Improve your Decision Making in 2024!
Every week in clinic I remind clients that they have a choice- to be mindful. Making decisions is an integral part of our everyday existence both in our personal and professional lives. We consider various options and form conclusions based on the knowledge we possess at the time. Nevertheless, the process of decision making can be complex and challenging. Therefore understanding the psychological elements behind your decision making becomes crucial to your success in 2024. Let’s explore rational decision making vs emotional reactivity…
“When your heart meets your head you know it’s the right decision”
Rational Decision Making
Rational decision making is a cognitive process which you gather the available information, evaluate the consequences of your choices and select the option that aligns most closely with your goals and values. It isoften logical, reasonable and a deliberate evaluation of the pros and cons associated with different choices.
The benefits of rational decision making
Consistency- rational decision making tends to be more consistent and predictable outcomes, as decisions are based on objective criteria and evidence.
Goal Alignment- rational decisions are more likely to align with your goals and values, ensuring that your choices contribute to your overall well-being and vision.
Reduced Impulsivity- A rational approach helps individuals avoid impulsive and potentially regrettable decisions by considering the consequences beforehand.
Emotional Reactivity
Emotional reactivity on the other hand, involves making your decisions based on your immediate emotional responses to a situation. This can lead to impulsive actions driven by your feelings such as anger, fear and lust.
Benefits of Emotional Reactivity
Survival Instinct- Emotional reactivity can be beneficial in situations where quick, instinctual responses are required for survival or protection. For example, reacting with fear in a life threatening situation can be crucial.
Human Connection- Emotions are essential for building and maintaining human relationships, as they can facilitate empathy and understanding.
Creativity and innovation- some creative breakthroughs stem from emotional insights and intuition as emotions can provide visions and dreams for the future.
Striking a balance for success.
The key to success lies in striking a balance between rationality and emotional reactivity. Here are some considerations for achieving this…
Develop your Emotional Intelligence- this allows you to recognise and manage your emotions. This enables you to harness the benefits of emotional reactivity while avoiding impulsive decisions that may lead to regret.
Pause and Reflect- when faced with a significant decision, it can be helpful to take a step back, pause and reflect. This brief moment or an overnighter allows you to consider both your emotional responses and the rational of the situation.
Consultation- Seeking a new perspective from trusted friends, family members, or colleagues can be valuable. These individuals can offer insights grounded in rationality and objectivity, helping to balance your emotional reactions. This doesn’t mean however to do as they say the conclusion and decision is still your own.
Time Management- time management techniques, such as setting aside a specific time to discussion and decision making. This allows emotions to settle can prevent hasty decisions driven solely on emotional reactivity like an argument.
Balancing rational decision making and emotional reactivity is an on going challenge and a skill. While emotions play a crucial part in our lives, they should not be the sole driving force behind our decisions. Rationality provides a necessary counter balance, ensuring that choices align with our goals, values and long term well-being.
If this topic has resonated with you please comment or get in touch.
Helen x