The biggest problem with decision making is the inability to decide. Indecision can at times, result in great losses in opportunity, morale and even one's self confidence.
Let's face it. No one really knows whether a decision is right or wrong. Many can speculate what the eventual outcome might be but can anyone guarantee it? Every decision involves a certain level of risk and consequence. Consider it carefully but do not be afraid to take that risk when you have to.
Allow me to share some of the frustrations that I have on decision makers and how I would deal with each of them.
The Over-Thinker
Do consider the possible outcomes and scenarios that might take place but try not to overthink it. Take internet shopping as an example; to suddenly have 100 different options may make it even more difficult to decide which one is best to buy! Most people who are indecisive are commonly guilty of overthinking. Do remember that sometimes the more we consider, the more confused we get. Best way to deal with an over-thinker is to simply limit the scope of their imagination. Remind them that we cannot possibly cover the infinite possibilities and options and focus on what we can cover.
The Perfectionist
Some of us insist on making that PERFECT decision! Is there even such a thing?!? We would therefore, spend a lot of time and energy searching for that perfect solution before finally reaching a decision. Ironically, despite all that effort, the perfectionist will often miss the crucial timing required for optimal results. Gathering information will often come at a cost, and if timing is sensitive, figure out which criteria is most important and make a decision once that criteria is met! Set the main objectives and remind them that there is no perfect solution for any problem.
The Crowd Pleaser
Let's decide to go with what the consensus decide. Ever been in that position? Effectively you have decided to make a decision without actually making a decision. These folks are clearly more afraid of the consequences of their decision and are already finding an excuse to avoid blame should it go pear-shaped. I've sat in a board meeting once and wondered how a certain person can simply change his mind three times during a short 5 min open vote because he didn't want to take any responsibility for his decision. If you are in a position to decide, or if the decision concerns you primarily, please decide! For better or worse, accept the consequences and decide what you think is best! Try this simple strategy - Blind votes, discourage pre-decision discussions or better yet, let the crowd pleaser go first!
The Procrastinator
The main difference between a procrastinator and a perfectionist is where one spends a lot of time thinking and the other spends a lot of time trying NOT TO think about the same problem. Perhaps bogged down by a million other things, some of us tend to push off a decision because we simply do not want to spend time thinking it through. Therefore excuses about insufficient information or needing more time to decide will always be a top most reason. However, after 2 or 3 pushbacks, frustrations will build and those waiting for your decision will start to question. The best way to deal with procrastinators is to set a deadline and accept no excuses for any delays. This includes yourself, if you are guilty of procrastinating as I am from time to time.
Well, that pretty much sums up the different decision makers that I come across daily. If you are guilty of being any of the above, remember that all of these frustrates the people around you. Be it your family, friends, co-workers, bosses or employees. I do agree that there are times, when taking an indecisive stance may be the best for a given situation but certainly not at the expense of delaying progress. Yes, hastiness is always best avoided but similarly, indecision or the inability to decide at the right time will have even larger consequences.
Do make a conscious effort with your decision making process and know that people are waiting for you to make things happen!
I leave you with this, "There are no wrong decisions in life, just valuable lessons to learn along the way..."
Keep the faith!
No comments:
Post a Comment