Clarity is a Power Tool in Decision-Making

In the journey to achievement, the decisions we make are stepping stones that pave the way to our goals. Each choice, whether big or small, influences our trajectory and determines whether we move closer to or further from our desired outcomes. Understanding the role of decision-making in achieving goals is crucial for anyone looking to transform aspirations into reality.

Over time I’ve learned that a key step in effective decision-making is having clear, well-defined goals, requirements, or targets to attain. Vague aspirations lead to indecisiveness, while specifics provide a roadmap for making informed choices. For instance, wanting to “get fit” is less actionable than aiming to “run 2 miles in under 30 minutes by December.” Lack of clarity can be frustrating for others involved in executing the decision or responding in some way.

For instance, there’s nothing more agitating when picking up restaurant food for people than asking them what they want to eat or to order for them but then someone says “I don’t know” or ”I don’t care what you get.” Picture this occasional thought in my head… ‘do they really want me to decide; in this case should I figure that anything will do and even air may be an option.’ Then I could tell the person ‘I tried to order air at the restaurant, but it wasn’t on the menu so here’s a cup of nothing.’

I know this has a measure of sarcasm attached but most menus stay the same for a long time and most peolple know what food they like. You can also tell that I do not understand how people could be okay letting others choose for them by not knowing what they want. Yet, this happens. With the food problem or anything else for that matter, others may be relying on clarity about what you want them to give you. Not being precise about your desires hinders the receipt of them. With lack of clarity progress becomes inefficient.

I recall that sometimes when I prayed vague prayers, responses were so slow or I couldn’t necessarily tie answers to certain things based on the specific need or desire I was really looking for. I remember a time when I was desiring a different job to expand and diversify my professional acumen. I was praying for a change but for awhile I was definitely just shooting words like darts at a board while being blindfolded. I knew where I wanted to be and sort of do for the job but it was still broader than it should have been and imprecise. I needed to really define the picture of what I imagined. Then one day I was at church and the Pastor made a statement about prayer and asking for ‘exactly’ what you want. In that moment it dawned on me that I had not actually done that on prior occasions and this time it had to be different, so I prayed with absolute clarity. The very next day I received a call which led to me doing the job that aligned with what I wanted to be doing within a few months. Those events occurred about seven years ago. To Yahweh be praised!

When you know exactly what you want to achieve, you can evaluate your options based on how well they support your goal. Being unclear can lead to anything happening that you may or may not want. Clear goals serve as a compass, guiding decisions and ensuring they align with our ultimate objectives. Also, when others have the ability to make decisions on your behalf, clarity assists them with how to do so.

From choices to results, decision-making is a critical component in the pursuit of goals. By setting clear objectives, understanding the factors that influence decisions, and employing effective strategies, you can enhance your decision-making skills and increase your likelihood of success. Remember, every decision is a step on the path to achievement. Make each one count. Know within yourself what you want the end goal to be or how it should look. Then decisions become a bit more feasible in that you will now understand what aligns with the results and outcomes you expect.

Post 57852024-4Q1101