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Decision-Making Tips
Decision-Making Tips
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Have you ever taken a child into a toy store and ask him to pick just one toy? Or have you stared at a buffet table so full of goodies that you didn't know where to start? If you struggle with decision making its possible you've been approaching it all wrong. That probably won't matter much if you are trying to decide what to eat or what program to watch on T.V. But if you are considering something more important, such as which house to buy, you may want to be sure and make the right choice.
For every decision there are 3 basic steps: (a) exploration, (b) integration, and (c) commitment. Exploration involves determining exactly what decision needs to be made. Explore all of your options by gathering relevant and accurate information. Maybe the reason you can't decide which new car to buy is that you are not convinced you really need a new car right now. So the first question is do I need a new car?
With the next step, integration, you will ask questions to find out how each choice will factor into your life. Do you rely on your car to get to and from work? Is your car in need of repair? Is the warranty about to expire? These questions and more can help you narrow down the best option.
Commitment, the final step, comes when the question is answered: Yes, I really need a new car. And when you've reached a decision, commit to do whatever it takes to make it happen, while understanding that even the best decisions have an element of risk.
No matter how uncomfortable or unsure you feel making decisions, if you'll take time to explore, integrate and commit, you can feel confident that you've made the best choice.
I'm psychologist Richard Flanagan.