decide once
Identify areas where you can simplify decision-making to free up your mental energy and focus on strategic thinking and what truly matters.
The transition to single life after my divorce was overwhelming. When I was ready to date again, online dating introduced numerous decisions: Which app? Swipe left or right? Wait or initiate the first message? When and where to meet? And of course, what to wear?
Inspired by Steve Jobs’ iconic black turtleneck, blue jeans, and New Balance sneakers, I adopted a “dating uniform” to simplify one aspect of the process. Just as Jobs was known for his signature attire, I chose one outfit that made me feel comfortable for every single first date.
This small change made me more willing to try online dating and less nervous before a date. The outcome? I eventually met my now husband while wearing that same first-date outfit. I’m not claiming the "decide once" philosophy is a surefire way to find love, but I’m convinced cutting down on small decisions can make more time for the big ones. And I'm not just talking about romantic decisions.
Consider these applications in your business:
Client onboarding. Establish a consistent process, including necessary forms and checklists, to welcome clients efficiently.
Hiring processes. Develop a standardized approach with pre-screening questionnaires, interview templates, and evaluation criteria to streamline recruitment.
Meeting schedules and formats. Set recurring times and standardized formats for team check-ins, project updates, and agendas.
Document templates. Create formats, incorporating brand guidelines, for common communications such as customer inquiries and announcements.
Standard operating procedures (SOPs). Develop SOPs for routine tasks such as processing orders or handling customer complaints.
The "decide once" philosophy conserves mental energy for crucial tasks such as learning, strategizing, and building connections. Of course, not every decision can be made once and forgotten. “Decide once” means periodically revisiting and adjusting as life evolves.
Reflecting on my fifth wedding anniversary, I’m grateful for the energy saved during those initial “swiping” days.
What decisions in your life could benefit from the “decide once” approach? Identify where you can simplify decision-making for increased mental clarity and strategic focus. Start small, implement consistent processes, and periodically review choices for their ongoing usefulness.
the path not taken
The Apple series Dark Matter follows physicist Jason Dessen, who is abducted and transported to an alternate reality. While making quick decisions for routine tasks is efficient, the show compellingly contrasts this with the profound consequences of life-altering choices. It examines the paths not taken and how our existence is a sum of our choices.
