The Art Of Better Decision Making

Sept. 19, 2024

By Mark David

Eleanor Roosevelt once said that the decisions we make shape our lives. How true is this statement? Our lives are indeed a culmination of all the choices we’ve made and will continue to make. Here are a few strategies to help you become a better decision maker, ultimately enriching your life!

1. Clearly Define Your Problem
   Start by writing out your problem. This practice will help you get closer to uncovering the solution. If clarity doesn’t come right away, try this approach: each day, take some time to write down the problem. Relax and allow the answers to surface naturally—don’t judge them as they flow. Make it a daily habit, and I promise that over time, you’ll find the insights you need to make the right decision. Be patient; this technique will serve you well.
2. Make Decisions Quickly
   Whether right or wrong, cultivating the habit of making prompt decisions, rather than procrastinating, will set you on a path to success in both your life and business.
3. Understand Decision Making as an Art
   Recognize that decision making is an art form. If your choices lead to success 51% of the time, you’re on the right track.
4. A Simple Decision-Making Formula:
   • Identify the situation.
   • Visualize it by transferring your thoughts to paper.
   • Generate three potential options.
   • Analyze the pros and cons of each, considering their short- and long-term impacts on you.
   • Choose one option and act on it.
5. Enhance your decision-making skills: To make the best decision, treat external data thoughtfully:
   • Observe it clinically rather than absorbing it emotionally.
   • Accept what is and maintain objectivity.
   • Stay non-judgmental and clear-headed.
   • Keep your emotions separate from the facts.
   • Trust your decisions, knowing you don’t need more information.
   • Allow the truth to reveal itself.
6. Excellent decision makers earn respect and trust from others. They keep moving forward, take calculated risks, and find peace in the choices they make. Individuals seek the decision makers out, as mentors, coaches, guides and friends.

Excellent decision-makers continually remind themselves to eliminate falsehoods and misconceptions that are in front of them. They create space for the truth to emerge by suspending all doubt and disbelief. In other words, they let go of their need for control, allowing the truth to reveal itself. It’s remarkable when you “know” and understand the process, it will consistently benefit both you and others who embrace it. All you have to do is go inside yourself to discover the truth & make the better decision. 

Appreciate the Day,

Mark David

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