It is difficult to make crucial decisions in life. Brendan Francis noted, “Some people are very decisive when avoiding making decisions.” You might be able to see the success stories of successful people and wonder how they make the right decisions. What are their “secrets” to successful decision-making? We did extensive research into the topic of decision-making in theoretical and practical aspects and discovered the following secrets: Activeness Balance and Checking. What exactly are “Activeness,” Balance, and Checking in relation to decision-making topics?
A. Activeness
To be able to take part in lengthy and challenging decision-making processes, you must be actively involved. You may feel that the issue you must decide on is too complex to understand and make a decision. Sometimes it can be difficult or time-consuming for you to gather enough reliable and valuable information. On the other hand, you might be overwhelmed with conflicting information or opinions about multiple alternatives. It is possible to be afraid of taking a chance on choosing an option. You become passive in the decision-making process. This is what happens when you “close your eyes” to follow the steps of others (e.g., when you buy a car from a dealer).
You have to take responsibility for the consequences of your final decision. This is why you need to be active. If someone has told you not to do something, it is unfair. It is essential to have a positive attitude. It is impossible to say, “This issue is too difficult to decide.” I don’t know what to do right now. Remember the proverb, “Where there’s a will, there’s away.” You will eventually find the solution if you are determined to solve the problem. You must be determined to overcome certain obstacles, especially in decision-making. It is essential to spend time searching for the right features, comparing them, creating a shortlist, and then selecting the best one. You will make the right decision if you plan, think, and execute the plan.
B. balance.
There are three components to balance.
The balance between the different expected features is the first aspect. Do not get too attached or fixated on one candidate. You may pick one candidate for the best quality, but it’s possible to forget about other essential attributes that may have long-term impact or value.
The second aspect of the equation is to find the right balance between how much time you devote to each step of the decision-making process. Many people don’t spend enough time defining the features and values for the alternative. They don’t know what they really need. They may choose an unsuitable candidate. Others may spend too long searching for other options and become overwhelmed by too many customer reviews as well as too many contradicting customer reviews. They lose their direction as time passes. Because the deadline is near, they may end up choosing an inept candidate. This could happen to couples with high demands for an excellent restaurant for their wedding reception. To balance the time spent on each step of the decision-making process and the time it takes to complete them, you need to create a plan. This will allow you to set an appropriate time for each step, as well as extra time. Remember the old adage, “Rome wasn’t built in one day.”
The third aspect of balance is between rational analysis and intuitions or gut feeling. Some people are reliant on logic based on data, information, and formulas. If this is you, then you need to turn off your “rational machine” and listen to your intuition before making a decision. In reverse, if your automatic decision-making is influenced by your feelings, it’s time to do some rational analysis.
C: Checking
It is worth looking at similar products from other manufacturers, sellers, service providers, and brands. You can also check other sources to determine if this is the right time or not.
It is essential to verify the information you have collected with advice and opinions from trusted people, such as friends, family, or colleagues.
You should always check to see if the alternative candidate has any hidden flaws, faults, or additional costs before you make your final decision. Do not rush to make your final decision. Waste is waste. It is essential to “pause” for a second to check everything thoroughly as the master carpenter “Measure Twice and Cut Once” does.
The three keys to making the right decision are Activeness, Balance, & Checking. Activeness is the ability to actively seek out and evaluate alternatives and features that will suit your needs. Balance is the balance between various aspects. You should also check your information, timing, hidden costs, and other details.