CONTRAST GOOD DECISION MAKERS FROM POOR ONES AT EACH STEP OF THE SIX-STEP RATIONAL MODEL.
...f. (Robbins, Stephen P., p. 132-133) Figure 1. (Lussier, n.d.) Upon examination of the rational decision making model, the biggest difference between good decision makers (GDM) and bad decision makers (BDM) is how they define the problem, how they set objectives and criteria, whether they exhaust all possible alternatives and have carefully thought about the consequences of each, and whether they choose the best alternative based on sound judgment (Manikandan, S., 2004). The table included in this analysis (Table 1) is a step-by-step approach utilizing the six-step rational decision making model. The table compares GDM versus BDM. In most cases BDM exercise bad decision-making strategy and do not think through their decisions. Rather than utilizing their heads and their hearts, BDM go with half-made decisions that often lead to regret and unhappiness. GDM understand that defining the problem is the most important part of establishing the framework of the decision making model. Aristotle even emphasized that the archer is more likely to hit the target if they are aware of what they are aiming at. (Arsham, Hossein, n.d.) Once the definition has been established, GDM rely on three character traits (i.e., integrity, intuition, and insight) and try to understand their own biases when making good decisions. GDM exercise patience, careful thought, and combine rational analysis with intuition when making good decisions. (Robbins, Stephen P., 2003 and Total Efficiency, n.d.) Most of the time GDM make decisions that are consistent with their values (those things that are important to them [e.g., economic, personal, or social]) and relevant to the decision to be made. On the other hand, BDM may not trade-off between values like GDM (how much they are willing to sacrifice), and pick an alternative consistent with their values neglecting the entire outcome of their action. Anyone can avoid making a bad decision and they do not have to be an excellent problem solver to be a good decision maker. More importantly there isn’t one specific secret in making good sound decisions. Making healthy good decisions requires discipline, seeking Godly counsel, exercising prudence, remaining objective, and utilizing prayer. Proverbs 19:2 states “It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way.” The good news is that making decisions does not necessarily have to be made alone. Utilizing teams, mentors, wise counsel and/or predictive technology can ultimately enhance the decision making process and alleviate the stresses normally one undergoes alone. (Biafore, Steve, 1999) Next time faced with an extremely large list of problems, try dividing them up and conquering them one at a time. TABLE 1. Comparing Good Decision Makers from Bad Decision Makers Utilizing the Six-Step Rational Decision Making Model (Robbins, Stephen P., p. 132-133) Six-Step Rational Good decision makers… Bad decision makers… 1 Define the Problem Carefully thought out the problem looking at it from all angles and classifying or defining it appropriately. GDM may even turn big decisions into a series of little decisions. They soundly May avoid the problem all together, overlook the problem or define the wrong problem. An example is mistaking the problem’s symptoms for the problem itself. BDM may even have decidophobia and refuse to not even tackle the problem or decide haphazardly because of their anxiety. 2 Identify decision criteria Brainstorm and determine what is relevant in making the decision. The GDM brings into account interests, values, and personal preferences. May not bring into account interests, values, and/or personal preferences when determining what is relevant in making the decision. May also limit themselves to only ideas that sound “reasonable.” 3 Weight the criteria Using standards and criteria, prioritize by assigning weights to determine the pros and cons of each criteria. Previous experience may help in weighting. Don’t properly prioritize by weighing the criteria based on importance or they may disproportionately weight each criterion. 4 Generate alternatives Believe that any idea is a good idea. Creatively list alternatives, which may ...