Regardless if you are a decision maker or not, you need to know and truly believe that by making both the right and wrong decisions, you are only to gain! “I never lose. I either win or I learn.” Nelson Mandela
Unfortunately, the way our brain works, makes it challenging for us to acknowledge that we can benefit from poor decisions. It’s easier to become upset, distract ourselves, feel embarrassed, or give up altogether.
Consider these strategies to win regardless if it’s a right or wrong decision:
- There is always a lesson to be taught. Learn it! It is painful to examine your poor choices. However, do you know what’s even more painful? Making the same mistake again!
- Move on. Stop moaning, stop beating around the same problem with no constructive thinking. A poor decision that you’ve never made before isn’t a bad thing. It’s just life.
- Take responsibility. Taking responsibility allows you to retain control of the situation.
- Talk it out. An outsider often has a different, if not more reasonable perspective.
- Stay present. It’s easy to let your mind run wild after making a poor decision. It’s hard to stay focused when things go wrong. Allowing your mind to wander is just a form of distraction. Pay attention to what is happening right now.
- Remember what you still have. Whether your decision cost you your business or your partner, it is NOT the end of the world. Count your blessings.
- Forgive yourself. Accept the consequences of your choice and move forward. It’s impossible to always make perfect decisions.
Imagine if you had done any of the above after each mistake was made. Your life would be very different and you would be an unstoppable machine!!!
Remember, everyone makes bad decisions. The key is to make the most of them. Spend a few minutes each week reviewing your bad choices and learn from them. Most importantly, avoid repeating them. Move on and benefit from your mistakes.
“The risk of a wrong decision is preferable to the terror of indecision.” Maimonides
Fotis
