making Decisions

In its simplest sense, decision making is the act of choosing between two or more courses of action. In the wider process of problem-solving, decision making involves choosing between possible solutions to a problem. Decisions can be made through either an intuitive or reasoned process, or through a combination of the two.

During your time at school, you will be expected to make many important decisions. Some won't mean much, but others will create ripples that will reverberate throughout your life ...

Never underestimate how wide the ripples can run. Stay attuned to the consequences by using your powers of observation and your instincts. Finally, remain flexible. If the ripple effect of your decision is just too negative, it may mean you made a bad decision. When that happens (because they often do), take responsibility and admit to yourself and others what has happened. Then you can look for corrective action that will keep you moving forward.

Identify the decision to be made. This is the first step in making the right decision. Recognise the problem, issue or opportunity and then address it.

Gather information so that you can make a decision based on facts and data. Ask yourself what you need to know in order to make the right decision, then actively seek out anyone who needs to be involved.

Identify alternatives once you have a clear understanding of the issue. Identify the various solutions at your disposal. This helps you determine which course of action is the best way to achieve your aims.

Weigh up evidence. In this step, you’ll need to “evaluate the viability, acceptability and desirability” to know the best choice for you. Seek out a trusted second opinion to get a new perspective.

Choose among alternatives. When it’s time to make your decision, be sure that you understand the risks involved with your chosen route.

Take action. Next, you’ll need to create a plan for implementing your decision. This involves identifying what resources are required and gaining support from all involved.

Review your decision An often-overlooked, but important, step in the decision-making process is evaluating your decision for effectiveness. Ask yourself what you did well and what can be improved next time.

Here are common challenges you may face, along the way:

Having too much or not enough information;
relying on one single source of information which can lead to bias;
misidentifying the problem;
overconfidence in the outcome.

How can decision making impact you?

The decisions that you make now, can define your character for life. Decisions lead to choices and choices define who we are as a person; it shows our character to the world. To enhance the probability of making better choices and surviving bad ones, personal character and inner spirit play essential roles.

Films that contain some big decisions ...

The Butterfly Effect (2004)

Stars: Ashton Kutcher, Amy Smart, Melora Walters (15)

The Truman Show (1998)

Stars: Jim Carrey, Ed Harris, Laura Linney (PG)

The Matrix (1999)

Stars: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss (15)

Moana (2016)

Stars: Auli'i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House (PG)

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