In the class this month, we spoke all about decision-making. This article will help you review and apply key concepts, vocabulary, and phrases for making choices in your personal and professional life. We'll also revisit the lively discussions from our class, covering everything from personal anecdotes to the influence of technology and culture on our decisions.
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Understanding the Vocabulary of Choice
Our discussion began with key vocabulary to describe the decision-making process.
To weigh up options: This means to carefully consider different alternatives. For instance, when Sarah was faced with two job offers, she had to
weigh up the pros and cons of each.
To deliberate: This is to think carefully about something before making a decision. A person who takes a long time to deliberate may create a list of pros and cons before making a final choice.
Pros and cons: These are the positive and negative factors to consider when making a decision.
Intuition: This refers to a feeling that guides you without conscious reasoning. As one of our participants noted, a "gut feeling" is often the ultimate decision-maker.
Bias: This is an unfair preference for or against something. While a bias can be positive, it's still an unfair preference that can be detrimental to others. It's essential to be aware of your biases and consider other perspectives.
Precedent: This is a tendency to make choices based on what happened in similar past situations.
Phrasing Your Decisions 🗣️
We also reviewed common phrases used at different stages of decision-making.
Expressing Uncertainty
"I'm torn between A and B.": This means you're unable to choose between two options, especially when both have positive and negative aspects.
"I'm on the fence about this.": You are undecided and have not committed to one side or the other.
"I'm having second thoughts about my choice.": This expresses a feeling of doubt after you've made a decision.
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