How to create a list of pros and cons
To help you decide what to do
So what?
Have you heard of the “analysis paralysis”? Synonymous with overthinking and also known as paralysis by analysis originates from Aesop’s fable (arguably) and is when we overanalyse and overthink. This in turn paralyses us from thinking of a solution and taking a course of action. Writing out the pros and cons of any decision points in your life to weigh them up is one of an effective way of tackling this. Specifically, a list of pros and cons allow you to:
- Understand your situation and/or decide you’re making;
- Speed up your decision-making process; and
- Mitigate the risk of having analysis paralysis.
The “T”
Grab a piece of blank sheet of paper and write a giant “T” on it with “Pros” on the left side and “Cons” on the right side. And write whatever topic you’re creating the list for on the top of the page.
“Pros”
I always start with the pros (i.e. positive aspects) of what my list is about. It just feels natural to me, going from left to right. If you prefer to start with the cons, feel free to skip to the next step and come back to this. Make a list of the positive aspects of deciding to go ahead with your topic of choice and taking the necessary course of action by asking the following questions:
- How will this contribute to your life;
- Will it positively impact you and those around you and if so, how;
- What are the benefits that you would get out; and
- Are there specific advantages of this decision?
“Cons”
The right side of your list will comprise of why the topic at hand is about why it’s not in your best interest to take the course of action. Make a list of these reasons by asking the following questions:
- Are there risks that are associated;
- How will you be challenged;
- Do you have to give up anything;
- What is the time, financial and other commitments that are required; and
- How will this decision impede your life?
Decision
The simplest way to decide whether to take action or not is to write down the number of pros and cons and go with whichever column has the higher number (i.e. if “pros” column > “cons” column, then take action). Another way is to weigh each pros and cons from 1 to 10 and total the score to determine whether to go ahead or not.
My experience
Whilst I don’t always create a list of pros and cons on a piece of paper, I constantly do this in my head. My better half would say that I’m overanalysing and overthinking by doing this which, she would argue, would result in “analysis paralysis”. However, doing this lets me come to a point where I can make a decision rather than being stuck.
What now?
- Are you naturally indecisive?
- Next time you’re stuck on a decision point, grab a piece of blank sheet of paper and create a list to get out of the ditch.