Make a big decision

Broadly speaking, there are two types of decisions. Type 1 is an irreversible decision that’s very difficult to change or take back. For example: rebranding your company, quitting your job, discontinuing a product line, or getting a tattoo. Type 1 decisions often set a permanent change in motion, so approach with care.

Type 2 is a reversible decision, such as when to schedule a meeting, which shoes to buy, where to stay on vacation, or what to have for dinner. The stakes are pretty low, and you’re not necessarily locked in. Most decisions fall into this category—even if it doesn’t seem like it.

This practice is for the deciders of those big Type 1 decisions. But you may still find it helpful if a small decision is tripping you up.

Sometimes when a decision is tough to make, it’s because it’s very big and complicated. Other times it’s because our emotions—particularly fear—are getting in the way. If you’re struggling to be calm and rational about a choice, it can help to detail the outcomes you most want to avoid.

In other words: Put your fears on a page so they’ll stop doing laps in your mind. Answer your own “what ifs” and create a plan to fix a worst-case outcome. This puts you back in control so fear doesn’t call the shots anymore. You’ll also be able to see pretty clearly which fears are protecting you from an outcome that’s worth avoiding.

(If you’ve already plowed through your fears and they aren’t blocking you, move on to the next step.)

Once you’re in a rational state of mind, you can start a rigorous decision-making process. If you’ve ever flipped a coin, you know that there’s more than one way to make a decision. Consider the type of decision you need to make, as well as the context surrounding it. Then use the chart below to help you pick the best decision-making method, including when to bring your team in to assist.

To best understand the possible consequences, gather a wide range of inputs. You might track down data, look at market trends, or examine relevant case studies. If you’re making a decision with team members, consider each person’s positions and concerns. The more knowledgeable and prepared you are, the more productive the discussion will be.

You’re in the right headspace—you’ve chosen a decision-making method and done your homework. Now it’s time to weigh your options. Whether you’re facing an either/or scenario or standing at a crossroads with many paths, it’s helpful to think through each possibility entirely.

Sometimes just seeing the potential outcomes laid out together can lead to a lightbulb moment. A decision tree can help you map out each outcome and consider all of the factors and implications in an organized way. You can do this exercise solo or with your team (depending on your decision-making method).

For all of the critical thinkers out there: If you really want to improve your decision-making skills, the way to an advanced degree is to learn how to see things from an opposing perspective. Poke holes in your logic, reasoning, and projected outcomes to see where you might have missed something.

You’ve done the due diligence. You’ve considered every angle, explored all of the possibilities, gathered the right inputs, and weighed the options. At some point, you need to end the analysis before it becomes paralysis.

Just as there’s a cost in making the wrong decision, there’s also a cost in not deciding (ex: lost focus, missed opportunity). Remember: Most decisions, even really big ones, aren’t disasters when you choose thoughtfully. Trust your experience and your team members, look to the data if you have it, and course-correct when necessary.