Small Decisions With Big Effect: Choosing to Choose

Choosing to Make Choices: The Battle of Decisiveness

Indecisiveness is often misunderstood. While it’s easy to view hesitation as a flaw, for many, it’s a reflection of the care they place on the outcomes of their decisions—for themselves, but also for others. Yes, the truth is that people don’t always delay because they’re unsure, but because they believe even small choices can have significant impacts on their lives or others’. Understanding why some struggle with indecision—and why others are too quick to choose—sheds light on the complex relationship between personality, decision-making, and consequences. As always, the Authentic Behavior Contrast is a great solution for those wanting an edge on understanding their own behaviors and also the tendencies of others.

Forward vs. Reserved: Two Paths to Decision-Making

Forward Types: Too Decisive for Their Own Good?

Thriving on accomplishment or activity, forward types don’t experience the much hesitation. In fact, their challenge is oftentimes being too decisive. They are the ones who, in their seemingly limitless determination to move ahead, “are a ship leaving port without some passengers.” In other words, they make decisions quickly and confidently, sometimes to the point of overlooking other perspectives. Their drive for action and results pushes them ahead, but at times, they can miss out on key details or input that might ultimately slow their progress. The adage: two steps forward, one step back applies here.

Reserved Types: When Hesitation Holds Meaning

For the reserved, indecision is often a sign of thoughtful consideration. They value taking the time to ensure that every angle has been explored, especially when their decision may affect others. This cautious approach can be seen as indecision from the outside, but for them, it’s a deliberate choice (an obligation in some regards) to weigh the consequences fully. Reserved types hesitate not fully out of fear or indecision but out of deep care for potential outcomes. For them, the indecisiveness stems from trying to balance internal values with external consequences. Their thought process is less about making the ‘right’ decision quickly and more about ensuring the choice is as considerate and thoughtful as possible.

The Practical vs. Interpersonal Approach to Decisions

Practical Types: Finding the Most Efficient Path

Practical types approach decision-making with logic and efficiency in mind. Their focus is on results and outcomes that can be measured. When they hesitate, it’s often because they are looking for the most functional solution. Indecisiveness for practical types comes from wanting the ‘best’ answer—the one that will produce the clearest, most productive outcome. They’re less concerned about how the decision impacts others emotionally and more focused on its practical implications. **Note that some practical types are more forward (main ABContrast type Autocratic), and other Practical types are more reserved (main ABContrast type Static). These combinations will result in differing behaviors**

Interpersonal Types: Weighing the Emotional Impact

Interpersonal types, on the other hand, navigate decisions through a different lens. Their concern lies in how their choices will affect relationships and the emotional well-being of those around them. Their decision making (or seeming lack thereof) isn’t about efficiency—it’s about ensuring their decisions foster harmony and connection. The emotional stakes are higher, which makes their every decision subject to their interpretation of the social dynamics around them. **Note that some Interpersonal types are more forward (main ABContrast type Dynamic), and other Interpersonal types are more reserved (main ABContrast type Empathic). These combinations will result in differing behaviors**

Finding Balance in Decision-Making