A520.3.1RB_Kesler, Kelley

Decision Making

What are a few words that describe your decision-making style?

Cautious

Logical

Emotional

Influenced by others

Quiet

Active

What are the opposites of the words you chose?

Risk taking

Intuitive

Self motivative

Rational

Passive

Assertive

Could you see any benefits to making decision using an approach that is based on either the opposites or somewhere in-between and what outcomes would you expect to see?

     I must admit these two questions really made me think about my decision making style.  I can honestly say, that I make decisions with as much information and as thoroughly as possible.  This sometimes is to my detriment.  When I was thinking and writing down the antonyms to my decision making style, I really stopped and thought when I wrote down risk taking. 

     I realized that I’m not a risk taker with any decision...  Even the simplest decisions.  I truly believe that this has affected my decision making style.  Please don’t interpret this the wrong way. I’m not saying that an individual should be risk taker in all decisions, but that I’m NEVER risk taker in any decision that I make. For example, I tend not be a risk taker with menu choices...  I know that if I have my favorite I won’t be disappointed but I might find a new favorite if I take a risk.

     By looking at the list of words and their opposites it creates a clear picture of how I make decisions and could really make decisions better.  Currently, when I make a decision I exhaust the what if’s...  I drive myself crazy with the what if’s..  I feel that if I need to be more assertive and a risk taker in my decision making skills.                    Additionally, I need to try to not to question my decisions.  I have made the decision to accept a new job, but I’m still thinking about what happens if I stay, how will my current coworkers be affected by my decision, who will be mad if I leave.. etc...  All of these thoughts are not productive.  I tend to get stressed out about the emotional effects of my decision instead of being productive....  

I have committed to my decision, after reading the material and watching the video’s I’m going to make a conscious effort to be a risk taker and not question my decisions.