How to learn to make decisions: learning to set goals

25.11.2024 10:20

Hesitation in decision making is a fairly common situation for almost any person.

But because of this we lose time, opportunities, and end up in a losing position! And then we also deeply regret the mistakes we made.

So, let's take a closer look at how to learn to make decisions.

Setting clear goals

The first and most important thing to do before making a decision is to set a clear and specific goal.

Then you will see a fairly clear guideline. Consequently, you will spend less time in decision-making. And you will already more quickly calculate the options for solving the problem that has arisen. And perhaps you will be able to offer another, more advantageous course of action.

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Photo: Pixabay

Reduce decision-making time

The enemy in making any decision is time. Too little can cause harm due to panic. And too much of this priceless resource only relaxes, which leads to making wrong decisions. Therefore, it is worth limiting yourself in terms of time. Choose individually the timeframes that are convenient for you.

But it is worth noting that in solving some issues it is necessary to make decisions within a very short period of time.

There are even special techniques for this (the “two-minute rule” or “the art of seven breaths”), where you need to make a decision within the allotted time.

But don't apply these techniques to all questions! Some questions require more time to resolve in order to get the best result.

Calm and only calm

There can be no talk of any right decision if emotions take over reason. In such a situation, no one will be able to distinguish truth from lies. Therefore, before making a decision - calm down. Do not give free rein to emotions.

To curb negative feelings or too strong emotions, you should use special practices: breathing exercises, meditation, aromatherapy, and so on. Each method is quite effective. Therefore, you should choose your own option that will help in an emergency.

Collect as much information as possible

The right decision is a short and logical conclusion that can be made based on carefully selected information. Therefore, do not play the game of "fortune telling on coffee grounds". This will only waste your time and energy.

And your decision may ultimately be wrong. Therefore, collect as much information as possible on the problem you are interested in. And even on related issues that can only strengthen your decision and make your conclusion more “solid” in the eyes of the people around you.

Don't shift the decision to someone else

The biggest mistake you can make is to let someone else make a decision for you! Yes, you can consult (sometimes it’s even necessary!). You can discuss all the options.

After all, a third party can suggest an option that you didn't see. But you shouldn't act on "someone else's orders" if it concerns your life!

There is only one exception: your entire “argumentation” did not stand up to your interlocutor’s criticism, since it has too many “holes”.

Write down all decisions

It is worth remembering that there are many solutions to any question. Even if the question initially implied only two options for action. And in order not to forget all the options, it is best to write them down.

You can do this on a piece of paper or on your computer. This way you will free up “space” in your head to continue thinking about options without the fear of losing the ones you already have.

Another undeniable advantage of this technique: you can write down your arguments for each option, analyze each option and choose the most advantageous one.

Earlier I talked about how to cope with stress at work.

For reference

A goal is a future vision or desired outcome that a person or group of people envisions, plans, and commits to achieving.

Vitaly Kisterny Author: Vitaly Kisterny Editor-in-Chief


Content
  1. Setting clear goals
  2. Reduce decision-making time
  3. Calm and only calm
  4. Collect as much information as possible
  5. Don't shift the decision to someone else
  6. Write down all decisions