Decision Making

5 mental traps of decision-making

May 9, 2019
Heuristics are defined as mental shortcuts, or unconscious routines, to help us deal with the complexities of decision-making. Most of the time, these shortcuts serve us well—but they can undermine our objectivity. Here are five psychological traps, or biases, that often derail business decisions.

Got a problem? Think it over

May 2, 2019
Thinking through a problem deeply—long before taking any action—may be the key to solving it.

Pounce on fear to make progress

October 11, 2018
Most people respond to fear by trying to shove it aside so they can resume their work. But denying its intense power can prove futile.

Nobody likes a know-it-all

July 12, 2018
Both you and your people will benefit if you can show a little humility through simple asides, like “Sometimes I jump to conclusions.”

Take ‘4R’ test before deciding

June 14, 2018
When you get close to making a decision, apply this “4R Test” for leaders.

The ‘Monty Hall problem’: Logic gone bad

April 12, 2018
The “Monty Hall problem” became the subject of essays, papers and even books as an example of supposedly clear truths becoming anything but upon closer inspection.

Reach consensus fast

March 20, 2018
If you want 100% consensus before you make a decision, chances are you’ll be waiting a long time. Rather than trying to elicit a “Yes” from every member of your team, follow these steps.

When decisions bite back

February 23, 2018

Decisions always have a ripple effect of unforeseen consequences.

Risks, benefits of decision-making

October 11, 2017
Deciding is a process, not an event, so use that process to learn. Here are some benefits, risks and challenges.

The tough decision checklist: Finish it and sleep soundly tonight

August 16, 2017
Stop second-guessing yourself and get out a pen. After you go coolly through this checklist point by point, you’ll be ready to stand up and make that difficult call—no hesitation, and no regrets.