MINDSETDays to result

Best Doable Option (BDO)

Find the Best Option

Problem it solves

complex problems with multiple options

Best for

Those facing complex problems with multiple options

Not ideal for

Those looking for a perfect solution

Overview

Why this framework exists

The Best Doable Option (BDO) is a decision-making strategy that involves finding the best available option, rather than the perfect solution. It involves evaluating the available options and choosing the one that is most practical and achievable.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Evaluate the available options
  2. Choose the most practical and achievable option
  3. Avoid seeking perfection

Steps

2 steps
  1. Evaluate the Options
    Evaluate the available options and their potential outcomes
    Pro tipConsider the pros and cons of each option
    WarningAvoid getting overwhelmed by too many options
  2. Choose the Best Option
    Choose the option that is most practical and achievable
    Pro tipConsider the resources and constraints involved
    WarningAvoid choosing an option that is not feasible

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Dinner Decision

A person uses BDO to decide what to do for dinner, evaluating the available options and choosing the most practical and achievable one

OutcomeThe person makes a decision and enjoys their dinner

Common mistakes

2 traps
Seeking Perfection
Failing to recognize that the perfect solution may not exist
Overanalyzing Options
Getting overwhelmed by too many options and failing to make a decision

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of BDO was introduced by Bill Burnett, who used it to help individuals make decisions in complex situations. The strategy involves evaluating the available options and choosing the one that is most practical and achievable.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
Designing Your Work Life
Bill Burnett · 2020
Open source →

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