Learn from the examples of others who have made tough decisions at work, and follow these steps to find the best solution for yourself and your organization.

It always seemed sensible to ask the first question which is " who is resposible for taking the decision". So often we like to jump in and take over when in reality the decision making lies elsewhere.

You’re facing a tough decision at work. What are some examples of how others have made it through?

Making a tough decision at work can be stressful and challenging, especially if it involves significant consequences, risks, or trade-offs. You may feel uncertain, conflicted, or pressured by various factors and stakeholders. How can you navigate this situation and find the best solution for yourself and your organization? In this article, we will share some examples of how others have made it through tough decisions at work, and what you can learn from their experiences.

1 Identify the problem and the goal

The first step in any decision-making process is to clearly define the problem and the goal. What is the issue you are facing, and what are you trying to achieve? By framing the problem and the goal in a specific and measurable way, you can narrow down your options and criteria. For example, one manager had to decide whether to invest in a new technology or stick with the existing one. He identified the problem as the need to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction, and the goal as reducing costs and increasing revenue.

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Adrian Wright FRSA MIoD🇺🇦

Chairman Brindisa
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It always seemed sensible to ask the first question which is " who is resposible for taking the decision". So often we like to jump in and take over when in reality the decision making lies elsewhere.

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Diamantino A.

Tech Lead | DevOps, Cloud & Digital Transformation Leader | Career Coach & Mentor
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Sometimes, the crucial question of why a problem needs solving is overlooked, particularly when we swiftly shift to a solution-oriented mindset. Understanding the business goals, objectives, and motivations behind addressing a particular problem offers greater insight into its importance and prioritization. It's essential to recognize that what might be a problem for one person may not hold the same significance for others. Taking the time to comprehend the scope of the problem ensures a more comprehensive and effective approach to finding solutions.

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2 Gather relevant information and feedback

The next step is to gather as much relevant information and feedback as possible to inform your decision. This may include data, research, best practices, expert opinions, customer insights, and stakeholder perspectives. You should also consider the pros and cons, the risks and benefits, and the short-term and long-term implications of each option. For example, one entrepreneur had to decide whether to expand her business or sell it to a larger competitor. She collected information on the market trends, the financial projections, the legal aspects, and the personal impact of each choice.

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Diamantino A.

Tech Lead | DevOps, Cloud & Digital Transformation Leader | Career Coach & Mentor
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Data and facts are indispensable in decision-making, although gut feelings also play a role. It's crucial to gather as much data as possible from diverse sources and avoid letting judgments and assumptions solely dictate your thought process. Training sessions focusing on biases and decision-making can be valuable in honing these skills, ensuring a more objective and informed approach to choices.

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3 Evaluate your options and alternatives

The third step is to evaluate your options and alternatives based on the information and feedback you have gathered. You should use a logical and systematic approach to compare and contrast the different possibilities, and weigh them against your criteria and goals. You can also use tools such as decision matrices, SWOT analysis, cost-benefit analysis, or scenario planning to help you visualize and quantify your options. For example, one teacher had to decide whether to pursue a higher degree or a leadership position. He evaluated his options based on his career aspirations, his financial situation, his workload, and his personal interests.

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Diamantino A.

Tech Lead | DevOps, Cloud & Digital Transformation Leader | Career Coach & Mentor
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Taking the time to digest data and transform it into actionable information is crucial for informed decision-making. Anticipating the outcomes of decisions is imperative to weigh the pros and cons of different approaches. I advocate for decisions that are modular, adaptable, and secure in the long term, allowing for subsequent decisions to build upon a solid foundation. This approach ensures flexibility and sustainability in the face of evolving circumstances.

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4 Seek guidance and support

The fourth step is to seek guidance and support from others who can offer you valuable advice, insights, or perspectives. You can reach out to your mentors, peers, colleagues, friends, or family members who have faced similar decisions or who have relevant expertise or experience. You can also consult with professional coaches, counselors, or consultants who can help you clarify your goals, values, and preferences, and challenge your assumptions and biases. For example, one nurse had to decide whether to relocate to another city or stay in her current job. She sought guidance and support from her mentor, her partner, her co-workers, and a career coach.

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5 Make and implement your decision

The final step is to make and implement your decision with confidence and commitment. You should review your decision-making process and ensure that you have followed the best practices and principles. You should also communicate your decision clearly and respectfully to those who are affected by it, and explain your rationale and expectations. You should also monitor and evaluate the outcomes and impacts of your decision, and be ready to adjust or revise it if necessary. For example, one engineer had to decide whether to accept a promotion or a lateral move. He made and implemented his decision based on his skills, interests, and goals, and communicated it to his manager and his team.

Making a tough decision at work is not easy, but it can be rewarding and empowering if you follow these steps and learn from the examples of others. Remember that you are not alone, and that you can always seek guidance and support from your mentors and peers. What are some of the tough decisions you have faced at work, and how did you make it through?

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Tony Vidmar, MBA

Vice President for Institutional Advancement & Executive Director- Tarleton State University Foundation
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Realize that you are not alone ( if you choose to accept and work with others.) One of the worst things that can happen is being isolated from your team. Facing a tough situation is not easy, but it is often times doable with the support of others !

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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You’re facing a tough decision at work. What are some examples of how others have made it through?

1

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1 Identify the problem and the goal

2 Gather relevant information and feedback

3 Evaluate your options and alternatives

4 Seek guidance and support

5 Make and implement your decision

6 Here’s what else to consider

Mentoring

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You’re facing a tough decision at work. What are some examples of how others have made it through?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Identify the problem and the goal

2 Gather relevant information and feedback

3 Evaluate your options and alternatives

4 Seek guidance and support

5 Make and implement your decision

6 Here’s what else to consider

Mentoring

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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