Decision making for High-Schoolers
Decision-making is the process of evaluating information, considering alternatives, and choosing actions that align with one’s goals and values. It is a blend of logic, emotion, and ethics that helps individuals navigate both everyday choices, such as time management, and high-stakes decisions, like career changes.
STUDENTS
2/12/20252 min read
Introduction
Have you ever made a tough choice and later realized it was the wrong one? Decision-making is the process of evaluating information, considering alternatives, and choosing actions that align with one’s goals and values. It is a blend of logic, emotion, and ethics that helps individuals navigate both everyday choices, such as time management, and high-stakes decisions, like career changes.
Why Decision-Making Matters
Decision-making allows people to take control of their lives, whether it is managing finances or resolving conflicts. By strengthening decision-making skills, your brain recognizes patterns and adapts to avoid repeating mistakes.
How to Build Decision-Making Skills
Since decision-making is a skill that improves with practice, let’s explore some ways to strengthen it in your daily life. You can start by making good, everyday decisions, like choosing to eat healthily or go to the gym. If you are stuck, you can do two things: use a pro-con list or follow the 10-10-10 rule.
A pro-con list helps you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of a decision. The 10-10-10 rule involves asking yourself these three questions:
How will this affect me in 10 days?
How will this affect me in 10 months?
How will this affect me in 10 years?
These simple strategies lay the foundation for handling more complex decisions, such as choosing a college or career path. Another helpful approach is to pause and ask yourself: Am I deciding out of fear or logic? This question encourages rational thinking, which often leads to better choices.
Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Thinking
Balancing short-term and long-term thinking is crucial. Short-term thinking involves prioritizing urgencies, such as meeting deadlines, while long-term thinking focuses on the lasting impact of decisions. This could include saving for retirement or avoiding credit card debt. Mastering this balance can lead to smarter financial choices and personal growth. By applying these strategies, you can strengthen your decision-making over time.
Conclusion
By anchoring decision-making in human psychology, everyday relevance, and teachable strategies, this approach equips individuals to thrive in any context. Decision-making is a lifelong skill that grows through practice, reflection, and self-awareness. Next time you’re faced with a tough choice, take a step back and try one of these strategies—you might be surprised at how much easier decision-making becomes!
Good resources to learn more about decision making