Decision making is part of your daily routine at work, school, and at home or when you are planning for the future. At times, the sheer variety of tasks and responsibilities can leave you confused and overwhelmed. However, you can make the most appropriate decision by gathering useful information and giving yourself time to consider the positive and negative impacts of each of the available alternative solutions. In addition, you can make wise decisions if you ask for input from others to find out the impact that may occur in the future. Improved decision-making skills help you anticipate problems so you are better prepared to deal with them.
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Part 1 of 3: Using Logical Thinking
Step 1. Gather information related to the issue or problem at hand
Determine the things that need to be considered because they can influence the decision. Take the time to talk to the people involved in this issue to gather relevant information so you can make the right decisions. Do not make decisions based on incomplete information.
- Determine the important information you should know and consider before making a decision. Prioritize finding the most important information. For example, you are choosing a faculty to continue your education after graduating from high school. Before deciding, consider your area of interest, study performance, financial condition, and parental opinions.
- Set aside time to gather relevant information. Don't make decisions based on very little information.
- To keep you focused when looking for information, write down questions that need to be answered once you get the information.
Step 2. Don't make decisions impulsively or when you're overwhelmed with emotions
It could be that you make the wrong decision if you involve emotions when dealing with problems. Think calmly using common sense, instead of being rash. Consider relevant facts and information, instead of prioritizing egos, personal opinions, or fleeting desires.
- Making decisions when you're feeling anxious, confused, or upset can have dire consequences.
- Postpone making decisions if you realize that you are being controlled by emotions. Make sure you can think clearly and don't feel forced when making decisions. For example, you might say, "I'm not ready to make a decision yet. I need to think calmly to make my decision right."
Step 3. Think before you decide
Even if you want to make a decision right away, remember that there are many important things that need to be carefully considered and confirmed. Don't force yourself to make a decision if you're not ready.
- For example, a college friend invites you to go hiking for the weekend, but you have promised to teach your sister to play the guitar and have to finish a paper. Before responding to his invitation, consider the responsibilities that must be fulfilled.
- Depending on the issue or problem at hand, you may want to think 1-2 hours or more before making decisions that affect your daily life, but decisions that determine your future should be considered for several days/weeks.
Step 4. Consider the short-term and long-term impacts
Oftentimes, you only think about issues or problems that need to be addressed immediately and ignore the long-term impact. Careless thinking will have bad consequences in the future.
- For example, you just got paid. Right now, you're saving up to buy your dream car, but you want to have fun with friends. Even though you imagine how great it would be to have coffee or go to a concert with them, you decide not to join in order to save some money.
- Consider the possible risks if you don't consider the long-term impact. Maybe you can't buy a car when you need it or don't have the money to pay for an unexpected need.
Part 2 of 3: Considering Other Options
Step 1. Consider the positive and negative impacts that will occur
Whether you're looking to buy a product in a store, apply for a job, or choose a life partner, take the time to consider the positives and negatives of each option available. This step helps you make the most appropriate decision.
- Consider the impact of your decision on financial, professional, emotional, and physical health.
- For example, you buy new clothes every week to always look good, but this habit drains your income. Therefore, consider the impact of this habit on your financial condition and the benefits you get if you keep buying new clothes every week.
- Before making important decisions, write down the positive and negative impacts that may occur. For example, you want to change professions with a career in another field. Set aside sufficient time to gather information and consider this plan carefully before making a decision.
Step 2. Prioritize the activities that should come first
Before making a decision, sort the activity plan starting from the most important, then determine the activities that are the top priority. For example, list work or study activities in order to pass the exam in first place, then hang out with relatives or friends in second.
- For example, you've been invited to celebrate a close relative's birthday this weekend, but have an assignment due on Monday morning next week. You want to attend a birthday party, but the task is not done if you come to the party.
- Prioritize activities that have a more beneficial impact. You will most likely not be promoted or pass the exam if you are late for an assignment. The risk is not worth the benefits that will be obtained if you attend a birthday party.
Step 3. Consider other solutions
Find out another solution that may be more appropriate. Don't jump to conclusions assuming there's no better way. Avoid the black-and-white mindset by looking for other solutions, including compromise.
- Keep in mind that every problem can be solved in different ways, such as method A, B, and C. One way may be better than the other, but make sure you consider each one before making your choice.
- For example, you are thinking about whether or not to buy a car to replace an existing car. You've decided on a specific brand and model, but the funds aren't ready yet. Instead of fixating on the desire to buy your dream car, consider other solutions, such as looking for a new car of another brand that is cheaper or a used car. If your existing car is still in good condition, consider saving money to buy your dream car, instead of changing the car for debt.
Step 4. Prepare in case of errors or problems
Make a contingency plan in anticipation so you don't get confused. Readiness to deal with issues or problems can reduce stress. Even if it doesn't necessarily happen, it's better to anticipate problems than to ignore them.
- Creating a contingency plan is an important aspect when making decisions. You will feel calm in case the unexpected happens.
- Determine steps to address the "worst-case scenario". For example, you want to book a ticket for a business trip by airplane. When planning your trip, determine what to do in case you miss your flight, your flight is delayed, or the airport closes. That way, you don't get confused if there are problems.
Part 3 of 3: Asking Others for Suggestion and Support
Step 1. Delegate tasks and involve others in making decisions
Usually, decision making involves several people. Don't assume that you have to make decisions alone, especially when it comes to work, family, or community. To lighten the load, involve other people before making a decision so that they feel valued.
- Sometimes, your decisions affect other people. Therefore, you should seek input from others before making a decision.
- Make sure others feel included in the decision-making process. Ask others for support when you are gathering information or making plans to anticipate problems. Helping others helps improve decision-making abilities.
- Whether you're making decisions as a company manager, parent, or community leader, involve others to make sure you're making the best decisions. Take time to ask other people's opinion before deciding on something very important.
Step 2. Discuss your thoughts with a friend, family member, or expert who can provide useful input
Ask questions or ask them to explain things you don't understand. Do not underestimate the knowledge or opinions of others who have experienced similar problems.
- If you are having trouble making a decision, ask a close friend or family member to discuss it. Choose people who have given wise and helpful advice. Even if he doesn't say anything pleasant, consider the positive and negative effects of each suggestion he gives.
- Depending on the issue or issue at hand, you may need to consult an expert, especially if your decision is financial, health or legal. Look for experts who are able to provide advice and opinions objectively.
Step 3. Free yourself from the burden of thinking for a while if necessary
You need to calm your mind if you feel pressured or confused about having to make a decision. Make sure you take care of your physical and mental health, especially when dealing with stressful issues.
- Take time to rest. Take a day off or take a few hours to calm your mind while being alone in a quiet and comfortable place without thinking about work, studies, or family matters.
- Do fun activities, such as exercising, watching movies, reading novels, chatting with friends, or other relaxing activities to free yourself from the burden of thoughts.
- Once you've calmed down and can think clearly, move on to the decision-making process. You are better prepared to make decisions when faced with challenging problems if you maintain your physical and mental health.
