Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

When we make decisions, we usually make them based on information that is present at the time. More often than not we make them quickly to get them out of the way. So, let me ask you, how has that worked for you so far?

Every decision we make has an impact, short, medium and/or long-term. The trick is to see your decisions based on these three time frames. Recently, I have had the experience of looking at my decisions based on these time frames. Let's just say, I would have made many of them differently, if I had properly taken these time frames into account. Why? Well, in many instances the decisions that worked best in the short-term, (and in some instance the medium term) did not work out in the long-term (say 7 to 10 year timeline). Now, the question is what, or how, would I have made these decisions differently if I could have assessed them based on these time lines?

As an example: Taking a job for great money, but at a location that is less than optimal, and an environment that I am questioning -
I would have looked at them and asked:

Short-

I can take this position now, the money is great, there are a few negatives with the commute and the environment, but I'm pretty sure I can live with those and get used to them.

Medium-

What if the commute becomes longer, due to construction, or the company moves to a new location, how will this affect my overall commute time, and my mood at the end of the day? What about the issues of the environment, how will they be seen by me after 6 months, 1 year or 2 years. Can I deal with those issues for that period of time and still maintain a level of sanity?

Long-term-

Realistically, I will probably not be there in 6 or 7 years, but the impact that environment will have on my emotional and mental states will color my views dramatically, with regards to any new work environment. The possibility of this having a negative impact on my next move is pretty high. On the other hand it will have given me a perspective on this type of environment that will allow me to bring that knowledge forward, but at what price?

Hopefully, you get the idea. A great book on this is Suzy Welch's 10-10-10. Reading this book has allowed me to see how decisions truly impact us. Is it groundbreaking stuff? Not by any stretch! However, does it give you a formula to make decisions based on how they impact your life (marriage, work, kids, etc)? Very much so! Those are usually the big three types, but there are others and you can use this in any situation.