How to Make Smarter, Faster Decisions—Even When You’re Under Pressure
As a leader, making quick decisions under pressure is part of the job. Whether you're in healthcare or any high-stakes field, decision-making can feel overwhelming, especially when the clock is ticking, and the data you need just isn’t there.
But here’s a leadership tip that can change your decision-making process: take a 5-minute break before deciding.
I know what you’re thinking: "I don’t have time to take a break!" But trust me—taking just 5 minutes to reset can make a world of difference. Let’s explore why this works and how you can apply it in your day-to-day leadership.
The Science Behind a Quick Decision Buffer
When you’re constantly in “go mode,” your brain can become overloaded. It’s like running too many apps on your phone at once—it slows down, gets glitchy, and may eventually crash. The same thing happens with your decision-making skills.
By stepping back for 5 minutes, you allow your brain to clear mental clutter, calm emotional responses, and gain the space needed to think clearly and strategically.
Studies show that even short breaks can reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and help you make decisions that are more thoughtful and less reactive. So, while it may feel counterintuitive, taking that brief pause allows you to move faster and with greater confidence.
How to Apply This in Your Daily Routine
Personally, I use 5-minute resets during busy, high-pressure days to refocus. Here’s how you can implement this strategy:
Step Away for 5 Minutes: Get up from your desk, stretch, take a walk, or grab a coffee. This quick movement refreshes your mind and helps shift your focus away from the stress.
Practice Mindfulness: Use these 5 minutes for mindfulness. Take deep breaths, calm your mind, and center yourself. You’ll be surprised how much this can clear mental fog and enhance your focus when you’re feeling the weight of a decision.
No Distractions: Avoid emails, phone calls, or other distractions during this reset. Your goal is to give your brain a brief but focused break from external stimuli, allowing it to recharge and return sharper.
Why This Strategy Works
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the volume of decisions you’re making, or if you’re frequently dealing with incomplete data, this 5-minute break could be a game-changer for you. It’s not about slowing down—it’s about making decisions with more clarity and purpose, avoiding knee-jerk reactions that can lead to mistakes.
Take Action for Smarter Decision-Making
Are you ready to make better, faster decisions, even under pressure? Try implementing this 5-minute decision buffer today, and watch how it transforms your leadership effectiveness.
For more insights like this, check out my Cognitive Leadership Guide in the Resource Library. It’s packed with strategies to help you make smarter decisions, even when the data is unclear.
💡 Get your free guide here: Cognitive Leadership Guide