When faced with life changing choices, how does one know what’s right or wrong?
Only the future will tell but for most individuals, the future is in their hands. For some, the worst decision is to make no decision at all and spend life sitting on the fence, going nowhere. A decision in itself is neither right nor wrong, what matters is the follow up, the determination to make it work and be successful.
The decision process becomes easier as skills improve with practice. It’s an essential tool to boost confidence and ensure personal development.
Decision Making – Making the Right Choice
The first step in decision making is to brainstorm pros and cons on paper, setting a time limit in order to focus. Let it rest for a few days, adding anything as and when it comes to mind. This is also a good time to seek advice from family and friends and include it in the appropriate column.
A close look will soon reveal short and long term advantages on one hand and on the other, what could be lost, financially or emotionally. Rewards may be great but there is always a price to pay for change and this should be assessed in all honesty.
The final decision rests with your greatest ally, at work day and night. Some call it subconscious, others intuition or inner voice but whatever it is, it’s on your side. It’s important to listen and take heed.
The Decision Process and How to Be Successful
To be successful on one’s chosen path, a decision, like any other goal, needs a deadline. When will it come into effect? Next week or next year, the date needs to be realistic and firmly set on paper. A written note is a daily reminder and reinforces commitment.
The next task is set up a road map, step by step, complete with dates, to make sure all will be ready on the day. Choosing a new course, planning a journey, looking for a new house, the excitement will grow and strengthen the decision.
Sooner or later, doubts will creep in, it's normal and inevitable. The best way to stand firm is to let everybody know what will happen and when. No one likes to lose face.
Improve Skills and Follow Up for Personal Development
Making a decision is only the first step on the road to personal development. After that, the most important skills come in the follow up, making every situation work for the best, even if it doesn’t go according to plan.
It’s all part of the process, a chance to grow and develop a flexible attitude, resourcefulness, the ability to see opportunities beyond problems and discover new skills.
Life is a journey. The only way to move forward is to take risks and that means making decisions and seeing them through.
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
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