Decision Making Made Easy -By Dr.Ted Msipa

Introduction

Decisions are very powerful tools on the face of the earth. Usually, when people are making decisions they overlook the fact that they have implications. Decisions have consequences. This is why I thought we should talk about decision-making. Decision-making can be undertaken in five clear stages, the basic stage, the fact or informational stage, the feedback stage, the focus stage, and the forward stage.

Stage One- Basic Decision

In the basic decision stage, as a leader, the key thing you establish is why are you where you are. Why is your organization operating the way it is, what are the decisions that created that status quo? Who made such decisions? This is what will help you solve the problem. The foundation is useful for a leader to understand the challenges better. Without history, you will be lost in the malaise of confusion and conformity.

The Information Stage

You can proceed to establishing the facts stage, what do I need to know is the first question here. Then what do I know is the second question, and finally the third question is what do I not know. If you can answer these questions, you will be able to decide on a more informed basis. Decision-making has to be based on quality information not emotional goosebumps.

The Feedback Stage

Once the decision is made and released, as a leader you wait for the backlash or feedback from the team you lead. Some people will cheer on your decisions, but others will ensure that they shoot you down. Whichever way, you will get feedback. This stage calls for wisdom and strategic thinking, coupled with emotional intelligence. The most important feedback will be what filters from your inner circle, they are your ears and eyes who stand in objectively for you. But generally speaking, the feedback that matters should be from experts in the matter, skillful practitioners, experienced people, and those who are responsible. If we can have much feedback from these categories, our decision-making will be on point for sure.

The Procedures and Problems Stage

The fourth stage takes you to the outer circle where you will need to focus on two major pillars, these being procedures and problems. Procedures are very important but they need to be communicated with clarity, conviction, and consideration. However, problems are the real issue in this context. You can start by anticipating them, writing them down, and dealing with them. But the most important thing about problems is that you should outrank them. Commit to a specific action plan and follow through with it.

The Closure Stage

Finally, move forward knowing that you bear full responsibility for the decision. All decisions certainly have consequences. Time is also an important component of the decision-making combo. The timing of your decision is very key. A wrong decision at the wrong time will culminate in a disaster. The right decision at the right time is your success story.

The difference between your success and failure boils down to your decision-making ability. May the leader in you rise to conquer. Jesus Christ is the Ultimate Leader. Follow him and people will follow you.

email: ted.msipa@gmail.com