Handcrafted Solutions

How do I know what is best for me? There may be many good answers but a great solution fulfills your objectives and moves you toward your goals.

We provide a process you may find helpful for reaching better decisions. We help you clarify your needs and objectives. Following this procedure improves communication and allows everyone to get on the same page. It helps overcome the noise, hype and emotions that surround difficult decisions.

Step One: Identify the issues

1. Begin by praying for clear thinking, to be able to discern God's timing and direction, and to have the ability to make good choices. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him."
2. Consider Scripture. Are there Biblical principles and insights that should drive your thoughts about what you are trying to accomplish and what success would look like?
3. Write down what you are trying to accomplish. You want to be sure the issue is accurately stated. It is very frustrating when you reach a great answer to the wrong question.

Step Two: Define success

1. Write down your objectives. List your goals for the outcome of this decision.
2. Prioritize your goals. Not every objective will be of equal importance to you. Some will be absolute "must haves." Others will vary in importance; we refer to these as "like to haves." An option is dropped from consideration if it fails to have all the "must haves." "Like to haves" are negotiable.

Step Three: Now consider your choices

1. List all possible choices. Think creatively. Consider the question, "What else might work?" Make sure you include all the possibilities you can think of. This is a good time to seek the insight of trusted counselors to help you identify additional options. You want everything on the table, because your decision can be no better than your best alternative.
2. Analyze your choices. Fundamental principle: Every decision is made to accomplish certain objectives, not just to arrive at a pre-determined alternative. Compare your options to your goals. A choice is good only if it meets your objectives.
3. Which choice best meets your objectives and priorities?

Customizing solutions specific to your goals and objectives requires taking the time necessary to identify the issues you're facing, evaluating your alternatives, and then recommending appropriate tools that are expected to work best in your circumstances.