Blinders Off, A Formula To Figure Out What's Important To You
Do Your Research
Learn rather than confirm. A philosophy for life! You're entering a decision, whether personal or professional, it is crucial you build a foundation of extensive research.
Generally speaking, when you reflect on a decision you will be aware there are multiple lens' with which you can look at it. Some lens' you will prefer and others will probably push the decision in a direction you just don't favor. That's okay, in fact, that's natural!
But, doing a thorough job of acknowledging every possible angle will lead you to a wide variety of viewpoints. Uncover potential pitfalls and importantly, reveal 'needs' you may never have really explored.
Doing research doesn't need to be a 'slog' that feels as if it's lasting a lifetime. Utilize available information, explore all viewpoints and use your community to maximize your diversity of thought.
Get Some Distance, Gain Some Perspective
You're doing your research and your well-involved, but it's true you need to keep distance. I know you're reading this and thinking what does "keeping distance" really mean right now?! It's not like there's anything physical to actually distance from. Well, it's about distancing yourself from pre-conceived ideas.
Similarly to how we discussed earlier about exploring all options to have diversity of thought, acknowledging your own bias towards preferred ideas will help you see a situation more clearly.
You do have a blindside which works against your decision making process. But it's okay, we all do. The key is acknowledging them; remaining curious and inquisitive will expand your perspective.
Different Perspectives Are Important. Even The Annoying Ones
Speaking of perspective... You know where this is going:
- Use as many sources as you can: factual, social, emotional, experience and more.
- Keep an eye out for conflicting information: it's okay to have different viewpoints from different people, but acknowledge the differences and explore them. This will help you shine a light on key points and why they are the way they are.
- Incorporate: you may not have come up with the factors someone offers you, you may not agree with them, but incorporating them will help paint a fuller picture.
Fact Versus Fiction; Feelings As Information
Listen actively with your mind, not your mouth.
We are not really logical beings are we? It would be a nice thought, but realistically we need some help along the way to separate rational and irrational thought. That is why when we are talking with someone, taking onboard emotionally led information is actually fine. But, we must listen to ensure we can discern between facts and fiction; remembering that before we can decide whether we want to take onboard fiction, we must first be in a state to identify it.
Communicate. Well specifically, make sure the person you're talking to understands what you're trying to achieve. Without this understanding, they are never at a point to be able to give you facts. It can seem uncomfortable, but challenging someone to ensure they understand what you're trying to achieve is healthy for both parties.
When Is Enough Really Ever Enough
In a professional environment, we often repeat many decisions, and so knowing when you have enough information becomes quite an easy goal to track. After all, it is only through time that we can begin to understand a decision better, reflecting on it's outcome, consequences, pitfalls, etc.
For a new decision, it will never be a precise calculation for knowing when you have enough. This component is more or less intuitive; you will most likely have a sense of calm in your gut or heart. It sounds cheesy, but it is true!
All of this is involved in what we at ODE call creating your Criteria. The factors you want to take into account when making a choice. They are the 2nd step in our 7 steps.
The app is waiting for you! Hone your decision making process today, hit the chat button and we'll show you where to find it.
As always, with peace and love,
The Team at ODE ❤️
