Resources > Understand the Decision Chain > Follow Through
Decision Chain Element - Follow Through
Click the headings on the left to get a brief explanation on each link in the Decision Chain.
Videos on
Commitment to Follow Through:
Comittment to Follow Through: Make them real
Commitment to follow through means we are set to execute our decision and can do so purposefully. If we are only halfhearted about our commitment, our follow- through is usually less intense and may not achieve the best results.
Committing to follow-through is like pulling an internal switch—after the switch is on, we do whatever it takes to make our decision real. When we shift from considering a decision to being in the state of commitment, we are clear and can proceed without reservation, conscious of potential consequences.
Successful follow-through requires resources such as time, effort, money, or help from others. It also requires being prepared to overcome obstacles.
How to commit to follow through
Ask yourself
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Am I ready to act?
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Will I do this?
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Do I have the necessary means to follow through?
Ask your head
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What could stop me from following through?
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Am I prepared for the consequences and for doing what it takes to carry through on the decision?
Ask your heart
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What fears do I have that prevent me from making my decision real?
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Have I accepted the potential consequences that go along with acting/choosing?
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Am I ready for the internal shift from considering the decision to the state of making it happen?
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Will others support or hinder me in executing the decision? Am I prepared to deal with this?
Tools and good practice
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Quality decision process to create the right conditions for follow through
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Alignment with others whose help I need to achieve commitment
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Action or implementation plan
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Progress measurement (e.g., milestones)
Traps to avoid
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Making a “mental commitment,” but separately deciding not to really put forth the necessary effort to follow through
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Not dealing with obstacles that get in the way
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Procrastination
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Halfhearted commitment
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