The Power of Pre-Making Decisions: Why Decide in the Moment if You Can Decide in Advance?
This simple tactic has been a game-changer for me.
Several years ago, I missed my brother’s birthday party. My family has never been great with planning, and the bday invite went out a day or two beforehand. By that point in time, I already had plans with a friend, so I told my family I wouldn’t make it to the party.
And even though I love my brother to death, that decision wasn’t a tough one for me to make. In fact, I had essentially decided what I would do in that situation years earlier.
I had “pre-decided” that whenever I had plans with someone, I wouldn’t cancel them even if a better opportunity came along.
I had made that decision because I was tired of letting people down. I was frustrated at myself for all of the times I had skipped out on a commitment because someone later invited me to something that sounded more fun.
I had pre-decided: In [this specific situation], I’m going to [take this specific action].
This life choice has caused me to miss big sporting events, parties with friends, and other activities. But it has also helped me fulfill my commitments, become a…
