Imagine what the world would be like if everyone practiced a little more rational decision-making. Fortunately, research does show that there are things you can do to help make more accurate and reason-based - and less emotion-based and potentially impulsive - decisions. Here are two simple rules can be particularly helpful:
- First, be less certain about every part of your decision-making process. Think choice A will lead to outcome B? It’s probably less likely than you believe. Think outcome B is preferable to outcome C? You’re probably too confident about that as well. Revisit the logic of your decisions. What else would you think about if you were less sure that A causes B, or that B is preferable to C?
- Second, always ask yourself, “How often does that typically happen?” For example, if you were considering sponsoring a change project, you might ask: What percentage of projects in this organisation fail, and what percentage succeed? Accepting that you know less than you think you do is one of the best ways to start making better decisions.
The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme and adapted from 3 Ways to Improve Your Decision Making by Walter Frick. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please join us on our next complimentary webinar or contact us.