In this episode, we tackle the challenge of decision-making under pressure – a common scenario for leaders at all levels. We explore why making decisions can feel so difficult when you're facing time constraints, stakeholder expectations, and limited information. Join us as we share practical frameworks and strategies to help you make better decisions even when the pressure is on.

Key points from this episode

• Why pressure hijacks our logical thinking and makes decisions harder
• The critical difference between reacting versus responding to urgent situations
• How to use the 70% rule to avoid decision paralysis and overthinking
• The reversible vs. irreversible decision framework for managing risk
• Ways to build credibility through your decision-making approach

00:00 Introduction to decision-making under pressure

01:00 Why decision-making can feel so hard in leadership roles

02:29 The brain freeze that happens when everyone's looking to you for answers

04:04 Recognising when you need to pause before deciding

06:00 Preparing your decision-making approach in advance

07:48 Using guiding principles to make better decisions

09:47 Avoiding overthinking when faced with complex decisions

11:00 The 70% rule for gathering information

12:42 Reversible versus irreversible decisions framework

15:50 Taking smaller steps when facing big decisions

17:58 Handling pressure from above and external stakeholders

20:21 Clarifying the problem you're trying to solve

24:16 Building confidence in your decision-making abilities

27:00 Three practical strategies to implement immediately

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