Word of the Week is Decision

The Oxford language dictionary defines a decision as a conclusion or resolution reached after consideration or the action or processes of deciding something or resolving a question. We make decisions and decide things every day, all day long. Some of these items revolve around daily maintenance and upkeep. For example, shall I have ice water or tap water, bacon and eggs, bagel and cream cheese, fresh fruit, or a smoothie? What color socks will I put on, will I wear silver or gold jewelry today? Other decisions we make can have life-changing outcomes financial investment, starting a business, or relying on somebody else to do something for us. The decision-making process for protecting our family and loved ones from emergencies and disasters is much more demanding. Our decision-making will generally fall into one or more of these five categories. Who – What – When – Where – Why – How As in any project, before deciding on what will happen, we first must gather information. Then, based on that information, we will follow a sequence of five events that define the decision-making process. 1. Analyze the outcome 2. Analyze the situation and develop your courses of action (COA’s) 3. Analyze your courses of action 4. Compare your courses of action 5. Make a decision Source: Army Techniques Publication (ATP) 5 – 19. Risk Management As noted in previous posts, it is best to have more than one course of action. However, please note that each course of action should be distinct so there would be no confusion between them. Once you have decided on a course of action, it is best not to deviate from it. Till next time “Be Safe”