Make a Decision

How comfortable are you making decisions when you don’t have all the information? As challenging as this is, most of the time, we won’t have the whole picture and still need to decide what to do next. It helps to recognize that decisions are not based on certainty but on probability. As leaders, our role is to take the information available at the time and make the best-calculated guess we can. We look at the benefits and the costs associated with the decision. We look at possible risks and see how we can mitigate them. Then we decide and move ahead. The worse thing we can do is not make a decision and thus take no action. As a result, we not only become stagnant and don’t develop our decision-making muscles, but our team gets frustrated and stressed from lack of direction. The project loses traction.

Redefine Failure:

Most often, the reason for not deciding is fear of failure. What if there is no failure? What if there are only two possibilities: the intended outcome (win!) or we learn and realize we need to pivot or adjust the strategy. This is an opportunity to re-evaluate, make changes and try again. That learning may be beneficial in many ways and point us in an even better direction. This is what builds experience.

Decision-making Process:

Decisions don’t happen as automatically as we think they do. There is a process to making decisions. Sometimes this process occurs quickly in our mind, and other times it needs to be on paper, so we see things clearly. Crucial decisions often require the latter. Below is one process to consider:

1. Take into account the outcome or result intended. This is key. Most focus on the problem and get stuck in a narrow focus. We open up our focus to see more possibilities by thinking of the result. We are also more likely to consider the stakeholders involved and affected.

2. Think of the situation as a challenge and not a problem. Reframing reduces stress, keeps us motivated and helps us think more clearly.

3. Stick to the facts, not the story. The story gets emotions involved, and this can cloud our thinking. Write down the facts without opinions or judgement.

4. Understand why you want this outcome. This step helps align the decision with our vision and purpose and helps keep us on track. This also keeps everyone motivated.

5. Define success. How will you know you were successful? Understanding how success is measured is key to staying focussed and on course.

6. What information/resources do you have or can you get to help make this decision?

7. What are your options, and what are the benefits and costs of each option? How significant are these to the outcome? By doing this part of the exercise, you gain a better perspective and can increase confidence in the decision. How can you reduce or eliminate the risk?

Decide

Once you have this clarity, then decide on the best option and create a plan to carry it out. Course correct as you go and keep your focus on the outcome.

The more you do this process, the more innate it becomes. For minor decisions, the process might all happen in your head. For significant decisions, use paper to capture these steps.

A structure to your decision-making process will help you lead  and live with intention and purpose.

Wondering how coaching can help you? Email info@salimashamji.com to schedule a discovery call.