It’s human nature to rely on our instincts and emotions when making decisions. However, our emotions can often cloud our judgment, leading us to make choices that we may later regret. When we’re stressed, anxious, or excited, we’re more likely to prioritise short-term gratification over long-term benefits.

For example, imagine you’re feeling overwhelmed at work. You might be tempted to lash out at a colleague or take on additional responsibilities, even if it means sacrificing your own well-being. While these actions may provide temporary relief, they can lead to negative consequences, such as damaged relationships and burnout.

The Power of Intentional Decision-Making

To avoid the pitfalls of emotional decision-making, we need to adopt a more intentional approach. By taking the time to reflect, evaluate, seek insights, execute with intention, and track results, we can make decisions that truly serve our best interests.

Here’s a breakdown of the R.E.S.E.T. framework:

1. Reflect: Pause and identify the emotions that are influencing your decision. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, or excited?
2. Evaluate: Use a decision-making tool, such as a decision matrix, to objectively assess your options. Consider the potential consequences of each choice.
3. Seek Insights: Involve trusted advisors or mentors to gain different perspectives and insights.
4. Execute with Intention: Choose the option that aligns best with your values and long-term goals.
5. Track Results: Monitor the outcomes of your decision and adjust your approach as needed.

The Decision/Weighted Matrix: A Powerful Tool

The Decision/Weighted Matrix is a valuable tool for making complex decisions. To use it, follow these steps:

1. List Your Options: Identify the different choices you have.
2. Set Criteria: Determine the factors that are important to you, such as cost, time, risk, and impact.
3. Weight Criteria: Assign a weight to each criterion based on its importance.
4. Score Options: Rate each option on a scale of 1-5 for each criterion.
5. Analyse Results: Multiply the score by the weight for each criterion and add up the total score for each option. The option with the highest score is the most aligned with your goals.

A Final Thought

Purposeful decision-making isn’t about avoiding difficult choices. It’s about facing them with confidence, clarity, and intention. By embracing a more intentional approach, you can break free from the cycle of reactive behavior and create a more intentional and fulfilling life.

Ready to Make Better Decisions?

Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or simply navigating your personal life, purposeful decision-making matters. Start making choices that align with your long-term goals and values. Explore my Resource Hub, where you’ll find tools, templates, and resources to guide your decision-making process with intention and confidence.

Here’s how to access helpful resources:

• Visit my Resource Hub for valuable tools and guidance.
• Scroll down to Resources and click on arrow No. 3.
• Here you will find the R.E.S.E.T. DECISION-MAKING FRAMEWORK.
• The R.E.S.E.T. DECISION-MAKING FRAMEWORK is a universal, values-driven approach to objective decision-making, available alongside many other helpful resources.

R.E.S.E.T. Your Thinking® and start making decisions that truly matter.