Decisions shape our lives — from the tiny ones (like what to eat for dinner) to the ones that change our paths entirely (like moving to a new city, changing jobs, or starting a PhD… 😉). We all want to make better decisions, but how do we actually do it? Especially when things feel uncertain, fast-paced, or emotionally charged?
Over time, I’ve found that the key is intentionality. Making space to think clearly, aligning with what truly matters, and using simple tools can turn a decision from overwhelming to manageable. Here’s what has helped me — a mix of mindset shifts and practical frameworks.
Mindset Shifts for Better Decision-Making
1. Start With Clarity: What Really Matters to You?
Before diving into any decision, pause and ask:
What do I value most in this context?
Is it freedom, stability, learning, connection, growth, impact, health?
When you get clear on your values, decisions become easier — not because they’re less complex, but because your compass is working. You’re not choosing randomly. You’re aligning.
2. Think Beyond “Either/Or”
Sometimes we fall into binary thinking — should I stay or go? Say yes or no?
Instead, ask:
What other options am I not seeing?
Could I propose a middle ground? Delay the decision? Test it with a small experiment?
Creative solutions often emerge once we escape the trap of “A vs B.”
3. Give It Time (If You Can)
Your brain is processing even when you’re not thinking consciously. Sleeping on a decision — or simply stepping away for a walk — can reveal what really feels right. I’ve found that if something still feels off after 24–48 hours, there’s probably a reason.
Decision-Making Tools That Actually Help
Sometimes, a little structure goes a long way. These are the tools I turn to when my thoughts feel foggy or the stakes are high.
1. Pros and Cons List
Simple but powerful. Listing the positives and negatives of each option helps externalize your thought process.
Tip:
Make two lists per option — one for short-term pros/cons and one for long-term. This gives you a fuller picture and surfaces trade-offs that aren’t immediately obvious.
2. Decision Matrix (Pugh Matrix)
Ideal when you’re comparing three or more options across multiple criteria.
Steps:
- List your options (A, B, C…)
- Choose evaluation criteria (e.g., cost, time, alignment with goals, learning potential)
- Score each option (e.g., 1–5)
- Add up the scores
It brings clarity and structure — and can often highlight a clear frontrunner that wasn’t obvious at first.
3. Pre-Mortem Analysis
Before making a decision, imagine it failed. Ask:
“What could go wrong?”
This reversal exercise helps you anticipate potential risks and weaknesses ahead of time. It’s a great way to shift from blind optimism to thoughtful preparation — without falling into fear.
4. The Pareto Principle (80/20 Rule)
The Pareto Principle suggests that 80% of results often come from 20% of the effort. When facing a decision, ask:
What’s the 20% of this decision that will give me 80% of the value?
Which option simplifies things while still creating meaningful progress?
This is especially useful when you’re overthinking or trying to “optimize” too much.
5. SWOT Matrix (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
Great for strategic decisions — especially when you need to weigh internal and external factors.
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
| Higher salary | Far from family |
| More responsibilities | Unfamiliar culture |
| Opportunities | Threats |
|---|---|
| Expand your network | Risk of burnout |
| Learn something new | Cost of living |
Once it’s visual, the decision becomes less abstract and more grounded.
6. Eisenhower Matrix (Urgent vs Important)
This tool helps you prioritize by distinguishing between urgency and importance.
| Urgent | Not Urgent | |
|---|---|---|
| Important | Do First | Schedule It |
| Not Important | Delegate | Eliminate |
Ask yourself:
Is this truly important, or just demanding attention?
Use this to cut through noise and focus on decisions that actually move the needle.
✨ Final Thoughts
Better decisions don’t come from knowing everything — they come from slowing down, tuning in, and having a few tools in your back pocket. Over time, decision-making becomes less about stress and more about trust — in your values, your thinking, and your ability to adapt.
What’s one decision you’ve made recently that taught you something?
Arabela Navarro 