Make imperfect decisions

Choice terrifies us, so the Existentialists tell us. It's in the list, with falling and freedom, as an existential fear. 

Decisions need information and a process to a goal. When all is uncertain, we can't see the goal and our old processes fail. Decisions feel impossible because choosing one path over another is so hard. 

Well, perfect decisions are impossible, but they always were. What does it take to make new, imperfect decisions, when uncertainty and complexity have exploded? This question became sharper during the Covid pandemic, and doesn't seem to have gone away.

Breathe - it really helps

When we confront hard choices, we lock up. Three deep breaths helps to reset your mind, relax the body and calm your mood. Thinking is easier when you're breathing easily! 

Share the quandary

Pull your trusted peers into your bubble of imperfection. They may have new information or a better process. 

Work with Time - take a longer view

Stress closes us in. We lose the long view. We're trapped in this week or this month, when our actions have longer term consequences. Connect with colleagues who understand this and can help you reconnect to your vision. 

Buckle up - take the hits

There will be consequences of any imperfect decision or non-decision. They could be catastrophic, and you can't control them all. Have a contingency plan for the most catastrophic outcome. It will leave you more free to act with a clear mind. 

Take full responsibility - it's inspirational

Few will understand how difficult your decisions have been. Equivocating won't help, while accepting responsibility might just inspire more people to make it work. 

When you face the terror of making imperfect, high stakes decisions and weather the results, you grow. 

You become a force, fuelled by your proven courage and integrity. 

The Decision Tree Process helps teams make tough decisions. Get the free pdf download here.