Decision-making does not always come easy.
It is by far one of the most complex things we have to do in life. The interesting part is that our lives are really a series of making decisions. From the time we wake up, the streak starts. For me, the first decision is to either snooze my alarm or to wake up. Every morning, it’s a tough decision to make.
In addition to the minor decisions, we also have to make some big and, in some cases, life-changing decisions.
This is where it gets interesting or rather, scary because sometimes we only have one chance to make a decision that will shape our future.
To make these decisions we put a lot of things into consideration.
Thankfully, we all have the potential to be good decision-makers. These tips are a good starting point for you to unleash the good decision-maker in you!
Some of us take risks often and we end up comfortable with the bad decisions we make.
It is important for you to take some time to reflect on the risks you continuously take and look at the bigger picture. You will likely see the long-term effects of those risks.
For example, some people party every weekend from Friday evening till Sunday. This might seem like a fun idea at the moment, but if they look at the bigger picture, they might realize that they are taking a risk with their lives. In the future, they might suffer the negative implications of alcohol harm, among other things.
Taking note of the the future circumstances you are putting yourself in by taking risks now can help you make better decisions now.
Whether they are short-term or long-term goals, make sure they are clear.
I find writing them down is a great way to ensure that I have precise and achievable goals. Knowing exactly what you want or where you need to be at a certain point is crucial in decision-making.
Clear goals make it easier for all your choices to be aligned with them.
As people, we have different ways of viewing situations and analyzing the possible outcomes.
Getting a second or third opinion from trusted friends can help you view the situation from a different perspective. Moreover, seeking the opinion of others also gives them a chance to share with you how they might have made choices in similar dilemmas.
A busy and fast-paced environment is definitely not the ideal place to make decisions, because of the many distractions that will be surrounding you.
Rather, take some time for yourself and find a quiet place where you can adequately focus on your thoughts.
Likewise, avoid making decisions when you’re stressed, tired, hungry, or angry. These negative states hinder your decision-making ability making you vulnerable to making a choice you might regret.
Sometimes we approach decision-making from a biased point of view.
We lean towards making a particular choice without necessarily weighing all the available options.
Before coming to a final decision, be open-minded and ensure that you have weighed all the available options. Examining all options also gives you confidence with your choice.
Almost all decisions have long- and short-term consequences.
Remember to weigh all these consequences in your decision-making process. Often, we are short-sighted and make decisions based on immediate gratification while ignoring the long-term consequences of the choice.
Also, some choices might seem like the wrong choice for the short term but in the long term, the choice might be beneficial.
For instance, taking a course for a new skill might seem like a bad idea. That means your schedule will be packed, but after completing the course it increases your chance to be promoted at work or getting into an industry you’ve always wanted to work in.
When we were younger, we had other people who could make the important decisions for us.
If things didn’t go well, they would take the blame. But as we get older, it becomes our responsibility to make important decisions. The more you implement these tips in your decision-making, the easier it becomes for you to make the best choices.
In addition to the tips above, trust yourself. You have the ability to make the best decisions for yourself. Sometimes you feel sad after making the right decision. That's okay. If you make mistakes, learn from them and move on!
Editor's note: This article was originally published Jun 4, 2022 and has been updated to improve reader experience.
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July 6, 2025
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Hello dear friend, in the end of your article on the topic of decision making it say that you might feel sad when you make the right decision. My question is how sadness takes precedence? Thank you for a clarification on this matter
Hi Rosie, I'm not sure what you mean? How do you deal with feeling sad long after you've made the decision?
This is all very EXCELLENT POINTS to consider in life!
Very GOOD information!
Thank you for the positive comments Hazel!
Thanks for the tips. I agree,not to think too much if and when something does not work out for you, do not feel sad instead be co nfident that the results will be in favour of your life circuumstances. The universe will guide your path for you. Trust in yourself.Believe in you!
Well said Jennifer! If you believe in yourself, and are confident that you can get through anything, you will.
I am really understand how far I am silly...that's all bad feelings uncontrollably heart...always hungry.
I really enjoyed this article it will help me with making some of my own decisions from now on.
Great to hear Harriet, wishing you luck on those decisions, I hope it helps!