Have a decision you need to make? It’s usually helpful to have the best information available. But...
Some people spend too much time trying to gather as much information as possible. And they can miss opportunities before them now.
Yes, information is a key component in decision-making. But sometimes you just have to make a decision immediately without any information -- and then live with that decision.
If, of course, you constantly make rash decisions, your credibility could suffer. However, you must recognize and prepare for those times when being decisive is necessary – even if you don’t have all the facts you’d like.
For example, a student is registering for classes at college and discovers that a few of the courses she was hoping to take are full. She is given other choices but is unsure how they will fit into her overall plan. Should she enroll in those alternative classes? She has to make a decision and has no time to gather more information.
She decides to register for the classes. If they are part of her major’s curriculum, she can always rework her plan so that they fit in. She could consult with her academic advisor and ask how to proceed after taking this new path. And, of course, she could always drop the classes if they don’t fit well.
KEY!: If a decision you make produces less than ideal results, you can often find a way to fix or make the best of the outcomes. Don’t be afraid to make the decision. Nike has a slogan that has worked for them for several decades now. That slogan? 'Just Do It!'
Regimented, structured living doesn't fit some people. They want the excitement that comes with making spontaneous decisions. Who is to say that their way is incorrect? It may not work for others, but it works quite well for them. You may know people who are like this – or maybe this describes you!
Spontaneous decision-makers are often people engaged in many pursuits and activities. If you are always needing just a bit more information before making a decision, you will find yourself not doing much – you’ll suffer from that ailment known as paralysis by analysis.
Your goal is to find a balance of decision-making based on good information and spontaneous decisions. The process of decision-making becomes easier the more you do it using best practices and proven tools.
And when you are presented a situation that requires you to make a decision quickly, you’ll seize the opportunity. Because you’ll know that in decision making, there is a time for some spontaneity!
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This article is the third in a three-part series on Decision Making. The two previous posts can be found at:
Decision Making: Avoid This...
Decision Making: Can Trees Help?
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay