We want to be sure about the decisions we make. We must assess the options and be clear about what is best for us. Will we ever honestly know what is best? It is, at best, the best decision we can make at this very time. It applies to what you will order for dinner, the college you choose to attend, the new job you take, and even the person you decide to spend the rest of your life with. Do we ever know if we made the best choice?
The decision and the appropriateness of it are all dependent on us. It is rare that when we belabor a decision, we make a different one from the one that seemed appropriate early on. For example, the college student applies to one school versus the one who applies to 27. Are their eventual experiences vastly different? What of the turmoil, anxiety, and labor consumed? How does that differ? Which student then chooses the courses they will take and has a clear path mapped out? Which one has the time to enjoy day to day and focus on their studies and time with friends?
Being decisive early may be wrong, but who says you will be right by delaying it? Consider your practices in decision-making. How is procrastination helping you in your efficiency? How does this manifest in delays with your team, uncertainty, and missed deadlines?
Being decisive is a trait that is often associated with strong leadership. It is not to be confused with impulsive and erratic. People appreciate the strength in decision making, and speed is a factor.
