Learn to let go of these 7 things and start making better and faster decisions.
Every day, we need to make many decisions, from random things such as what to wear to work to important matters such as which candidate we should hire. Thus, learning to make decisions more quickly can save us more time and energy.
Here are seven things to let go of so you can make better decisions faster.
- Making decisions on the fly
Sometimes we need to make a split-second decision, for example, where to have lunch. But, we can also make decisions ahead of time. The trick is to schedule time to think.
For example, you can organize your work schedule for the upcoming week on Sunday night instead of Monday morning.
Try it, and you’ll discover that planning ahead of time minimizes mental fatigue, allowing you to save your energy for more important matters.
2. Overthinking
It is almost impossible to calculate future outcomes because people and life are very unpredictable. Therefore, making decisions for the future is usually a long shot that may or may not yield productive results.
Although it’s great to have confidence in the decisions you make, it’s also important to be aware that you have no control over their outcome. So, stop overthinking things.
3. Distractions
Think about it: You are writing down a list of supplies to purchase for your home or office. Suddenly, you get a phone call from your bestie. For a moment, you chat on the phone and stop what you’re doing. After the call ends, you can’t recall what you need to buy.
Therefore, when you’re working on something important, avoid distractions until you’re ready to make a decision. Silent your phone, work in a quiet area, and focus on one thing at a time.
4. Choosing something because you’re “supposed to”
Don’t waste your time and energy on things that you feel pressured to do.
For example, you may be tempted to relocate your startup to Silicon Valley. But is it necessary or just something you’ve been talked into by other entrepreneurs? If a relocation (or other decision) is not a necessity, then you can ignore it.
5. Comparisons
It’s hard not to have comparisons when you see other people succeed or businesses thrive while you may be struggling to make ends meet.
While it is easier said than done, get over it and just continue doing what you love. Or, if you need a more inspiring quote, follow the words of advice from American actress and comedian Tina Fey: “Don’t waste your energy trying to change opinions; do your thing; and don’t care if they like it.”
6. Ignoring your instinct
Studies have shown that when you listen to your gut, 68 percent of the time, such intuition will led to the best decisions.
However, listening to your gut is most effective when facing personal decisions, such as deciding where to move. But for more complex decisions, you should still carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages.
7. Fear
Arguably, the biggest reason why you procrastinate on making a decision is because you’re afraid, and there’s a good reason why.
It is because while you have the control to make that decision, you don’t have control over what happens next. For instance, you may quit your job to finally go for your dream of starting your own business. But what if a recession hits? That’s going to impact your business. The solution? Don’t consume yourself with what happens next.
