Often decisions are made based on preference and backed with emotion. We see this every day. For example, when negotiating a solution with your client preferential decisions are made because it is what the client wants (desire), not what the client needs (fact). Now in negotiation scenarios appealing to emotional and desire is key but as a leader, when making key decisions, these should be made logically and based on fact. Take Army Generals as an example. If they make decisions based on how they feel the risk increases. If they centre themselves and make a logical decision the risk decreases.
“Indecisiveness kills”
Decision types
There are generally two types of decisions: 1. Quick and decisive 2. Change driving. Quick and decisive decisions are ones that are made every day. These decisions are usually informed but lacking detailed information. Quick and decisive decisions are made using a combination of experience, judgement and preconceptions. As a leader we need to make these decision to provide people with guidance, clarity and direction. For example, deciding to look both ways when crossing a busy street to save your life.
The second type of decision is change driving. These are very well-thought out decisions. These are ones that are made highly informed where information can be gathered over a few months. These decisions are ones which typically create major change and can even shift project directions. Change driving decisions occur less than quick and decisive decisions. It is important to know which type of decision you are making to know how much time and effort needs to go into making said decision.
Limit your options
Reduce your decision options down to at least two for complex problems. This way you can draw a hard line between pros and cons and then make a decision.
If this post brought you value in anyway support me by subscribing and sharing this post!
Remain objective
Emotion clouds our judgement. It can be difficult when there is emotion vested within the project and decision but aim to focus on objectivity rather than subjectivity. This is key in any decision making process. Facts over opinion and preference. Practice this and over time is will become second nature.
“Think coffee”
Understand the steps
Decisions should be made based on a logical thought process. Think about how you make a cup of coffee. Normally we would say put the coffee in and add hot water and maybe some milk. But what if you had to break down the steps to a child who had never made a coffee before? A logical breakdown would be as below:
- Why do I need a coffee? Because I am feeling tired and need a pick me up.
- Where do I get a coffee? Walk to and find the jar which says coffee from the kitchen.
- What do I need to make a coffee? I need coffee granules and boiling water (for an Americano anyway)
- How do I make the coffee?
- Switch on the kettle base, then take the kettle and fill it up with water then set it to boil on the base
- Open the coffee container and put 1 tsp on granules into the cup
- Once boiled, pour water into cup to just below the top. Replace kettle and, using a tea spoon, stir the coffee counter clockwise for 30 seconds
Take action
Now this is a simple example but it shows the questions we should be asking. How? Why? What? Where? When? These questions allow us to form a logical way forward whilst identifying the risks which can be mitigated. This will be in the form of an action plan.
How to reference this article
- Toor, J. (2019). How to be more decisive? Available: https://pmgrowth.co/how-to-be-more-decisive?