Psychologists, neuroscientists, economists and Buddhism scholars are shedding new light on how we make decisions:
We make the best choices when we acknowledge our emotions.
In Western civilization, we’re taught that the best decisions are based on logic and reason. Businesses favor data analysis—hard numbers—over any subjective input colored by emotions.
Most decisions, however, are heavily influenced by emotions, often without our awareness. The brain is prone to making errors and succumbing to biases, no matter how much data we may have.
“Our decision-making capacities are not simply ‘wired in,’ following some evolutionary design. Choosing wisely is a learned skill, which, like any other skill, can be improved with experience.” ~ Reid Hastie and Robyn M. Dawes, Rational Choice in an Uncertain World: The Psychology of Judgment and Decision Making (SAGE Publications, 2009)
It doesn’t matter if we’re determining major corporate strategies or considering minor purchases. Without emotional influences, we’d be incapable of making any decisions.
This article explores the 3 paths to better decision making, and suggests ways to manage and improve your process and decisions.
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This is a brief synopsis of a 900-word article and Article Nuggets*, suitable for consultants’ newsletters for executives and leaders in organizations. It is available for purchase with full reprint rights, which means you may put your name on it and use it in your newsletters, blogs or other marketing materials. You may also modify it and add your personal experiences and perspectives.
The complete article includes these important concepts:
- A Self-Awareness Formula
- Emotions and Moods
- Your Mood Thermostat
- Mindful Meditation
- Physical State
- Social Systems and Group Dynamics
- Emotions and Moods
- Managing Your Decision Docket
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