MINDSETDays to result

Choose

Make a decision between alternatives

Problem it solves

limiting beliefs

Best for

Individuals and teams looking to make a decision between alternatives

Not ideal for

Those who are unsure of their goals or lack clear direction

Overview

Why this framework exists

Choosing involves making a decision between alternatives. This requires identifying the key factors and criteria that will influence the decision, and developing a plan to evaluate the alternatives. The key to successful choosing is to stay focused, evaluate the alternatives objectively, and make a decision based on the criteria.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Clear goals are essential for effective decision-making
  2. Identifying key factors and criteria is crucial for success
  3. Developing a plan to evaluate alternatives is key to making a decision

Steps

3 steps
  1. Define the Goal
    Clearly define the goal and identify the key objectives. This involves understanding what needs to be achieved and what the desired outcome is.
    Pro tipMake sure the goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART)
    WarningAvoid vague or poorly defined goals that can lead to confusion and inefficiency
  2. Identify Alternatives
    Identify the alternatives and evaluate them based on the criteria. This involves identifying the key factors and criteria that will influence the decision.
    Pro tipUse a decision matrix to evaluate the alternatives and identify the most suitable option
    WarningAvoid evaluating alternatives based on personal biases or emotions
  3. Make a Decision
    Make a decision based on the evaluation of the alternatives. This involves selecting the most suitable option and developing a plan to implement it.
    Pro tipUse a decision-making framework to guide the decision-making process
    WarningAvoid making a decision based on incomplete or inaccurate information

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Career Choice

An individual is looking to choose a career path and is evaluating different alternatives. They use the choose framework to define the goal, identify alternatives, and evaluate them based on the criteria. They use a decision matrix to evaluate the alternatives and identify the most suitable option.

OutcomeThe individual is able to make an informed decision and choose a career path that aligns with their goals and values.
Edward de Bono, Teach Yourself To Think

Common mistakes

3 traps
Lack of Clear Goals
Failing to clearly define the goal and objectives can lead to confusion and inefficiency. This can result in wasted time and resources, and a lack of progress towards the desired outcome.
Inadequate Evaluation
Failing to evaluate the alternatives objectively can lead to a poor decision. This can result in frustration and a lack of motivation, and can ultimately lead to failure to achieve the goal.
Poor Decision-Making
Failing to make a decision based on the evaluation of the alternatives can lead to a lack of progress towards the goal. This can result in missed deadlines and a lack of achievement, and can ultimately lead to disappointment and frustration.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of choosing is rooted in the idea of decision-making. Edward de Bono's work on thinking and problem-solving emphasizes the importance of clear goals and effective decision-making in achieving success. By providing a framework for choosing, individuals and teams can develop the skills and strategies needed to make informed decisions.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
Teach Yourself To Think
Edward de Bono · 2020
Open source →

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