Last week we talked about techniques to help us manage our mindset when we're making decisions, particularly in relation to our career. I said that we'd build on those ideas in this weeks blog by talking about the practical decision making techniques that can help us to critically assess options and gain confidence we're making the best decision.
Two techniques I'm sharing today:
The Disney Method
In a career context I'd recommend part of it (it's main use is for group idea creation).
Step 1) Brainstorm a range of exciting ideas for your next career step. Dream big. Don't hold back. It's time to be creative and radical.
Pro tip - if you're worried you're not being bold enough, pick a few of your ideas and 10x them so they're even bigger.
Step 2) Put on your pragmatic hat and look through the options to see what you can act on now. Assess which options are easiest or most impactful. Start creating a plan for your next baby step towards that career outcome.
Or you could try this other method:
Force field Analysis
Step 1) Write down your desired outcome (e.g. a new role) in the centre of a page
Step 2) On the left hand side write down all the positive driving forces that are on your side e.g. your skills & experiences, knowing that what you want to do is 'in demand' etc
Step 3) On the right hand side you list all the restraining forces (obstacles) that could hold you back
Step 4) Give each item on both lists a number based on how much impact that force has on the outcome you're trying to create. Where 10 is huge impact and 1 is almost none.
Then assess what you've learned. What are the big forces on your side that you could be leveraging to get that next role? For example, you might know an expert in that field, or you might have a great network for introductions, or maybe you even have the relevant skills.
And what are the big things likely to get in your way? How can you proactively manage and mitigate these?
Between the two exercises you have good dose of creativity and critical assessment to help you make decisions about your career options and next steps. Hit reply and let me know what you've decided.
P.S. It’s useful to have a couple of decision making tools up your sleeve. If you find yourself zig-zagging between options it's time to pick a technique and write down your thought process. Bring on clarity.
P.P.S. There's 2 ways you can currently work with me: 1) a 2 hour breakthrough NLP session (great for dealing with any mind chatter getting in the way of making decisions) or 2) a 4 session coaching programme over 2 months. All phone based. When you're ready, hit reply and we'll agree which approach best serves your goal.