In this series of posts so far, I have presented the following:

• Why we struggle with some decisions
• The consequences of poor decisions
• The outcomes of a good decision-making process

In the upcoming posts, I will present a decision-making process I follow for all important decisions. Here is a summary of the eight-step process. Each one will be expanded on in future posts:

1. Begin with the end in mind – know your outcomes
2. Analyze your alternatives – there may be more than you think
3. Identify and mitigate risks
4. Distance yourself from short-term emotion
5. Have contingency plans
6. Make the decision
7. Evaluate the outcomes
8. Tune the process

Following a good process does not guarantee a successful outcome. But it does put the percentages in your favor and when you look at your decisions as a whole, instead of each in isolation, you will see a pattern of success.

Think or yourself as “The CEO of your life”. Make decisions as if you were in charge of “You, Inc.” In fact, you are the one in charge. Don’t be a victim. Use a sound decision making process.

My Kindle book, “Project Management For The Real World” is available at

http://www.amazon.com/dp/b089krddvn