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Morning Column
How to Overcome the 10 Biggest Mistakes in Decision Making
By LeAnn Thieman
Sam, a corporate lawyer with a stressful job, recently admitted, "I really
wanted to be a lawyer growing up, but I didn't realize how much time I would
be spending away from my family and friends." Because he spent so many years
in school and so much time honing his legal skills at a top-notch firm, Sam
felt "stuck" with his job. Then he realized he could make a change. Sam
remembered why he went into law in the first place - to help families in
need - and took the necessary steps to switch his corporate law career to
one in family law. By using the steps below, Sam was able to make a positive
change in his life, by carefully thinking through his decision.
Making decisions about our careers, our families and our lives is not always
easy. Following these 10 tips will help you avoid the common mistakes people
make, while also making better personal and professional decisions:
1. Not taking enough time.
Sometimes we make decisions in the spur of the moment, under times of stress
when the adrenaline is pumping. These are not the best circumstances to make
any decision, big or small. You've likely been in situations like that.
You're in a meeting and someone calls for help on a project, and you raise
your hand and you are it. You are involved, and you said "yes" again before
really thinking it through. Other times, decisions are made too quickly by
misspoken words. Too often, in the heat of the moment, angry or hurtful
words are said in haste, without forethought, and lives are changed forever.
By simply taking more time to think about the pros and cons of your decision
and weigh out the consequences, you can help stop yourself from making a
mistake.
2. Lacking peace.
Bad decisions are made in stressful, chaotic situations. Good decisions are
made in a place of peace, when you can take the time, space and solitude to
make healthy choices. Even small, ordinary ones should be made this way. Try
taking deep breaths in a quiet environment to evaluate the facts before you
decide. When a decision is big, maybe even life changing, get out of Dodge,
so to speak. Find a quiet place for an overnight stay, unaffected by the
stress and turmoil. It is there, in a neutral place of peace, a good
decision can be made.
3. Wallowing in chaos.
Another mistake people make is wallowing in the chaos of everyday life, or
listening to too many other people. If it's a choice that affects you, it's
critical to listen to your own inner voice, which cannot be heard in the
chaos. You can call this voice intuition, conscience, a divine spirit,
higher consciousness - whatever fits your belief system. That small voice is
your built-in guide. It must be listened to, respected and followed. To find
that voice, get out of the chaos. Find quiet. Be still and listen. Then
follow that inner voice.
4. Not considering priorities.
Occasionally we make decisions that are not consistent with our priorities.
We give lip service to one thing, claiming it is a priority in our lives,
yet we make decisions that detract us from the very thing we say is the most
important to us. However, if we make a list or just think about the
priorities that are important, we can make better choices for ourselves and
loved ones.
5. Failing to heed what's best for you.
Too often we decide things without thought to our needs and wants. The same
qualities that call us to be responsible team members are the same qualities
that allow us to shortchange ourselves. Think of what is best for you. That
may not fall in line with what is best for your friend, or your husband, or
your boss but you must listen to what is right for you.
6. Neglecting your values.
Sometimes we make decisions that are not in alignment with our values. The
world would be a better place if we all followed the Rotary Four-Way Test in
our business and professional lives: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all
concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be
beneficial to all concerned? After considering these elements, then make
your choice.
7. Ignoring what's right.
Too often we make decisions that are not right today, but we think they will
be in the long run. Perhaps we twist the numbers just a bit, or inflate the
resume a little, or step on someone on our way up, believing it will be
worth it in the long run. That never works, not in the end. It takes a lot
of courage to make the deep-down- in- your-gut-you-know-it's-right decision
today. Listen to that inner voice and trust that the rest will be taken care
of.
8. Avoiding the truth.
Critical to good decision making is telling the truth. Many times we will
say things to please others, or avoid saying something that will hurt. It's
important to ensure every word that comes out of your mouth is true, whether
the statement is big or small. If the project takes two weeks, don't say one
week. If it costs $200, don't say $190. Honesty is indeed the best policy.
Will Rogers was right when he said, "Tell the truth. It's a lot easier to
remember."
9. Forgetting how to say "No."
To make good decisions, there are times we need to just say, "no." This is
hard for many of us to do, since we think we need to be all things to all
people. The truth is, we don't have to give a reason for why we can't help.
All we have to do is say, "I'm sorry I can't, I have another commitment."
That commitment can be taking care of ourselves, our families, our
priorities. When it's hard, remember that it is only when you step back that
others can step forward. Every time you say, "yes," it deprives another
person of an opportunity. When you decline, it gives them a chance to serve,
to learn, to grow.
10. Procrastinating.
Sometimes making a decision is difficult, so we postpone it … and postpone
it. But not to decide is to decide. No decision is a decision.
Once you've made a decision, own it. Doing so is key to living with it.
Avoid using the words "have to." It's said we don't "have to" do anything
but die and pay taxes. Instead say, "I choose to." Owning up to your
decisions and life choices is empowering.
Remember, where you are today is based on decisions you made in the past.
You will be tomorrow, based on decisions you make today. Take time and
wisdom to make them good ones.
Avoiding these mistakes and making better decisions every day makes us
better people, and as better people we are recognized and offered better
opportunities, which in the end brings better rewards.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
LeAnn Thieman CSP, speaker, coauthor of Chicken Soup for the Nurse's Soul,
Second Dose, expert in healthcare recruitment and retention. For more
information visit: www.NurseRecruitmentandRetention.com or call
1-877-844-3626.
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