Write down the decision and deadline
State precisely what must be decided, by whom and by when. Clarify whether the choice is reversible. Reversible, low-cost decisions often deserve a faster process; high-stakes or irreversible choices justify more evidence and specialist input.
Separate facts, assumptions and preferences
List the three criteria that matter most and weight them if necessary. Mark what is verified, what is an assumption and what simply reflects personal taste. Search for evidence capable of disproving your preferred option; confirmation alone can create false confidence.
Define a review trigger
After selecting an option, identify the first action, an owner and the signal that would justify reassessment. Documenting why a choice was made supports learning later. Good decision-making is not never changing your mind; it is responding rationally when circumstances change.
Practical checklist
- Define the decision, owner and deadline.
- Separate evidence from assumptions and preferences.
- Set a trigger for revisiting the choice.
