We face choices every day—some small and insignificant, others life-changing. From deciding what to eat for dinner to choosing a career path or ending a relationship, making decisions can be stressful and overwhelming. We’ve all found ourselves thinking, “On one hand… but on the other hand…” as we weigh our options.
But how can you break free from indecision and make choices with clarity and confidence? In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies for evaluating options, managing uncertainty, and making better decisions—whether you’re choosing between two paths or navigating complex life choices.
Why Decision-Making Feels Hard
Before diving into strategies, it helps to understand why decision-making can be so difficult:
- Fear of Regret: We worry about making the “wrong” choice and facing negative consequences.
- Too Many Options: Having multiple possibilities can cause “choice overload,” making us feel paralyzed.
- Uncertainty About the Future: The unknown makes it hard to predict how our choices will play out.
- Emotional Attachment: Personal values, emotions, and biases can cloud logical thinking.
- Desire for Perfection: Perfectionism leads to endlessly seeking the “perfect” option, which may not exist.
The good news is that effective decision-making is a skill you can build with the right mindset and tools.
How to Make Choices: 7 Proven Strategies
Here are seven practical strategies to help you evaluate options, weigh pros and cons, and make decisions confidently—whether you’re making simple daily choices or navigating life’s biggest questions.
1. Weigh the Pros and Cons (The Classic Approach)
The most straightforward way to approach a decision is to list the advantages and disadvantages of each option. This method is particularly helpful for logical, fact-based decisions.
How to Do It:
- Draw two columns: “Pros” on one side and “Cons” on the other.
- Be honest and specific when listing each point.
- Consider how important each factor is—some pros or cons may outweigh others.
Example:
- Choice: Accepting a new job offer.
- Pros: Higher salary, growth potential, exciting projects.
- Cons: Longer commute, less job security, leaving familiar colleagues.
2. Use the 10-10-10 Rule (Think Long-Term)
The 10-10-10 Rule helps you evaluate how a decision will affect you in the short, medium, and long term. It’s useful for gaining perspective and avoiding impulsive or emotionally driven choices.
How to Apply It:
- Ask yourself:
- How will I feel about this decision 10 minutes from now?
- How will I feel 10 months from now?
- How will I feel 10 years from now?
Why It Works:
- This method encourages future-oriented thinking, helping you prioritize long-term benefits over short-term discomfort or temptation.
3. Consider Your Core Values (Follow What Matters)
Your personal values serve as a compass when making difficult decisions. If a choice aligns with your core values, it’s likely the right one for you—even if it’s not the easiest or most comfortable.
How to Apply It:
- Reflect on your core values (e.g., honesty, family, creativity, financial stability).
- Ask yourself: Which option best aligns with what truly matters to me?
Example:
- Choosing between a high-paying job that requires constant travel and a lower-paying job that allows more family time may come down to whether you value financial success or work-life balance more.
4. Visualize Possible Outcomes (Mental Rehearsal)
Visualization can help clarify how you feel about a decision by mentally “living” through its possible outcomes. This technique can tap into your intuition and highlight what truly matters to you.
How to Apply It:
- Close your eyes and imagine yourself having made each choice.
- Picture how your life would change, how you’d feel, and what daily life would look like in each scenario.
- Notice any emotional responses or gut feelings that surface.
5. Use a Decision Matrix (For Complex Choices)
A decision matrix is a more analytical approach for comparing multiple options based on various criteria. This method is ideal for complicated decisions involving several factors.
How to Apply It:
- List your options in rows and important criteria in columns.
- Rate each option on a scale (e.g., 1 to 5) based on how well it meets each criterion.
- Total the scores to determine the best option.
Example:
- Criteria for Choosing a New Apartment: Location, affordability, size, commute time, amenities.
6. Flip a Coin (When Stuck Between Two Good Options)
Surprisingly, flipping a coin isn’t about leaving your decision to chance—it’s about tapping into your intuition. When the coin is in the air, your gut often tells you which outcome you hope it lands on.
How to Use It:
- Assign each side of the coin to one option.
- Flip the coin.
- Notice your immediate emotional reaction—whether it’s relief or disappointment—when you see the result.
7. Accept That No Decision Is Perfect (Choose and Commit)
Sometimes, the biggest obstacle to making a decision is the desire for a perfect outcome. The truth is that every choice comes with uncertainties, risks, and trade-offs. Accepting this can free you from decision paralysis.
Mindset Shift:
- Instead of asking: “What’s the perfect choice?” ask: “What’s the best choice I can make with the information I have?”
- Once you’ve decided, commit fully and avoid second-guessing yourself.
When to Trust Your Gut vs. Use Logic
Decision-making often comes down to balancing intuition and rational thinking. Here’s when to lean on each:
- Trust Your Gut: For personal, emotional, or value-based decisions (e.g., choosing a partner or following a creative passion).
- Use Logic: For fact-based, complex decisions involving multiple criteria (e.g., financial investments, career planning).
Final Thoughts: Mastering the “On One Hand… On the Other” Mindset
Life is full of choices, and decision-making will always involve weighing options, considering consequences, and navigating uncertainty. By using these strategies, you can confidently approach any decision—whether it’s choosing between two good options or making a life-altering change.
Remember, no choice defines your entire life. Even if things don’t turn out as expected, every decision offers an opportunity to learn, grow, and adapt. So, when you find yourself thinking, “On one hand… but on the other…” remember that clarity comes not from having perfect certainty, but from making thoughtful, intentional choices—and trusting yourself along the way.
