageing mother, rent costs and travel expenses, should she relocate. She carefully does a step by step analysis of the options she has against the cost factors.

Gloria approaches her line manager and speaks to him about a possible transfer to the Durban branch close to her home. Given Gloria's long working history and a great reputation with the company, her request to a transfer is granted. Gloria was thankful that she considered her options before just moving to Pinetown as this would cost her far more in the long run. She is pleased that she put her decision-making skills to good use.

How to make decisions

Making decisions is an important part of daily life. Here are some tips to help you make decisions:

1. Define the decision: Clearly define the decision you need to make. This will help you focus your thinking and avoid getting sidetracked by irrelevant information.
2. Gather information: Collect relevant information that will help you make an informed decision. This may include research, asking for advice, or gathering data.
3. Identify your options: List all the possible options available to you. Consider the pros and cons of each option, and evaluate how well they align with your goals and values.
4. Evaluate the options: Consider the potential outcomes of each option. This may include considering the short-term and long-term consequences, weighing the risks and benefits, and evaluating the potential impact on others.
5. Make a decision: Once you have evaluated your options, make a decision based on the information and analysis you have conducted. Trust your instincts and use your judgement to make the best decision for you.
6. Take action: Once you have made a decision, take action to implement it. This may involve communicating your decision to others, taking steps to implement the decision, and being open to adjusting your approach if necessary.

Remember that decision-making is a skill that can be improved with practice. By defining the decision, gathering information, identifying your options, evaluating the options, making a decision, and taking action, you can make more informed and effective decisions.