Decision Making Made Easy

An inability to make decisions can be an enormous burden. It's one of the biggest reasons my clients have trouble staying organized, and I often use decision-making tactics to help them reduce their clutter. I simplify the process by reducing the number of options for them, and I ask a range of strategic questions that will result in a reduced number of options or final answer. I also help them weigh the pros and cons. I have yet to apply Suzy Welch's technique. Have you heard about it?

Suzy Welch has come out with a new book, 10-10-10: A Life-Transforming Idea. I have yet to read this book, but it's on my list. Suzy Welch has applied her new 10-10-10 technique to assist in the decision-making process. The technique is simple: When a decision becomes difficult to address, ask yourself three questions:

1. How will I feel about this decision in 10 minutes?
2. How will I feel about this decision in 10 months?
3. How will I feel about this decision in 10 years?

Suzy talked about her book on the Today show recently. She explained that in the book, she illustrates how her technique works with examples from her own life and from real-life scenarios of others. I was quite intrigued. I plan to apply this tactic with my clients and in my own life to see how it goes.

My only critical thought is, how new can this tactic be? It seems we have all used some similar means to obtain a decision, right? How do you make decision-making easier?

--Sara Bereika, CPO, Neat Organizing

Comments

[Vicky]

I have made pros and cons lists and I also ask myself Is this a need or a want. If it is something like cleaning out a closet or junk room I make three piles or boxes and mark them with Keep-Throw it out or donate-Maybe if it is still there in 6 months to a year I donate it.