Recently I have been taking part in a course with the fundamental objective to make better decisions.  One of the assignments was to develop a guide or outline that I could use when making decisions.  This is what I came up with. Let me know your thoughts and any guidelines you use when making wise decisions.
​ 
A Guide - How to make wise decisions

1. CLARIFICATION - What is the decision concerning? Define it. Identify key issues. Ask questions.
2. OBJECTIVE - What is the objective/outcome/goal? Aim for optimal judgement taking into account all viewpoints. Be motivated by compassion and guided by knowledge.
3. TIMEFRAME - Decide on timeframe needed (does a decision need to be made now, if not, when?)
4. EVALUATE – advantages and disadvantages of all options/outcomes/goals using integrity and authenticity.  Go beyond self-interests and ego, using higher consciousness to look at the bigger picture.
5. FEELINGS - Check in with yourself – how do you ‘feel’ about it, sense it in your body (your gut, your heart)
6. CONSULTATION - seek the viewpoints and effects on all parties involved, that includes your own truth too!
7. FACTUAL – Base your decisions on fact not emotions, this takes courage
8. RELAX - Get calm, meditate, relax on it (wise decisions are made in a calm clear state not a chaotic one)
9. ACTION - Take action (consultation - seek further knowledge and understanding, ask for help if needed, seek good counsel)
10. BE TRUE - Be true to you no matter the expectations of others (use discernment based on your values, morals, ethics, beliefs, ideals, logic)
11. ACCOUNTABILITY - Be accountable, stand by your choices face the consequences
12. REFLECT - evaluate, learn and grow (learn from your mistakes and forgive yourself, build on your successes and share them with others as appropriate with a resolve to help)