As a business owner, we’re no strangers to the constant barrage of decisions that come our way. Some are as trivial as choosing between two coffee blends for the office, while others can have a profound impact on the future of your company. It’s easy to find yourself drowning in a sea of choices, and at times, it might seem like your inner Devil wearing Prada is screaming, “I hate ALL these choices!”

Decisions don’t need to be daunting. In fact, they get to be enjoyable.

Drawing from my experiences working at the Ministry of Defence and my diverse global work history, I’ve had my fair share of decision-making challenges. Over time, I’ve developed a knack for making decisions that not only keep the wheels of business turning but also contribute to growth and success of my business and my clients’.

So, I’d like to share with you three key steps for effective decision-making. Adapt these and you can’t go far wrong.

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1. Avoid being stuck in the state of indecision

Indecision is relentless; it’s an awful place to be. It’s the nagging voice in your head that makes you second-guess yourself. It’s the ‘should I? / shouldn’t I?’ that leaves you feeling confused and frozen.

Indecision only leads to procrastination, missed opportunities and frustration.

With the first signs of indecision approaching, you want to move quick and do all you can to avoid being sucked in.

Acknowledge that it’s natural to have doubts and fears when making choices, but don’t let them paralyse you. Instead, remind yourself that progress is made by taking action, even when you’re uncertain about the outcome.

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1. Always take action

Taking action is the antidote to indecision.

When faced with a decision, don’t let it linger for too long. As a business owner, trust your gut, gather the necessary information, and take decisive steps forward. Action breeds momentum, and momentum is a powerful force in business.

Remember that no decision is set in stone. In the fast-paced world of business, you can always pivot, adjust, or refine your choices based on new information and changing circumstances. It is very rarely permanent.

By taking action, you not only move the needle but also create opportunities for learning and growth.

(Plus, your executive assistant can be a valuable ally in ensuring that action is taken promptly and efficiently.)

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1. Trust that there is no ‘wrong’ decision

It’s pretty liberating to realise that there is truly no such thing as a ‘wrong’ decision.

Every choice you make, whether it leads to success or failure, is a stepping stone on your business journey. It’s through these decisions and their consequences that you gain valuable experience and insights.

It’s tough when something doesn’t play out like you planned, but you would’ve never known that if you hadn’t gone for it and given it a go.

Instead of dwelling on the fear of making the wrong choice, trust that each decision contributes to your growth and knowledge. Remember that if things don’t go as planned, you have the resilience and adaptability to make it work (both very important traits in business!).

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5 elements of a great decision

If you’re looking to make even smarter decisions without the deliberation or hesitation, here are the 5 elements I’d consider when making your next decision.

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1. Get clear on your goals: Start with a clear understanding of what you want to achieve.
2. Gather all the important information: Gather relevant facts and data to make an informed choice.
3. What are the options: Consider different choices or alternatives.
4. Evaluate all consequences: Think about the potential outcomes and impact of your decision.
5. Action and review: Put your decision into action and periodically assess the results to make adjustments or go in a different direction if needed.

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Conclusion

You are the business owner, you have the power to make decisions with ease and confidence. Don’t let indecision hold you back. Take action and trust that every decision, big or small, contributes to your journey.

If you’re looking for right-hand support for guidance and help with effective decision making – an executive assistant might be exactly what you need.

Book a discovery call with us by clicking here.