1.	 Define	the	problem	by writing the problem down on a piece of paper.
2.	 Make	a	list	of your talents, skills, and resources (things and people that may help
 solve the problem).  
3.  Brainstorm.  Use your imagination and creativity to think of possible solutions to
 the problem
4.  List	all	solutions on a piece of paper — numbering solutions from #1 to #whatever.
5.  Get	information  and advice about each solution from those you trust and experts in the field.
6.  Think	about	each	solution  and write down an answer to these quesitons for each solution:
  • Question:  What is the best that could happen with Solution #1?  
  • Question:  What is the worst that could happen with Solution #1?
7.  Evaluate	each	solution	and write down an answer for these questions for each solution:
  • Question:  Will this solution benefit me?
  • Question:  Does this solution fit my values and beliefs?
  • Question:  Will this solution take me closer to my goals in life?
  • Question:  Do I want to spend time doing this solution?
8.	 Make	a	decision	by selecting the solution that is — the best for the problem — and
 best for you.
9.	 Plan	your 	work:
 •  List	detailed	steps	you must take to do the solution.
 •  List	problems	or 	roadblocks that may stand in your way.
 •  List	steps	to	overcome each problem or roadblock.
 •  Plan	a	timeline.	  Set a date to finish each step you must take to do the solution.
 •  Plan	a	reward to give yourself for reaching each step.
10. Work	your 	plan:
  • Keep positive thoughts.
  • Look for opportunities to help you complete each step.
  • Keep seeking advice from those you trust and experts in the field.
  • Take care of yourself.  Eat healthy, exercise, and get enough sleep.  
  • Revise (change and improve) the steps needed when new information give
s light for a better way.
QUICK	CHECK:
1)  a) What do you do to define the problem?  b) Of what 3 things should you make a list?
2)   a) For what should you use your imagination and creativity?  b) Where do you list all solutions?
3)  From whom should you get information and advice?
4)  a) List 2 questions to think about each solution.  b) List 4 questions
 to evaluate each solution.
5)   Select a solution that is the best for what 2 things?
6)   Briefly, write down 5 things you do to Plan Your Work.
7)  a) List 3 ways to take care of yourself.  b) What do you revise?
8)  a) Do you think these steps will help you prepare for college, decide on certificate or degree major for 
you, and figure out how to pay for college?  b) Give a reason for your answer .
9)  a) Which do you think has control over your life — decisions you make, o
r decisions others make for 
you?  b) Give a reason for your answer.	
Decision	Making	—	Steps	to	Success
U.S. Work World
CAREER mini-lesson
College & Career Publishing. Permission to use with usworkworld.com subscription.