Here's how you can enhance your decision-making capabilities as an intern during your internship.

1 Seek Feedback

One of the most effective ways to improve your decision-making is by seeking feedback from those around you. As an intern, you're surrounded by experienced professionals who can offer valuable insights into your choices and thought processes. Don't hesitate to ask for their opinions before and after you make a decision. This will help you understand different perspectives, consider factors you might have overlooked, and refine your approach for future decisions.

2 Question Assumptions

To enhance your decision-making, critically evaluate the assumptions that underpin your choices. As an intern, you might accept established methods without question, but innovation often starts with challenging the status quo. Ask yourself why things are done a certain way and whether there's room for improvement. This habit not only aids in making better decisions but also demonstrates your initiative and critical thinking to your employers.

3 Analyze Outcomes

After making a decision, take the time to analyze its outcome. Reflect on what went well, what didn't, and why. This practice, often referred to as a post-mortem analysis, can be incredibly informative. It helps you identify patterns in your decision-making and understand the consequences of your choices, which is crucial for personal and professional growth during your internship.

4 Embrace Risk

Understanding and embracing risk is fundamental to decision-making. As an intern, you might be inclined to play it safe, but taking calculated risks can lead to significant learning experiences. Learn to assess the potential benefits and drawbacks of a decision and be prepared to step outside your comfort zone. This will not only boost your confidence but also show your supervisors that you're willing to take initiative.

5 Develop Intuition

Your intuition can be a powerful tool in decision-making. It's the result of subconscious processing of past experiences and learned knowledge. As an intern, you're building this reservoir of experiences. Trust your gut feelings when they arise, but also question them to ensure they're not based on biases or incomplete information. Balancing intuition with rational analysis can lead to more effective decision-making.

6 Plan Ahead

Lastly, good decision-making often involves anticipating future scenarios and planning accordingly. As an intern, practice looking ahead and considering the long-term implications of your decisions. This foresight can help you make choices that align with both your immediate tasks and broader career goals. By planning ahead, you demonstrate to your supervisors that you're not just thinking about the task at hand but also about how it fits into the bigger picture.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?