Decisions are 90% emotional no matter how logical we think we are. We are much better at rationalizing our decisions that we made with emotions than thinking all the options through in the first place. Therefore, it is important to have tools and processes to help us make choices. Below are the four of the most common questions I ask my coaching clients about decision making:
1. What do you need to know (information about the past, present, and future) before you can make a wise decision?
2. Who do you know has made this type of decision in the past? They might provide some perspective and insight you do not have.
3. Why is it so hard for you to decide? What do you feel is at stake, really? Do you fear something intangible, such as a loss of control? What is the worst that would happen if you are wrong? Are you afraid of embarrassment, that people will question your competence? Are you procrastinating because you believe something could be better around the corner? Get the truth out on the table so you can factor this into your decision-making.
4. If there were no consequences for your decision, what would you choose? Know that this choice will haunt you if you decide against it. You may need to seek a compromise you haven’t yet considered.
You definitely want to put a deadline on yourself for making a decision. However, be sure to give your brain some processing time. Great solutions come when you are taking a shower, playing a sport, or distracted by something you love. This gives your brain time to make connections that you cannot force by worrying and pondering. Let your wisdom bubble up. You might discover an answer you had not considered.
