In the Decision Making Part 1: The BIG Decision to Become an Entrepreneur post, I wrote about the BIG decision to become an entrepreneur. Today I’m going to discuss how to make decisions, once you have taken the leap in starting your own business. Some of you may think this is silly, but trust me, making decisions is not an easy process for most people out there, though it is an integral part of running your own business.

I recommend the following tips to help you make better decisions:

1. Learn to be OK with your decision: once you have made a decision, accept it. There is nothing worse than sitting on the fence about a decision you have already made, as it causes you to doubt yourself and your ability to make decisions. If you have trouble with the decision making process, acknowledge that fact, become aware of it, and check out the articles below on how to become a better decision maker. Once you’ve done that and are faced with a decision, be okay with what you have decided and move on. There’s plenty of other things you need to concentrate on rather than second guessing yourself!
2. Don’t let yourself be persuaded by negativity: you will always be faced with those that challenge you and those that support you with regards to a decision you have made. In the face of challenge, you have to become resilient and act accordingly. Those that challenge you also serve a purpose – so don’t discount them. Usually they are the ones that help you develop a thicker skin – so the next time someone challenges you, become aware of what is happening, welcome the process, and be thankful for the opportunity to express yourself by making another solid decision. Of course, this doesn’t mean you subject yourself to criticism, obviously don’t let people step on you, so just be aware of this the next time you are faced with a challenge.
3. Celebrate the small things in life: making decisions can be a tough process. Some people are better at it than others, so my advice to you is to celebrate the small things in life. Welcome and reward the experience when you do make a decision and stick with it. Sometimes small decisions can be just as daunting as big decisions, it’s all a matter of perspective. The point is to give yourself a pat on the back for the fact that you have made the decision – there are many out there that haven’t even gotten to this point – they just sit on the fence. So the next time you worry and fret about making a decision – use the processes in the articles below to help you, and remember to use your intuition to guide you in making the decision. Once it’s made, reward yourself and carry on.

The following articles are also great resources for helping you become better at decision making:

5 Tips for Making Better Decisions
This article is concise and a great read. I really like point 3 and point 5. Giving your brain a rest by meditating, or moving onto another task is an excellent way to allow yourself to relax enough to let your intuitive side kick in, and being open and honest enough to admit when you’ve made a mistake is key and a really great exercise for your ego.

Mind Tools: Six Thinking Hats
This article allows you to look at the decision making process from a variety of perspectives, as written by Edward de Bono as the ‘Six Thinking Hats’ technique. I found this post quite refreshing since it is a unique and interesting way to approach the topic. You can find more information as well in Edward de Bono’s book, Six Thinking Hats.

6 Steps to Better Decision Making
Duncan Brodie’s article is a great resource for how to make better decisions. His point on getting clear on your ideal outcome is excellent since, once again, he’s using the power of intention to guide you. If you don’t see your end result, how do you expect to know where you will end up? You have to get crystal clear on what you want, and only then will you be able to attract the circumstances and opportunities to get you there.

I look forward to your comments about the decision making process. It’s always great to hear new ways that work for weighing the pros and cons of the next decision.