How to Make Better Decisions Faster: A Life-Changing Method from My Father

Life often throws us into situations where we feel confused, isolated or powerless. These emotions can be overwhelming, making it difficult to see a way forward. My father experienced such a time when his wife, my mother, Virginia, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Unsure of what to do, he devised a method that helped him navigate through this challenging period. This method involves categorizing problems and tasks into three distinct "buckets," providing a framework for making the right decisions and maintaining control. Here’s how it works:

The Three Buckets Method:

Bucket 1: Things Completely in Your Control

This bucket contains tasks and issues that you have complete control over—things you can take immediate action on. For my dad, this meant fulfilling Virginia's wish to stay at home rather than go into a care facility. Before she got sick, she told him she never wanted to go into a home. He took this to heart and ensured she received the best care possible within the comfort and familiarity of their own home.

Bucket 2: The Mixture – Things You Can Partially Control or Change

This bucket is for issues you can influence but not entirely control. It's a mix of things you can sometimes do something about and things you might not be able to affect fully. For my dad, this meant bringing in nurses and caregivers he believed would do a good job. However, if Virginia didn’t connect well with them, it wasn’t a good fit, and he had to decide what changes to make to keep her happy and healthy. Deciding whether to move items from this bucket to Bucket 1 or Bucket 3 requires careful consideration. This process helps in determining what actions are possible and what needs to be let go.

Bucket 3: Things You Can’t Control at All

This bucket is for things completely out of your control. For my dad, this was the disease itself. Recognizing and accepting that some situations, like Alzheimer's, cannot be influenced no matter what you do allows you to put them into perspective. It’s not about giving up, but understanding that there are limits to what you can control.

Applying the Method:

1. In the Midst of Turmoil and Disagreement: Identify what you can do and what you can’t. Focus on actions within your control and put other issues into Bucket 3.

2. Filling Your Mind with What You Can Do: Concentrate on tasks in Bucket 1. This focus helps you feel productive and empowered.

3. Gaining Self-Confidence & Psychological Freedom: The clearer you become about what belongs in each bucket, the more confident you’ll feel. This clarity provides confidence and the confidence provides psychological freedom and a sense of control over your life.

4. Moving and Making Decisions Faster: By categorizing your thoughts and tasks, you can make decisions more quickly and efficiently. This process helps you maintain control over yourself, which is essential for handling any situation.

The Three Buckets Method can help you navigate challenging situations with confidence and clarity. Start applying this simple yet powerful approach to your everyday life, and experience the freedom that comes from focusing on what you can control.

Take Control of Your Decisions Today

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