Decision making is the process of examining your possibilities options, comparing them, and choosing a course of action. Making a decision implies that there are alternative choices to be considered, and in such a case we want not only to identify as many of these alternatives as possible but to choose the one that (1) has the highest probability of success or effectiveness and (2) best fits with our goals, desires, lifestyle, values, and so on.

We use our decision making skills to solve problems by selecting one course of action from several possible alternatives. Decision making skills are also a key component of time management skills. Decision making can be hard. Almost any decision involves some conflicts or dissatisfaction. The difficult part is to pick one solution where the positive outcome can outweigh possible losses. Avoiding decisions often seems easier. Yet, making your own decisions and accepting the consequences is the only way to stay in control of your time, your success, and your life.

Here are some decision making tips to get you started. (a) Identify the purpose of your decision (b)Gather information (c) Identify the principles to judge the alternatives (d) Brainstorm and list different possible choices (e) Evaluate each choice in terms of its consequences (f) Determine the best alternative (g) Put the decision into action (h) Evaluate the outcome of your decision and action steps.

In everyday life we often have to make decisions fast, without enough time to systematically go through and thinking steps. In such situations the most effective decision making strategy is to keep an eye on your goals and then let your intuition suggest you the right choice.