Every decision, whether successful or unsuccessful, presents an opportunity for learning. Post-decision reviews identify what has worked and what has not. This reflection, in context, can transform experience into wisdom. To cultivate a habit of reflection, question the ‘why’, ‘what’, ‘when’, ‘how’, and ‘where’ surrounding the decision. Ask yourself and your team: what was the context? what would we do differently? what influenced this choice? were the assumptions accurate? what would we do differently? Over time, this practice sharpens judgment and strengthens future decisions.
Utilizing well-established decision-making paradigms can help leaders make high-quality business and organizational decisions. Each approach has strengths and weaknesses, depending on the context and the goal. By learning about these approaches and understanding when to use them, leaders can better grasp the ‘when,’ ‘why,’ ‘what,’ and ‘how’ of decision-making processes.
Tyler de la Plaine, Founder and Principle Consultant
Thrive Venture Consulting — bringing people and ideas together.