How to Make Wise Decisions.
If you had one wish, what would you wish for? We’ve all thought about that before, right? If you could have one thing in the world, what would it be? There is an old story about an ancient King of Israel named Solomon, who was asked by God what he wanted. He could have chosen all the riches of the world, but you know what he wanted?
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The one thing King Solomon wanted above all else was this . . .
Wisdom.
Have you ever made an unwise choice?
We don’t hear a lot of talk about wisdom today. In fact, how many people do you know that you would truly consider wise? Thankfully, wisdom is not unattainable for any of us.
In fact, as it relates to decision making, perhaps wisdom should be our greatest goal.
In 2014, leadership expert, Andy Stanley released a book called “Ask It.” In it, he unpacks this idea that a single question, when asked of ourselves, could completely revolutionize how we make decisions. This question, while simple, is also very profound.
Do you want to know what the question is? Here it is . . .
What is The Wise Thing to do?
Did you catch that? What is the wise thing to do? When you are presented with a decision, regardless of how big or how small, what is the wise thing to do?
Not what is the easiest thing to do — not what is the fastest or cheapest thing to do — not what do I most want to do — not what does everyone else thing I should do — but, what is the wise thing to do. And as he presents a solid case for this simple question, Stanley encourages the reader to filter this question through 3 important perspectives.
(1) In light of my past experiences . . .
As we determine what the wise thing to do is, its crucial that we look back at our past experiences — our past mistakes — our past successes. Our past can give us incredible insight as we seek to make wise decisions.
(2) In light of my present circumstances . . .
Just because a decision might be fundamentally wise, it doesn’t always mean that its the wise thing to do right now. Your present circumstances, may very well dictate what you can say yes to or no to.
(3) In light of my future hopes and dreams . . .
Does this decision have the potential to move me closer to the future that I want for my self — or will it take me further away from that future? As I’m sure we would all agree, the decisions that we make right now, drastically affect our future.
So , in light of those three things — the past — the present — and the future — what is the wise thing to do? Don’t let the simplicity of this question, keep you from realizing how incredibly valuable this could be for you in your decision making.
Let me encourage you to try it today. You will no doubt have a decision to make today (big or small) . . . Ask yourself, what is the wise thing to do? In light of my past experiences, my present circumstances and my future hopes and dreams, what is the wise thing to do? You will be amazed how much decision making clarity you will receive by asking yourself this simple question. Try it!
- Arthur ( The Productive Student Academy)
