A Great Answer: “I’ll Get Back To You.”

Far too many decisions are made without adequate thinking, consideration and advice from others, or even simply time to ponder. “Sleeping on it” is always a good thing.

I believe its an ego control thing. When confronted with the requirement to make a decision, far too many small business owners feel pressured into making snap decisions, on the spot, as if they would look inept if they did not make an immediate decision. Being unable to decide seems like a powerless position. I suggest the opposite is true. In fact, I further believe that people will respect you more if you reject instant answers and take the time to consider all aspects and possibilities.

Acknowledging that a decision is important and that you therefore want some time to consider it and your options is very powerful and gains respect when offered as a reason to not make a snap decision. It acknowledges the importance of the decision and further demonstrates respect for the process of determining the best answer. This is powerful and appropriate. Instant gratification is not the objective. Demonstrating how capable you are in making decisions on the spot is not as powerful as you may think and often leads to mistakes.

I believe in, and practice, the tried and true option of “sleeping on it”. Frequently, I will postpone a decision and simply sleep on it, not even directly thinking about it. Somehow in the morning, upon new reflection, I have either confirmed in my mind the appropriateness of the decision I was leaning towards or it does not feel right and I adjust or reject it. All that happens while I sleep on it. The next day it usually all seems much clearer and better decisions are made. It helps me remove emotion from decision-making and replace it with analysis and input from others as well as my own reflection.

This is powerful. Instant answers prove little and are less effective over the long haul. You will make more mistakes. Slow down, think, reflect and then conclude.