Useful tools and approaches

We all find ourselves at times trying to make difficult decisions. 

This list is to help provide some practical tools and tips that can progress the thinking and make deciding a more logical considered approach.

Often it involves getting it 'out' of our heads and onto paper or verbalising out loud

Write down as many options to your decision as you can, even the ones you dont want to do, and then force yourself to think of another two. 

Then score them out of ten for how good you think they are as solutions. Then look at the top rated 3 see what theme is standing out

Make a list of the pros and cons of each option you are considering. This can help clarify the benefits and drawbacks of each choice.

SWOT: An evolution of a pro and con list where you look at the situation from the angles of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. (Go Google SWOT and you will find lots of tips). For me a SWOT is a real go to favourite

Visualize yourself in the future having made each decision. 

How do you feel? What do you notice in your body about how you feel?

What are the potential consequences? How do you feel about the consequences?

This can help you gain insight into which choice aligns best with your values and goals.

Consider how you will feel about each decision in 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years. 

This can help weigh short-term desires against long-term consequences.

Sometimes, setting a deadline can help prevent overthinking and indecision. Agree on a reasonable timeframe and possibly tell someone to give yourself focus and hold yourself to account.

Talk to friends, colleagues or someone who is more independent such as a coach and take note of both what they say and what your repeating themes are when you describe the decision

What is the worst possible outcome for each option and how would you cope with it. This can help alleviate fears and make the decision-making process less daunting.

Im a huge believer in this one. Make the decision and take some time to reflect and sleep on the decision before making a final choice. 

Often, a fresh perspective after a good night's rest can lead to greater clarity.

One tip would be to make the decision and then go and do something that takes it out of your mind. Get some distance from it somehow so you can revisit feeling fresher.