10 Techniques for Confident and Effective Decision Making

Making decisions is something we deal with on a daily basis. Whether these decisions are of minor or major importance, the whole process can be draining and exhausting. However, I have developed effective methods through self-improvement that have simplified the decision-making process for me. These techniques not only make it easier, but also bring a sense of satisfaction when a decision is made.

The First Technique

This technique is founded on my belief that there are no incorrect decisions or choices. Though it may seem clichéd or trite, I genuinely hold the conviction that all of our choices are correct in some way. Any experience, whether it teaches us what not to do or how not to behave, is still valuable and meaningful.

With this in mind, I am able to find solace in the belief that we always select what we need at that moment, and that our choices guide us towards the path we ought to take.

By trusting that everything occurs for our greater good, the fear of making a wrong decision dissipates. This mindset empowers me to make decisions from a place of tranquility and positivity, and it always aids me in the decision-making process.

The Second Technique

When I find it challenging to make a decision, I often shift my focus to the future. By doing so, I can gain a fresh perspective on the problem and discover new solutions.

To accomplish this, I imagine myself in the future, perhaps five, ten, or fifteen years down the line, and pose the question: Which decision would cause more regret - taking action or doing nothing?

I then visualize the possible outcomes of each choice, considering how they would impact my life. This approach helps me to illuminate the path forward and choose the best course of action.

The Third Technique

This technique involves reflecting on the past instead of looking towards the future, which may be more accessible for those who struggle with imagining what hasn't happened yet.

By revisiting my inner child, I can tap into a simpler way of decision-making by asking her: Which option brings you joy?

Children tend to make choices more effortlessly because they lack the what-if anxieties that adults often imagine before making a decision. Instead, children follow their happiness, which is ultimately the state we want to achieve when making choices.

The Fourth Technique

This technique does not demand any creative actions like the previous two, but it does require self-reflection.

I stand before the mirror and ask the person looking back at me: Which option enables you to grow, progress and move closer to the life you desire in the long term?

If you are still unsure or not ready to decide, you can jot down your goals and intentions on paper. This exercise might help you crystallize the answer.

The Fifth Technique

To protect ourselves from potential threats, our brains have been programmed for years to always think of the worst-case scenarios first. However, we must also protect ourselves from falling into things that never materialize outside of our minds, as they often seem scarier there than they actually are.

To do so, I reflect on these questions:

What is the worst that can happen if I choose this option?

And then:

What is the best that could happen?

Transferring these thoughts onto paper can have positive effects, just like in the previous technique.

The Sixth Technique

You know that feeling when something seems like the right decision, but you still have a strange feeling in your stomach when you want to go for it? This happens to all of us when we don't actually agree with a decision we've made. It's important not to ignore our inner feelings and intuition but to listen to them carefully, especially when making decisions.

That's why I often ask myself before making a choice:

Am I ready and in harmony with that decision with my whole being?

If there's something inside me holding back, I just know what to do. Trusting our inner guidance can lead to more authentic and fulfilling choices.

The Seventh Technique

This is a purely creative technique that involves taking a moment to relax, sitting back comfortably, and allowing ourselves to delve into our innermost feelings.

I visualize one option and focus on how it makes me feel. Then, I visualize the second option and do the same. Finally, I compare the intensity and quality of each feeling to gain insight into which option resonates with me the most.

The Eighth Technique

If you are aware of your destination, it becomes easier to take the right steps. Therefore, do not delay getting to know yourself, including your goals, dreams, desires, and essence. This is the only way you will know where you need to go and which decisions you need to make to get there.

Do not hesitate to ask yourself:

Which decision aligns with your truth and essence and allows you to live more authentically?

The ninth technique

In the end, after making a decision, I pay close attention to any internal resistance or opposition within me. It's important to remember that nothing is permanent - even if you decide to cut your hip-length hair short, it will still grow back after a while. So, be aware that although you've made a decision, you can always change your mind later if it no longer feels right for you. It's perfectly okay to change your mind.

The tenth technique

You will experience a sense of certainty and ease within yourself, knowing that you have made the right decision. Being in harmony with your mind, body, and emotions will allow you to recognize this feeling, as your body will communicate it to you.

Make your choice

Sometimes I utilize all 10 techniques, while other times I may only need to use one. Feel free to choose the techniques that resonate with you the most and make the most sense for your situation. Remember, only the decisions that align with your true self can bring you peace and contentment once you have made the choice.