Life is filled with decisions. Each decision affects not only yourself, but your friends, family and community. Regardless of
the magnitude of the decision, these steps will help you work through what to do when you need to decide between alternatives.
Do not make a hasty decision. Hasty decisions are often a reaction to a problem, rather than an action. You want to stop and consider your alternatives before responding to a situation that requires a important decision.
Reactions are based on emotion and rarely bring about a positive outcome. Action on the other hand requires thinking through the situation and acting on the facts.
Make sure you understand the problem. Use active listening to make sure you understand the issue at hand.
Active listening is when you listen to what someone is saying and then repeat it back to them in your own words what you are hearing. It is not agreeing with their point of view, but making sure you understand them.
List out your alternatives. Write or type out all the alternatives that come to mind.
Consider each alternative and the possible consequences. Consider how each decision will impact not only yourself, but your family, friends, coworkers and community. Try to consider both the short and long term consequences. Narrow down the alternatives to only the ones you can live with.
Seek out advice from a person you respect, who makes sensible decisions. Ask for their input and if they see any other possible alternatives. This person should advise you only, you will need to make the final decision.
Act on your decision, being confident that you can life with the consequences. Do not continually mull over if you made the right decision. Once the decision has been made and carried out, move on with your life.
