DECISION MAKING
Decision-making Worksheet
Step 1: is to analyze the situation, sorting out facts from assumptions and then challenging any notions that may be incorrect. (Covey, 1997)
List here any known facts and assumptions.
Step 2: is to form a set of objectives. The simple questions, "What is our objective?" or "What am I to accomplish from this?" always need to be asked to help one define one’s goals. (Covey, 1997)
What is your goal or objective? What are you trying to accomplish? Write that here.
Step 3: of synergistic decision-making is to check for alternative courses of action. This many times is simply a list of pros and cons, brainstorming, or creative thinking sessions. (Covey, 1997)
First of all, make a list of pros and cons.
PROS CONS
Second, brainstorm to think of new or alternative ways of finding a solution. Think win/win.
Reference
Covey, S. R. (1997). The seven habits of highly effective families. New York: Golden Books.
I use this work sheet, plus other activities, media, etc. in the training.
This video is somewhat tedious, but it is about one of my favorite subjects: How organizations change.
Notice that this could also be used in goal setting, decision making, time management, critical and creative thinking. All these skills are utilized in change.
This formula for change also works within families and educational settings.
I think the main focus in change is desire. But of course, there are always those who are resistant and have no desire to change. In this case, apply all the skills, persevere, and work to ensure that slowly a new understanding takes place.
Lead and show by example. Of course, in an work environment, if needed you can eliminate someone extremely resistant to change, but in the home we cannot fire our children or spouses. So we keep working, leading, persevering, teaching, modeling, encouraging...
The synergistic decision making process uses the following format which leads to resolution. First, one must consider the rational, asking the right questions to try to come to the right decision. Then, one must consider the interpersonal, which includes relationships and feelings.
In synergistic decision-making, what follows are three simple and basic premises, and yet if deleted, the process may be flawed. The first step is to analyze the situation, sorting out facts from assumptions and then challenging any notions that may be incorrect.
The second step, is to form a set of objectives. The simple questions, "What is our objective?" or "What am I to accomplish from this?" always need to be asked to help one define one’s goals.
The third step of synergistic decision-making is to check for alternative courses of action. This many times is simply a list of pros and cons, brainstorming, or creative thinking sessions. (Covey, 1997)
This is a comical video that gives a view on decision making:
ACCEPTING CRITICISM
Watch this video.
What was your initial reaction to Simon interrupting the singer?
Why did Simon do that? What was his motivation for doing so?
Who is Simon Cowell and what is his background? What is Simon known for in his trade?
Why did the boy choose the first song? Was it the best showcase for his talent?
Wikipedia states:
He is also known for combining activities in the television and music industries, having promoted singles and records for various artists, including television personalities.
In 2010, the British magazine New Statesman listed Cowell at number 41 in a list of "The World's 50 Most Influential Figures 2010".
Is this man a person who could tell whether or not a contestant is singing a song that showcases their voice to the best of their ability?
Of course.
Simon was trying to help Shaheen. His interruption had a purpose and his intent was good.
Notice, too, that Shaheen is humble, i.e. teachable, and takes Simon's advice.
He doesn't run off stage crying because Simon stopped him.
He doesn't pout or act arrogant. "How dare Simon interrupt me or tell me to pick a different song!"
Do we accept criticism?
Are we teachable?
Are we humble?
By the way, Shaheen was asked to perform this same song at Michael Jackson's Memorial Service.
