The Last Decision

As my week of learning decision making skills comes to an end, I want to focus on my main weak points.

What should my time frame be and how do I actually make the decision?

The book entitled How to Make decisions that Stay Made (1989) simplistically lists out the twelve steps required to make a lasting decision. I decided to focus on numbers seven through ten of the Decision section.

I often feel pressured to make rash decisions in a fast-paced world. However, it states that although it is good to make decisions in a timely manner, nothing is ever certain. In fact, a time frame should not be the main concern because it is possible that even more complications may arise before you even make it to the deadline (Saphier, Bigda-Peyton & Pierson, 1989, pg. 24). If something changes the scope of the decision, the entire time frame may need to be changed.

Over the weekend, I was able to implement this information into my life. I have been progressively getting sicker over the past week. I’m terrified of doctors. Rather than worry about getting sicker and having to inevitably visit the doctor, I decided to not stress and think about the timeline. I told myself that by the end of the week if I was not better, I would go to the doctors. Yet, I kept in mind the possibility of a complication, as the book brought out. If I got progressively worse, I would have to go in sooner. This decision allowed for flexibility and did not put too much stress on myself. I was able to decide when I felt it was time to go and think of the alternatives.

The book also brings out the importance of making the decision known. This step is likely scary to you, as it is to me. Still, it is necessary and makes clear what your intentions are. It is stated that, “A decision should be identified and not confused with ‘current thoughts’…” (Saphier et al., 1989, pg. 25).

I believe that declaring a decision clarifies where you stand to others, but also to yourself. By making clear the distinction between an idea and a decision, confidence will exude and likely end in a successful decision.

As many know of my fear of doctors, I decided to tell my family about my doctor’s appointment and the date. By announcing my appointment, I felt pressure to comply for my family, but also internally. I knew what had to be done and when it would be accomplished.

Over the past week, I have learned of so many steps involved in decision making. My decisions have become steadfast, not able to be influenced due to unforeseen occurrences. The stress of deciding has greatly subsided. Unfortunately, I know that bigger decisions in the future will still be hard for me. Only practice can prepare me for those decisions.

I hope this week’s chronicles of decision making research helps you and me.

Thanks for making the decision to read my post. Keep up the good decisions.

References

Saphier J., Bigda-Peyton T., & Pierson G. (1989). How to make decisions that stay made. United States: Automated Graphic Systems.