Life is fast paced and leaders make lots of decisions.
In this hectic environment we live in, sometimes we can move a little too fast. Following is a quick checklist to give yourself – based on a recent Harvard Business Review article – as you go through the decision-making process:
1. Are There Any Alternatives We Have Overlooked? My rule of thumb is to always consider at least three alternatives. Slow down. Don’t jump at someone’s first suggestion.
2. How Will We Measure Success? Make sure you have established outcome-based goals that are specific and measurable. This is sometimes easier said than done. One great resource to assist you is Doug Smith’s excellent book – Make Success Measurable.
3. Are We Willing to Live with the Worst Possible Outcome? This is to help measure your risk tolerance. Have you mitigated risks? If not, reconsider. But if you can survive failure and you have done your homework, then go for it.
4. What Could Make Us Regret This Decision? Look at the ethical boundaries of the decision and make sure you are in line. Also, will this damage any important relationships?
5. Is the Decision Reversible? Making an irreversible decision should take extra care. Sometimes this needs to be done, but you should be extra careful. Also, be sure to set up warning signs prior to the point that the decision is fully irreversible.
Obviously these questions do not guarantee a good decision, but they can stop you from making a bad decision. You can apply these questions to your personal life and your work life. In time, you will make a habit of making more effective decisions.
*Ideas for this blog taken from: Morris, S. “5 Questions to Help Your Team Make Better Decisions,” Harvard Business Review online, February 7, 2025.
