How can I improve my decisiveness? and- I am not talking about any decision trees or prob-weighted models.?

Question: I am an engineer who has used those a lot already in decisions for business. What I am looking for is improving my ability to make quick judgements in personal decisions - about career choices, or even small personal things like going out to which event with which friends, etc. I am not a naturally judgemental person, and I tend to take time to form insights. This usually ends up delaying me. Any good books or tools you can recommend would be much appreciated. Thanks to all answerers.

Answers:
You may think this is crazy, but it works for me.

I use a method which I call "the three minute rule". I established this rule at my job, now my boss even uses it. I work with computers, and when asked a question, I like to assess all aspects before I answer. Some one will call and ask me something technical and I'll reply "I'm invoking the three minute rule, let me get back to you". Sometimes it's a minute, sometimes it's 10 minutes, but it buys me the time to think and not make a snap decision.

It works in other situations also, as it's a spin off of the old "let me check my calendar' and I'll get back to you."

I have never had anyone get angry when I use this method. It shows them that I honestly want to give them an answer, but not until I have an informed and carefully thought out reply.

As far as more complicated decisions, like career choices or major life-changing choices, I am an advocate of the old Pro vs. Con list. I write them down, cross off the more trivial aspects, and concentrate on what is left. Simple, but effective.

Try it. Buying yourself some time, even just a few minutes, can help in your decision making.

Other Answers:
If we give you some options, will you really be able to decide on one?

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A decisive engineer that's like jumbo shrimp, little bit of a contradiction..

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