Decision-making is the process of making choices by identifying a decision, gathering information, and assessing alternative resolutions.
Using a step-by-step decision-making process can help you make more deliberate, thoughtful decisions by organizing relevant information and defining alternatives. This approach increases the chances that you will choose the most satisfying alternative possible.
1: Identify that you need to make a decision
You realize that you need to make a decision. Try to clearly define the nature of the decision you must make. This first step is very important.
2: Assure yourself: You can make the right decision
Stay positive. Assure yourself you are going to make the right decision.
3: Identify the problem
Try to find out the actual 'Problem', the exact need behind the decision making, what was the thought process that wants you to take the decision at a particular moment. Gather all the relevant information.
4: What are your choices?
List out all the possible solutions available.
As you collect information, you will probably identify several possible paths of action or alternatives. You can also use your imagination and additional information to construct new alternatives. In this step, you will list all possible and desirable alternatives.
5: What are the consequences?
Draw on your information and emotions to imagine what it would be like if you carried out each of the alternatives to the end. Evaluate whether the need identified in Step 1 would be met or resolved through the use of each alternative. As you go through this difficult internal process, you’ll begin to favor certain alternatives: those that seem to have a higher potential for reaching your goal. Finally, place the alternatives in priority order, based upon your own value system.
6:What is important?
Once you have weighed all the evidence, you are ready to select the alternative that seems to be the best one for you and is important with reference to time, available resources. You may even choose a combination of solutions.
7: Make the decision
In this final step, consider the results of your decision and evaluate whether or not it has resolved the need you identified in previous steps. If the decision has not met the identified need, you may want to repeat certain steps of the process to make a new decision. You may come to know some new and better solutions.
Happy Decision Making !!