How to Be a Good Decision Maker

Sometimes it can be challenging to make the right decision. And if you make a wrong decision, it can cost you.

That's why I am sharing these tips on how to make good decisions. The following tips can help you become an awesome decision maker. Let's go.

Tip #1 - Don't make decisions when you are emotionally down. When we are in a low spot, it can be difficult to make a balanced decision since your emotions are pulling you one way.

Wait until you are in a steady frame of mind. A lot of people (myself included) have made decisions in a time of discouragement and it usually doesn't turn out to be the best decision.

Tip #2 - Ask for help from trusted friends and counselors. The Bible tells us in Proverbs that there is safety when you ask other people to help you make a good decision.

Tip #3 - Ask God for wisdom. Wisdom is knowing how to make the right decision. And the good news...God tells us that if we ask Him for wisdom, He will give it to us. Before you make that major decision, get on your knees and ask God to give you the wisdom you need to make the right decision.

Tip #4 - Make decisions based on your vision statement and core values. Your vision and core values are crucial in making the best decision. Line up your core values and run your options through them. Take your vision statement and ask yourself which decision will help you accomplish your vision.

Tip #5 - Look at both the positives and negatives of the decision. Make a list of all the positive things that can come out of making the decision. Then make a list of all the negative things that can come out of making the decision. Which direction provides the most positive results?

Tip #6 - Ask someone to share an opposing view. Does the opposing view make more sense? Weigh the two views against one another.

Tip #7 - Think about what this means for everyone involved. Decisions can become complex when they involve or affect other people, so it helps to create a constructive environment in which to explore the situation and weigh your options.

Tip #8 - Gather all the facts before you make a decision. Decision making shouldn't be impulsive. Take some time to look at all the important facts before making a decision.

Tip #9 - Go with the decision that the average family in your church would be happy with. In most churches or ministries, there are 3 groups of people. The first group is the more conservative group. The second group is the average family. The third group doesn't care what you do. You could order t-shirts with a curse word on it for your volunteers and they wouldn't care (that's a little extreme, but you get the point).

Yes, you will hear about it from the more conservative group. They are normally the most vocal. But remember, if you want to reach families, then make the decision based on the average family.

Tip #10 - Think about the consequences. There are always consequences involved when you make a big decision. People may have their feelings hurt. People may pull away from you. People may be happy with the decision and jump in with you. Make a list of the possible consequences both ways and weigh it out.

Tip #11 - Do the most loving thing. Often you will face decisions that give you the opportunity to build up or push someone down. Remember this - always do the most loving thing. Which decision is going to help the person grow? Was the person making the decision having a stressful week with a big event happening? Weigh in the factors, and again...do the most loving thing. Perhaps what the person needs is grace and mercy.

Tip #12 - Look back at previous results. What happened when you made a decision like this in the past? Does it lead you to another "yes" decision or did it turn out to be a decision you should have said "no" to? The past is a good indicator of the present.

Did you know that each year over 60,000 people decide to have a tattoo removed or covered up? What may seem like a good idea now may not be a good idea long-term. Use the tips to help you make good decisions or you may find yourself trying to remove the consequences of a bad decision.