The tough decisions are seldom black and white. Instead they're usually stuck in the gray area. The best choice may be unclear, or if it is, it's hard to take action. Sometimes, it seems that no matter what choice you make, you'll be letting someone down. How can you be sure you're making the best decision?
The basic process of making a decision involves six steps:
  1. Identify the problem.
  2. List the possible solutions/choices.
  3. List the consequences/weigh the possible outcomes.
  4. Consider your values.
  5. Make a decision and take action.
  6. Evaluate the effectiveness of your decision.
Here are some tips to help with #4. Consider your values. Ask yourself three questions:
  1. How will my decision affect other people?
  2. What would my role model do?
  3. What would the people I care about think of my choice?
Next, see if your choice follows each of the Six Pillars of Charactersm, from Pursuing Victory with Honorsm. Ask yourself:
  1. Is it trustworthy?
  2. Is it respectful?
  3. Is it responsible?
  4. Is it fair?
  5. Is it caring?
  6. Does it show good citizenship?
For more information about decision making, check out The JourneyLeaving ThatsDope.orgPDF (3.0 MB - 28 pages).