📺 Stream EntrepreneurTV for Free 📺

Where to Find the Confidence to Make the Challenging Decision When making a decision, get to the motivation first to enhance chances of success.

By Jeff Shore

entrepreneur daily

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Shutterstock

We all find ourselves in places where an important decision -- business or personal -- can have huge consequences. In such situations we all desire one thing -- confidence. Easier said than done, right?

The key to making the best decision is to understand your own motivation. If I am not clear on the why of an issue, the how is likely flawed. Here's the problem: the first "why" doesn't get you where you need to go. I find that the first why is far too simple -- too close to the surface.

Related: 10 Life Hacks From a Millennial Millionaire

Here's how you hack that decision-making process. Ask why and answer. Then say, "So that…" and complete the sentence. Now add, "So that…"

Do that until you are five layers deep. Now you're connected with your core.

Here's an example: Should I start recording video blogs?

  1. Why? To engage with people.
  2. So that…it paves the way for a two-way conversation.
  3. So that…my audience feels more connected.
  4. So that…my audience feels open to being honest and vulnerable.
  5. So that…I can challenge people to reach their true potential.

Boom! That's it.

Related: 7 Life Hacks to Be Productive Instead of Just Busy

Here's another example: Should I write a book?

  1. Why? Because I've always wanted to.
  2. So that…I can get my story out.
  3. So that…I can share my message to more people.
  4. So that…I can -- ah, forget it. I'm not that passionate about it.

That's a victory right there. It doesn't mean don't write a book. It means gain clarity on the motivation before writing the book.

Related: The Productivity and Life Hack That Almost Always Works

You are the sum of your decisions. So get to the motivation first and you will greatly enhance your success in every decision you make.

Jeff Shore

Entrepreneur, Sales Expert and Author; Founder of Shore Consulting

Jeff Shore, of Shore Consulting, is a sought-after sales expert, speaker, author and consultant whose latest book, Be Bold and Win the Sale: Get Out of Your Comfort Zone and Boost Your Performance, was published by McGraw-Hill Professional in January 2014.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Side Hustle

He Started a Luxury Side Hustle at Age 13 — Now the Business Earns More Than $10 Million a Year: 'People Want to Help You When You're Young'

Michael Morgan, now the owner of Iconic Watch Company, always had a passion for "old things" — and he turned it into a lucrative venture.

Thought Leaders

It's the End of the Entrepreneurial Era As We Know It

With the rise of advanced technologies and AI, are we losing all sense of the independent business person and entrepreneur?

Business Ideas

63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

Business Plans

From Camera-Shy to Camera-Ready — Here's What to Consider Before You Go on Camera

Are you ready to be on camera? Here are a few things to consider.