The Paradox of a Decision and Its Outcome

A good decision doesn’t always lead to a good outcome. The paradox – and this is the killer – is an unwise decision doesn’t always end up with a bad outcome either.

This reality blinds us.

It creates the impression we don’t have any control. Outcomes are random, influenced by fate, lady luck, and whatever else is in the air. Often, we negate what we can control as well, making choices without consideration. When outcomes go against us, we blame others.

We absolve ourselves of responsibility.

Understanding the paradox of a decision and its outcome is the biggest difference between those who succeed in life – and those who don’t.

It begins with an understanding of what you can control – and what you can’t. You can control the questions you ask; you can control the way you consider your options; you can control your assessment of the information you have. You can control the choice you make.

You can’t control others; you can’t control mother nature; you can’t control chance. You can’t control the outcome.

Knowing this, accepting this, and remembering this will empower your decision-making. It will empower you as accept you can be deliberate in your actions and choices. Your self-awareness will increase as you take control of the things you can control – rather than leaving them to chance. Your quality of judgements will improve.

Your outcomes might not get any better, but the responsibility will be with you. This is the true paradox of a decision and its outcome.