Any big decision made should be made with due deliberation. A decision journal is a tool you can use to help make better decisions.
Important aspects of a Decision Journal
- Record Decisions
Recording how you came to a decision and the variables involved. - Alternatives
Alternatives to your decision (and why they weren't chosen). - Make Predictions
Make predictions about how this decision might turn out. - Review Outcomes
Create a feedback loop and review your past decisions. - Missed Opportunities
Identify gaps and where you can improve future decisions.
Decision Journal
Created At: <date>
Decided At: <date>
Reviewed At: <date>
Mood:
Record your mode and think through any biases it may be creating. Common moods can be things like:
- Tired
- Confident
- Angry
- Resigned
- Frustrated
- Anxious
- Lost / Confused
Problem / Context :
As clearly as possible provide context on the decision that you are making. This should be a single sentence.
Factors:
Define the set of variables that need to be considered while making a decision. This can be things like relationships, dates, money, risks, rewards.
Not all factors are equal so identify the ones most important in determining your desired outcome.
Decision:
Articulate what your decision is.
Reversibility?
If you made a bad decision, is it reversible? If possible come up with a plan/process to reverse it.
Alternatives:
Describe alternatives explored and why they weren't choosen.
Predictions:
Make predictions about future outcomes or externalities that will come from this decision.
REVIEW:
Retrospective:
After sufficient time has passed, review the decision. What were the outcomes? Were the predictions accurate?
Opportunities to Improve:
If you could make this decision over again would you do it all the same?
Were there missed Factors that should have been considered?
Did an alternative deserve more consideration?
Did your mood create biases or blind spots?
