Why You Should Focus On Making Your Decisions Right

A perfect decision is an illusion.

In the world of entrepreneurship, innovation, and even everyday life, the quest for the perfect decision can be paralyzing. We often believe that if we analyze every possible outcome and weigh every variable, we can make the “right” decision.

However, this mindset is not only unrealistic but also counterproductive. As Ellen Langer, a Harvard professor and the “mother of mindfulness,” points out, the idea of making the perfect decision is an illusion.

The Real Challenge: Making Decisions Right

Instead of striving for perfection, focus on making your decisions right. This means committing to your choice and working diligently to ensure its success.

In an interview for my podcast with Ellen Langer, she emphasizes that remarkable people don’t second-guess themselves; they take their best shot and make the decision right.

You can listen to the full interview here.

The Stress of Decision-Making

One of the significant sources of stress in decision-making is the fear of making the wrong choice. Langer’s research suggests that this stress can be mitigated by changing our approach.

She conducted an experiment where participants either made decisions randomly or deliberated over every small choice. Both groups reported similar levels of satisfaction, highlighting that the act of making a decision and committing to it is more important than the decision itself.

Practical Steps to Make Decisions Right

• Commit Fully: Once a decision is made, commit to it wholeheartedly. This commitment will drive you to make the best of the situation, regardless of the initial outcome.

• Adapt and Adjust: Be prepared to adapt and adjust your approach as new information and circumstances arise. Flexibility is key to making your decision work.

• Focus on Implementation: The success of a decision often lies in its implementation. Pay attention to the execution and be proactive in addressing any challenges that come up.

• Learn and Iterate: Use each decision as a learning opportunity. Reflect on what worked and what didn’t, and use these insights to inform future decisions.

Conclusion

In a world of constant change and uncertainty, the ability to make decisions right is a crucial skill, and I would argue as important as making the right decision.

By focusing on commitment, adaptability, and effective implementation, you can turn any decision into the right one.

Remember, the goal is not to make the perfect decision but to make your decision perfect.

Now watch this short video! This is from a surfing competition in Manhattan Beach, California. Much of surfing is looking and hoping for the “right” wave. But sometimes you pick the wrong wave—or the wave picks you.

You can then choose what to do: get crushed by the water or popup, get a ride, and score points. And this is what my daughter chose to do!

By the way, don’t miss this week’s episode on Remarkable People with Jerry Colonna!

In this powerful episode, former venture capitalist Jerry Colonna discusses his transition from the finance world to becoming an executive coach and author focused on leadership, ethics, and our universal longing to belong.

Jerry shares his personal story of overcoming depression and redefining success, challenging listeners to consider their own role in dismantling division and building a more compassionate society.

Tune in here!

Mahalo!

Guy