In our last post we looked at reasons leaders struggle to make decisions. Here is a clearly defined process to help you make more effective decisions.
Six Steps To Effective Decision Making
In order to overcome the challenges of putting off decisions, it’s helpful to have a system or process for making complex decisions. In his audio program, “The Time Of Your Life”, Anthony Robbins provides a six-step process to effective decision-making:
1. Get Clear On Your Outcome(s)
What is the specific result you are after? Why do you want to achieve it? Get clear on your outcomes and their order of importance to you. Be as specific as possible.
2. Define Your Options
Brainstorm all of your options, including those that initially sound implausible. There is a principle that says you need at least three options before you make a decision. The rule works as follows:
- One option is no choice.
- Two options is a dilemma.
- Three options is a choice.
Make sure you give yourself a true choice. Also, remember to include “doing nothing” as an option.
3. Identify The Consequences
What are the upsides and downsides of each option? What will you gain from each option? What will each option cost you?
4. Evaluate
Weigh the consequences of each option. Review your options and evaluate each of their upsides and downsides.
- What outcomes are affected?
- How important is each upside / downside in terms of meeting your outcomes (on a scale of 0-10)?
- What is the probability that the upside / downside will occur (0-100%)?
- What is the benefit or consequence if this option were to actually happen?
After completing this stage, you will be able to eliminate some options from your list.
5. Mitigate
Review the “downside” consequences for each of your remaining options. Then brainstorm alternative ways to eliminate or reduce the downside.
6. Resolve
Based on the most probable consequences, select the option that provides the greatest certainty you will meet your desired outcomes and goals.
- Select your best option and strengthen your resolve to make it work.
- Resolve that no matter what happens, this option will give you a win.
- Design your plan for implementation and then take massive action in order to attain your outcome.
Now that you have a system, get out there and make the decisions that lead to timely action for success!
A collaboration with David C Miller, Author of The Influential Actuary
I really like this step by step approach to making a decision probably because I struggle with that. I like how this makes it very concrete and a process, instead of something unclear that turns into high stress.
Alice: Yes, I find that whenever I have something that seems daunting, breaking it down into smaller steps can make it less stressful and more manageable.
I like this process you shared! Having a plan in place like this can help give direction and reduce overwhelm in both personal and professional decision making.
Jennifer: Glad you liked it! Any time you feel overwhelm in decision making (or projects), see if you can break it down into steps. Your favorite AI product can even help with that, suggesting smaller pieces or steps that you could use to approach it.
That goes well beyond the other methods:
– flip a coin
– pros and cons list
– Swat analysis
– call a friend
😉
Blog on !
Will do, Doug.