Easy decisions are made all the time. For example, “Should I have pizza or a hamburger for lunch?” or “Should I have milk or orange juice for breakfast?” (Orange juice, of course).

These are very easy decisions we all face, but what about the hard ones?

Luckily hard decisions do not come around very often, but when they can change the rest of your life. Take for example three most common decisions most people face “What college/university should I go to?”, “Should I marry her”, or even/most common “What do I want to be when I grow up?

At this point of my life I can tell you that I have not had to make many hard decisions. Maybe, because I am only 15 years old. But I know that one day I will have to face them.

However, they could be really tough ones. But with this technique and some tips, you can probably make the right decision (even if it is a really hard one) much easier.

Always make a Pros and Cons list

A Pros and Cons list is essential when you have to make a hard decision. Always write your list on paper, because the computer/smartphone and basically the Internet distracts your attention.

The New York Times published a great piece in 2012 about students distracted by technology. In my opinion, two years later it applies to the vast majority of the people.

“There is a widespread belief among teachers that students’ constant use of digital technology is hampering their attention spans and ability to persevere in the face of challenging tasks, according to two surveys of teachers being released on Thursday.” — The New York Times

I think it is unquestionably true, and now it applies to all Internet users. So, write your list on paper instead of on your electronic device, because it will distract your attention, and now you think “Oh, it will not distract my attention! Blah blah blah…”. But the truth is, it will. No matter how hard you try, basically you cannot avoid it. I experienced it during the writing of this piece, too. Sometimes it was really hard to focus on the writing, because of the social media sites and other Internet related things.

So, a Pros and Cons list allows you to arrange your thoughts in an easy organized way. A list with strikethroughs is very incoherent. If you want to rearrange or delete a bullet point from your list, you had better make a new one!

You can also prioritize your pros and cons, it may help you. Match the items on the list with your personal values!

1) The peace is essential

You probably cannot write your list in a noisy place. The best place to write it is at home. You also cannot do it, when your phone is buzzing. Do not check your Twitter or Facebook, while writing the list or thinking on it, because it distracts your attention!

2) Never decide rashly!

If you have time, then think about your possible decision. Also, never make the decision when you are angry!

3) The list is done, when you feel it’s done

Yeah. It sounds weird, I know. But your list is done, when you feel it is done. If you feel something is wrong with it, then of course it is not fully completed yet. Maybe it takes some time to find out what is the matter with it, but it will be worth your time.

4) Listen to others!

You should listen to others… or maybe not. Sorry, it depends! You should listen to the opinions of those who you really trust. It is always good, when you listen to others’ opinions, but YOU are the one who has to make the decision!

How to write a Pros and Cons list?

Well, it is really easy.

List anything that comes to your mind, even it sounds silly at first. Try to prioritize the advantages and disadvantages with your personal values. If it is your personal decision, then try to write it alone. If it is a bigger decision that involves your family or co-workers, then it should be a teamwork.

The Pros and Cons of writing this post: