How to Make a Tough Decision

 

“The choice is yours. You hold the tiller. You can steer the course you choose in the direction or where you want to be-today, tomorrow, or in a distant time to come.”

W. Clement Stone

Daily, we are faced with tough decisions. Do I take the promotion? Should I stay put in my job for the salary and benefits? Do I need to leave an organization or continue to pay my dues for the connections? Maybe you’re faced with a tough decision at this season in your life. Here are some things to consider:

1. What would you do if you only had one year to live?

When you consider how you will spend time and resources, consider if you would spend the last year of your life on a particular project, with a particular friend at a particular job.

2. What would you tell a friend to do?

When it comes to our friends and loved ones, we offer our best advice. So as you consider what is best for you, step back and think what you would tell a friend. Would you advise a friend to stay put in a relationship or pursue a relationship? Would you advise a friend to invest in a startup business? Once you’ve thoroughly considered what you would tell a friend, apply that same reasoning to your situation.

3. Visualize each outcome.

Think about the best result for each choice.

Which one fills you with joy? Now think about what could go wrong with each choice. Which one carries the most risk?

4. Determine how each choice aligns with your goals.

Whether you have written them down or they live in your head, you have goals. How does each of your choices align with your goals? Does one choice get you closer to your goals or farther from them?

5. Consider whether each choice will create or disrupt harmony.

How will each choice impact your daily life? Will there be more to do? Will you need to get up earlier? Just because a choice will be disruptive does not make it a bad choice, but consider this factor when making a decision.

As you filter your choice, through the five points made above, take time. It’s rare that you will need to make a major decision in a short period. If you’re making a decision that will have a long term impact, spend the time to consider all your options.

What factors do you consider when making a tough decision?