No More Quick Decisions

“Shall we book a business trip to Thailand”

“Are you interested in a speaking gig at company X”

“Should we renovate the kitchen”

“Do you think we should fire John Doe”

“How about hiring another sales executive”

Just a few questions others have asked me recently. And you know what Just as I like to take time to think deeply about my challenges, I also take time to think “quick” decisions through. Every time I said yes to a speaking gig, interview, or giving a seminar, I didn’t think about it for long. When things are in the future, we’re more likely to say yes. “That trip is planned for September.

It’s now March. That’s ages from now!” And without thinking about it, you commit to a five-day business trip or family vacation. But when September comes, you’re either in a great professional flow, have other (more important) commitments, or are in the middle of something else.

Now, all of a sudden, that quick yes from ‘ages’ ago is on your mind all the time. “Should I cancel the trip Should I go Should I go for two days only” Why do we make things so complicated while we can easily solve these things by just taking an extra day to THINK That’s all you need.

Just think things through. Know yourself. For instance, I’m currently in a great writing flow. I don’t feel the need to leave my city. I have a set routine every day, and it works very well for me. I feel happy, and I enjoy my life a lot. When I go away for even a weekend, my whole routine can be messed up. And then I need another two weeks to get back to my ‘old’ self.

However, I don’t always have this mind-set. Right now, I’m working on this book, opening a new office, and buying a new apartment. I’m focused on a few important things. But other times, I’m more flexible and actually do like to travel, visit friends, business partners, and live a looser lifestyle.

That’s why I now take more time to make decisions. Instead of following my first thought, I say, “Please give me a day or two to think about it.” That’s all you need.