Learning Decisiveness

Some men struggle to make decisions. They analyze endlessly, waiting for perfect information that never comes. They defer to others to avoid responsibility. They change their minds constantly, leaving those around them confused and frustrated. Indecision feels safe because you can't be wrong if you never decide. But it has its own costs: missed opportunities, frustrated relationships, and a life that happens to you rather than one you direct.

Decisiveness is a skill that can be developed. It starts with accepting that no decision will ever be perfect.

What Causes Indecision

• Fear of being wrong: Perfectionism paralyzes
• Fear of regret: What if the other option was better?
• Fear of responsibility: Decisions make you accountable
• Too many options: Choice overload overwhelms
• Unclear values: When you don't know what matters, everything matters

A good decision now usually beats a perfect decision later. Analysis has diminishing returns. At some point, you have enough information. Make the call and adjust as you go.

Making Better Decisions

Know your values: Clear priorities simplify choices.

Set a deadline: Give yourself a time limit for deciding.

Accept imperfection: There's rarely a clearly "right" answer.

Trust your gut: Intuition is accumulated wisdom you can't articulate.

Commit fully: Once decided, move forward without constant second-guessing.

When You're Wrong

Being decisive doesn't mean being stubborn. When new information shows you were wrong, adjust. The goal isn't to defend every decision; it's to make decisions that move you forward and correct course when needed. Decisive people aren't always right, but they're always moving.

Your Action Steps

This week: Make one decision you've been putting off. Make it now.

This month: Notice where you stall. What decisions do you avoid most?

This quarter: Clarify your core values so decisions become simpler.