Deciding what to do after school or university can be challenging given the many educational and career paths available. From degree programs to dual training, gap years, and volunteer work, there are numerous options that require careful consideration. Even after graduation, the variety of further education and internships can quickly become overwhelming.
To reduce decision-making pressure, certain methods can be helpful. Here, we present five effective methods that can support you in your decision-making process:
I. Coin Toss
The coin toss may seem simple at first glance, but it is more than just a game of chance. This method can help you recognize your true feelings about a decision.
Method:
Take a coin and assign each side to one of the options you need to choose between. Toss the coin and note which side lands face up.
Observe your reaction:
More important than the actual result of the toss is your immediate reaction to it. Are you relieved or disappointed? This spontaneous emotional reaction gives you a clue about what you really want.
Thus, the coin toss is less about making the decision based on the outcome and more about revealing your internal preference.
II. The 10/10/10 Model
The 10/10/10 model helps you evaluate decisions based on their temporal impacts.
Method:
With this method, ask yourself three questions:
- How will I feel about this decision in 10 minutes?
- How will I feel about this decision in 10 months?
- How will I feel about this decision in 10 years?
Reflection:
By answering these questions, you gain a broader understanding of the short-term, medium-term, and long-term effects of your decision.
Perspective shift:
This method helps you to consider decisions not just from a current emotional perspective but also from a long-term viewpoint, leading to better and more sustainable decisions.
III. Decision Tree
The decision tree helps you systematically analyze complex decisions.
Method:
Draw a tree with branches representing different options. Each branch further divides into sub-options and possible consequences.
Analysis:
Evaluate the outcomes of each branching based on their pros and cons and how they align with your goals.
Decision:
The decision tree allows you to visually represent how different choices might unfold, enabling you to make an informed choice.
IV. SWOT Analysis
The SWOT analysis is another effective method to evaluate different options and make the best decision.
Method:
List the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats of each option.
Evaluation:
Analyze how well each option aligns with your personal goals and the potential challenges and benefits it presents.
Strategic Decision:
The SWOT analysis helps you make informed decisions by considering both internal and external factors.
V. Scenario Thinking
Scenario thinking allows you to design and evaluate various future scenarios to see how your decisions might play out in different contexts.
Method:
Develop multiple plausible scenarios for the future and consider how each of your options might develop in these scenarios.
Evaluation:
Compare the scenarios and decide which option yields the best results in most cases.
Foresighted Decision:
This method helps you think long-term and consider potential future changes to make a robust decision.
Summary
These five methods—the coin toss, the 10/10/10 model, the decision tree, the SWOT analysis, and scenario thinking—offer different approaches to bring clarity to the decision-making process. They allow you to consider both rational and emotional aspects, enabling you to make an informed choice that aligns with your personal goals and values. By applying these decision-making aids, you can reduce stress and view the career orientation phase as an opportunity for personal growth and development.
What are your experiences or thoughts on these methods?