But what happens when the stakes are a little higher? Suddenly our decision making capability which is normally so efficient and almost automatic, gets stalled and we find ourselves agonizing over which way to go; wavering between alternatives like a child trying to choose which candy to spend a dime on.
What is it that turns us from slick decisive choosers into dithering fools? The answer is simple. Fear.
Because these weightier decisions have potentially more damaging consequences, our natural protection mechanisms kick in and set off alarm bells, which say "Slow down, hold on, don't rush into this". All of which is perfectly normal and healthy, but the problems start when our fear turns into procrastination and a complete inability to decide even when all the facts are in front of us.
It is this fear and procrastination which, nine times out of ten are responsible for preventing us making the decisions that could change our lives for the better. We get stuck in a rut of our own making and are too scared to climb out.
So what can we do to break the deadlock and free up our natural instincts for making good and healthy decisions? Well, how about tossing a coin?
Now I know that sounds like the most reckless advice. Am I suggesting that we throw our future open to fate and allow every decision to be decided on the mere throw of a coin?
No of course not, but what I am suggesting is that the throw of the coin is one sure way to catalyze your natural decision making instinct out of its fearful slumber.
Let me explain. Imagine you are in a store and you plan to buy a new TV. You are now down to deciding between two alternatives; they both have similar specifications and prices, but one has an extra feature you like and the other has a more pleasing design. You don't need two TV's right? So you have to decide. But you just can't.
Imagine, now that you take a coin out of your pocket and throw it into the air. I can absolutely guarantee you that as soon as that coin leaves your hand, long before it falls back down into your palm again, you will know which TV you want to buy. As soon as you told your brain that you were going to take the decision out of its hands and let fate decide, it suddenly found its voice again and tried to assert its authority by shouting, "I hope it lands heads up".
You see, your brain already knows perfectly well which decision to make but your protection mechanism has been drowning it out. The simple expedient of introducing blind fate into the equation is enough to break that pattern.
So next time you're facing a decision that you just can't seem to make, try tossing a coin and give your brain a fright.
Decision Making In Management
This is why before making a decision, a person must put a lot of thought into it. This means carefully examining and assessing the situation, as well as contemplating the pros & cons, and possible consequences of the decisions about to be made.
Here are some tips on excellent decision-making:
1. Assess first if the decision you are about to make would be the right one for you. This means assessing your needs, and really finding out the reason why you are making this decision in the first place.
For example, if the decision you are about to make concerns the college of their choice, you must ask yourself these questions: Are you being influenced by family and friends? Is peer pressure becoming an issue? What about the issue of money? Are you being practical about the decision you are about to make, or are you possibly setting yourself up for failure, by making an evidently impractical decision?
2. Study your options. When making a decision that implies a choice, you should look into your options - whether this involves a decision in regards to purchasing a new house, vacation destination, or a university of choice. Individuals should take the time to study, research, and evaluate all of their options. This way, they can limit their alternatives to that one choice that would be just the right one for them.
3. People who need serious help when it comes to decision-making can make use of decision-making seminars, sessions, and training. Many organizations offer individuals the chance to improve their decision-making skills by attending their programs. Those who feel the need for such help should do some research in the internet for the local listings of these courses that are held within their vicinity.
4. Plan big decisions ahead of time. Do not leave everything to the last minute, because this is a sure recipe for disaster. Planning ahead of time will give you enough time to prepare for the contingencies. It never hurts to have a plan B, in case your original plan does not work out.
Also, planning buys you time. For example those individuals who are planning to get a new car, should first do some research. They must give themselves some time to go to different dealerships to compare prices, and check out what types of offers are available out there. This way, they would be able to land the best deal possible. Remember, the best decisions are not rushed. They are carefully thought out and made through careful planning.
5. Make a list of pros and cons. This sounds a bit old fashion, but it is a time-tested method that will aid you in making the best decisions. Coming up with a list will give you a visual representation of your thoughts. This will also help you set priorities in order by writing a list of your preferences, goals, and needs. On the other hand, this would also allow you the opportunity to evaluate the downside to the potential choices you are about to make.
Making a decision can sometimes be very difficult, but it has to be done! The best way to go about this is to make sure that you give yourself plenty of time to think about it first. If possible, seek out the counsel of friends and family.
But in the end, all people have to make their own decision. This is why individuals have to be wise, and give themselves the opportunity to make the best possible decisions!
Both Andrew Grant & Abbas Abedi are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Andrew Grant has sinced written about articles on various topics from Web Development, self improvement and motivation and Decision Making. Thanks for reading this. My name is , visit my website and subscribe to my newsletter for more information and inspiration on Goal Setting, Positive Think. Andrew Grant's top article generates over 33100 views. to your Favourites.
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