Decisions
- Do you find it difficult to make decisions?

At work, sometimes I find it easier to spend time reading all my emails and arranging them in lists, than actually DO anything about them.

At home, if my better half suggests I choose what we have for dinner (and cook it, but that's another story), I freeze up and am incapable - I'll watch TV, do some DIY, and waste time to avoid making the decision.

Sometimes you have to make a big decision, but you find it convenient to do other things.

Maybe you have to read a report and take action, so you sit down, paper in front of you and stare
    - then get up and make a cup of coffee, because then you'll be able to concentrate

    - except that you are collared in the coffee room about the latest company rumour, which is far more interesting

    - then you get back to your document

    - except that the phone rings, and…..

Good old procrastination!

I think all companies should have a Procrastination Manager, but I don't think they'll ever get round to it…………

Let's set down a method, to help clear the clutter.


"Clear the desk"

Set aside a specific time when you are going to make the decision, and park everything else - phone on voicemail, emails off, colleagues told you are busy.


The Decision

There are different kinds of decision - emergency decisions, routine decisions, controversial decisions
    - which type is it?

    - are you the one to make it?

    - what are you deciding about?



The facts

Do you have all the information you need?

If not, seek it out.


Consultation

People are affected by the decision

    - they must be consulted. Why?

    - to see if there are any facts you have missed or got wrong

    - if they are involved, they are more likely to accept the decision - an important psychological reason


Taking the decision

When you come to the deadline for the decision - external or self imposed - now is NOT the time to dither.

If you have clarified the problem, consulted everybody, gathered the options, then in most cases the right decision is clear.

All you have to do is take the decision.

Then check it, to ensure you haven't dropped a clanger.


Communicating the Decision

This may be verbal or written, depending on its nature, but it is a good idea to ensure it is written for the record.

Give people the opportunity to ask questions.

Be prepared to explain the decision - you may have to persuade the doubters


LAST BUT NOT LEAST - ACT ON THE DECISION!

There's no point deciding to do something, then not implementing your decision - but that's another article!

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This page was updated by Paul Hogwood on 11th July 2006

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