Decisions: A Different Starting Point

(8/14/22)

I. A Misguided Start

In the past, faced with a decision, I started by asking myself:

What should I do?

Searching for answers on my own and failing to seek guidance, I made poor decisions. Poor decisions led to frustration, impatience, and further close-minded doggedness.

Unsurprisingly, more poor decisions followed.

Bad decisions beget bad decisions.

II. A Re-Orientation

After years of sub-optimal decisions, I discovered a different starting point. Then, developed a sequence of questions to guide my decisions.

The sequence is designed to orient and guide. To help us start from a better place, guide our decisions, and bring solutions to us.

III. The Sequence

First, ask yourself, “Who could help?”
Someone you know, or they know, likely faced a similar decision or challenge, and solved it. Alternatively, going at it alone leaves wisdom on the table and increases risk. Notably, starting with “who” compels us to specifically identify what decision is required and our challenge, enabling us to communicate it clearly and precisely.

Second, ask them, “How did you do it?”
Discover how they solved their problem. Their micro-decisions along the way, missteps, unintended consequences, and lessons will save you resources and avoid frustration.

Third, ask them, “How would you do it now?”
Invite them to solve your problem. Their depth of experience and insight may unexpectedly and effortlessly surface your solution.

Fourth, ask them, “When should I act?”
Timing may be the most elusive aspect of decision making. Understanding when they chose to act or be still, will uncover how time can become your invisible ally.

Fifth, when necessary, ask them, “Who else could help us?”
Reach into the wisdom of their network. Time invested now will save you time later. The outcome of this question may astound you.

Finally, if necessary, ask them, “What should I do?”
The answer reveals itself when we see how others solved our challenge.

IV. The Opportunity of “Who”

When facing a decision, starting with “who” opens possibility and creates opportunity.

Opportunities to extend our network and expand the range of possible solutions. To create relationships and welcome solutions.

How may our decisions and outcomes look differently, years from now, if we begin with “who”?