5 tips on how to make better decisions

We face a multitude of decisions every day. The decisions you have made will range from the trivial to crucial. What you decide can determine the kind of person you become later. Some decisions are big, others are small. Yet, the mere volume of decisions you face each day can feel overwhelming.

Here is a simple decision-making process that can help you make better decisions faster whenever you are stuck.

Be honest with yourself. Ask yourself two questions. What do I really want to do right now? Is that the best thing I can do right now? By answering these two questions honestly, you will gain clarity and confidence because being truthful with yourself is always empowering.

Deal with your emotions. Your emotions do have an impact on the decisions you make. This is not a bad thing. The key is to be able to identify and control your emotions. Good decision making is a combination of using your emotions and being rational. You should only include emotions that are directly related to the decision you are making.

Keep it simple. Do not make things complicated. For little decisions, run through the possible scenarios and make your best choice immediately. For bigger decision, list out the pros and cons for each decision, get advice from a few mentors, and then take action.

Move quickly. Most decisions, even big ones, should be made quicker rather than slower. Don’t drag your feet, look back, or wonder. These, however should not be rash decisions. Even big important decisions can be made within a couple of weeks once you gather enough facts. Spending too much time contemplating a single decision leads to wasted energy and second guessing. Choice becomes a decision when implementation takes place. Focus your time, energy, self, and purpose on the decision.

Create an action plan. Once you have decided what you are going to do, you should write out steps to actually implement it. Your action plan should include the your step-by-step approach, your timeline for implementing your solution, and how you will include any other people who may be impacted by your decision.