Chapter 1: The Decision-Making Process

Making decisions can often feel overwhelming.

Let’s reflect on a couple of questions.

How did you arrive at your last choice?

For something simple, like picking a restaurant, it’s usually straightforward, right?

Now consider this: how do you approach more complex decisions?

For instance, purchasing a vehicle involves multiple considerations: budget, preferences, color, type (sedan vs. SUV), and more.

In this article, I’ll explore strategies to gain clarity in your decision-making. As mentioned, this isn’t a simple task; it requires practice to be effective.

The approach I recommend is using writing as a method to organize your thoughts.

I have cultivated the habit of documenting any decision involving an expenditure of $1,000 or more. This practice provides me with a clearer perspective.

Take a moment to sit down with a pen and paper—avoid screens and devices.

If you prefer, using an iPad with a stylus can also work well.

When faced with uncertainty, I write.

A few years ago, I bought two properties. One was essential as my main residence, while the second became a viable investment after I evaluated the pros and cons on paper.

Ultimately, these decisions led to purchasing two apartment units that I later listed on Airbnb.

This venture turned out to be quite profitable, maintaining consistent occupancy throughout the year, despite seasonal fluctuations.

I made the choice to withdraw some funds from my S&P 500 investments to finance a rental property.

While the S&P was appreciating at a rate of 7–10% annually, the property I acquired was priced below market value because the seller was relocating.

After making minor renovations, the property’s value has since doubled, generating a positive monthly cash flow.

I diligently wrote down my thoughts to guide my decision-making process:

• Neighborhood: I sought a rental property in a family-oriented area with a nearby school.
• Property Tax: What are the annual water and land taxes?
• Mortgage Amount: What will the mortgage payments be?
• Insurance Costs: How much will insurance be?
• Time Commitment: How much time will I need to invest weekly?
• Management Options: Can I hire a property manager?
• Financial Feasibility: Do the numbers add up?
• Market Trends: Are property values in the area increasing?

While this approach can be painstaking, the benefits are significant.

Next time you face a decision involving $1,000 or more, take an hour to brainstorm and address these questions.

Writing is a powerful tool that can enhance all areas of our lives, helping us become wiser and more innovative.

When I need to think, I write.

When I want to declutter my mind, I write.

When I encounter challenging tasks, I write.

Writing enables deeper thinking and provides a clear, focused direction after brainstorming sessions.

Mastering the art of writing is one of the most advantageous skills you can develop for personal growth.

Writing manifests in many forms:

• Composing a blog post
• Crafting a newsletter
• Creating a social media update
• Drafting a research paper
• Preparing a thesis
• Writing an application
• Sending an email to your supervisor
• Authoring a novel
• Reviewing a book
• Keeping a journal
• Describing a product
• Scripting a YouTube video
• Planning a podcast
• Proposing a grant
• Documenting memoirs
• Writing an instruction manual
• Issuing a press release
• Formulating a recipe
• Drafting a screenplay
• And much more.

Learn practical strategies for transforming your life through writing in this insightful video.

Chapter 2: Utilizing Writing as a Tool

Writing is not just about crafting words; it’s about transforming your life.

Discover how using this transformative tool can help you achieve your goals and fulfill your desires in life.