As a recruiter specializing in executive placements, I'm often acting as a coach to indecisive candidates. Wishy-washy behavior has no place in higher level employment, and what looks like flexibility and careful analysis in lower roles can sink your C-suite potential quickly. It's all about habits. That's why my recommendation is to take a week and stop considering. Really. Go with your gut instinct and never backtrack on a decision. If this means you pulled on an unmatching shirt and jacket in a rush -- go with it, because even small choices should stick. What you'll notice at the end of the week, is that nothing fell apart and likely, no one noticed that your outfit clashed. All that overthinking and second-guessing wasn't worth the time after all, and it didn't have a meaningful impact on your efficacy.
One technique that's been particularly effective is the "pre-mortem" strategy. It's about envisioning a future where the decision went wrong and then working backward. Executives analyze the failure to pinpoint potential pitfalls and biases before they make their choice. This approach shifts the mindset from predicting success to preventing failure, fostering more comprehensive decision-making. It's proactive, not reactive. It instills a culture of deep analysis and encourages executive leaders to look at decisions from multiple angles, drastically reducing the risk of oversight.
One effective technique I used, is implementing scenario planning exercises- "What If?". By simulating various business scenarios, executives can refine their decision-making skills, anticipate challenges, and build confidence in their strategic choices, ultimately contributing to trust within the organization.
At Startup House, we encourage executives to practice the "5-5-5 Rule" - take 5 minutes to gather information, 5 minutes to analyze options, and 5 minutes to make a decision. This technique helps streamline the decision-making process, prevent overthinking, and promote quick, effective choices. By implementing this rule, executives can improve their ability to make timely and informed decisions, ultimately leading to better outcomes for the company.
TEDx Speaker | Time Management Coach & Executive Trainer at Present and Productive | Origami Day
Answered 2 years ago
Weekly Planning will enhance even the most productive executive’s decision making! Every Friday, I start by writing out (yes, on paper) the things I know I need to do in the coming week for both my life and my work. After that, I fill in the gaps with the things I hope to complete during the remaining time - for both my life and my work. Finally, I utilize digital reinforcement to support my plans and communicate important information to others on my team. By making plans a full week in advance, we are able to see what is coming and ensure we are prepared instead of stressed. This ensures we are making the best decisions as we are in the best mental space to do so. Weekly planning has helped me to live and work more proactively. Through weekly planning, anyone can more present in life and even more productive in their days.