Did your process of making a decision save you from having to take a decision?

Your Friday Trigger Question (tq108)

Feb 17

Did you know that one of a manager's key functions is to make decisions? And did you know that another key management function is to take decisions?

That's right. If you are a manager, you must know how to make decisions and how to take decisions.

Actually, these skills apply to all of us, so pay attention.

Making a decision is the entire process of reaching a point where you are ready and able to take the decision. The problem comes in when you use the making as an excuse for not taking. (Yes, it's another form of that basic human skill called procrastination.)

But let me not be too harsh, because there seems to be a subliminal reason for this delay. It's based on our preferred word-use. Can you guess which phrase is more popular when talking about decision-making? Drat. I've given you a clue.

Yes, it's making a decision. Apparently using the phrase taking a decision has fallen out of favor. (Don't take my word for it. Research it.)

And why is that? I think it's because taking a decision carries more risk than making a decision. When you take something, it’s yours. You own it.

The buck must stop somewhere. But rather make it stop not here.