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106 End Procrastination Now!

In solving a well-articulated problem, you may have many false
runs in which you test solutions that don’t solve the problem. You
may find solutions that are good enough but not perfect. However,
once you engage the decision-making process, you are likely to
find ways to actualize your capabilities by stretching them.
American diplomat and scientist Ben Franklin stated in his
autobiography that by setting goals and striving to reach them, he
found that he was not perfect, but he was still far better off than
he would have been if he had not undertaken the challenges he
set for himself.

Applying a Rational Decision Process

Problem solving may go into a holding pattern when decision-
making procrastination gets in the way. Table 5.2 compares a deci-
sion breakdown process to a rational decision-making process.
The comparison in the table provides another way to view a Y
decision: as a shift from a decision breakdown process to a rational
process of making decisions based on concrete realities, where you
weigh and balance choices, then act on the best option available at

table 5.2

Decision Breakdown Process Rational Decision-Making Process

Vague, ambiguous, and unclear Clear, concrete, problem statement
problem definition with measurable and attainable
objectives

Reliance on emotion for judgment Reasoned approach that takes posi-
tive values and ethics into account
Self-absorbed focus on avoidance Self-observant focus on actions to
and escape solve the defined problem
Escalating indecisiveness Accelerating problem-solving
actions
Stalling on rendering a decision Coming to a resolution as a natural
extension of the original decision
to act