The overlooked step in the decision-making process

Making a decision can be challenging. It may bring doubt, confusion, and uncertainty.

We usually want a magic solution for what we are experiencing without acknowledging there is a process. Every “overnight” success I witness comes with months, sometimes years, of work, dedication, and commitment. Paraphrasing art, we only see people’s stage (their success), and we don’t know their backstage (what was required to be done).

Regarding decisions, it is similar. There are no good or bad decisions; decisions are just decisions. Please be aware that I am not talking about morals here.

Make the decision, and your job afterward is to make this decision right. Have your own back!

It is important to consider that every decision we make will have consequences. We often focus on the wins and forget about or underestimate the losses.

Here are four questions that can help you expose the consequences:

1. What do you gain if… (achieve the goal)
2. What do you lose if… (achieve the goal)
3. What do you lose if you don’t… (achieve the goal)
4. What do you gain if you don’t… (achieve the goal)

By answering these questions, you discover the risks and losses related to the option you may choose. This step is often overlooked and leads to frustration when we uncover the consequences well after we decide. It also highlights the direction you want to go and opens space to reflect on your values and what is non-negotiable.

In a session with an entrepreneur, she was evaluating an opportunity and wanted clarity. By going through the decision-making process, she was able to gain confidence and commit to an aligned decision. After answering the questions about the consequences, she realized she would lose quality time with her family, which had been her focus for the year. Now, the decision was a no-brainer. Her family was the priority at that moment, regardless of how much more money the new opportunity would bring.

I invite you to explore this framework. It requires courage to be honest and make facts-based decisions. Regardless, I can guarantee that it will save you from future stress, frustration, and unnecessary pain.

Try now, and tell me later! I would love to hear how it goes.

Happy decision-making!