Simplifying the Decision-Making Process

2024 has been a remarkable year for me. I describe it as remarkable because I chose to leave the comfort and stability of being an employee and embrace the uncertainties of consulting. I didn’t expect the market to be so receptive, but perhaps timing plays a different role for each of us. This year had an unexpectedly positive start.

My journey began with an offer to lead the business development team for a creative hybrid agency. This was soon followed by opportunities to support the sales team for another company, provide assistance to a tech startup, consult for a shipping company, contribute to a multi-solutions firm, and most recently, support an AI development company.

I was overwhelmed.

I had never experienced so many doors opening at once. It was a blessing, but I needed to decide where my skills could be most effectively utilized. I expressed gratitude for the opportunities but knew that I couldn’t pursue all of them simultaneously. This realization prompted me to refine my decision-making process to reduce mental clutter and make clear choices.

Step 1: Define the Problem

First, I clearly defined the problem I was trying to solve. Understanding the core issue helped me establish criteria for evaluating each opportunity. These criteria included factors such as compensation, time commitment, skill alignment, impact, and alignment with my personal goals and values. Clearly defining these criteria allowed me to objectively evaluate each option.

Step 2: Gather Information

Next, I gathered as much relevant information as possible about each offer. This involved conducting research, consulting industry experts, and reflecting on my past experiences. I created a decision matrix, listing my options and rating them against the criteria I had defined. This visual aid provided clarity and made it easier to compare the strengths and weaknesses of each choice. I considered both short-term and long-term consequences, recognizing that some solutions might offer quick fixes but lack sustainability.

Step 3: Involve Stakeholders

Finally, I involved key stakeholders in my decision-making process—in this case, my wife and even my daughter. Their perspectives provided valuable insights and helped me identify potential pitfalls I had overlooked. After gathering their input, I weighed the pros and cons and thoroughly evaluated each option. Trusting the process, I made an informed, systematic, and well-reviewed decision.

Conclusion

For everyone reading this, remember that no solution is perfect, but a well-considered choice is more likely to lead to successful outcomes. After making a decision, continually assess its effectiveness and be prepared to make adjustments as needed.