Get the facts. Analyze the facts. Make a decision. Act on that decision. 

Socrates

I came across Socrates' four-step formula for solving problems a number of years ago and have been continually impressed at the simplicity and effectiveness of his approach to solving problems and making the right choices. The formula can be used upon a moment's notice or with painstaking detail, depending on the circumstances.

For example, you might have an emergency that demands immediate, but correct, attention. Say, for instance, your hair is on fire. The process would work something like this: 1. Get the facts: My hair is on fire. 2. Analyze the facts: It hurts. 3. Make a decision: I will put out the fire. 4. Act on that decision: Put the fire out.

The beauty of this formula is that it is something that we naturally do in our everyday lives. But, miss just one step and be prepared to get burned! For instance, your boss offers you a raise at three times your present salary if you agree to be transferred to Alaska. You immediately agree without first discussing the decision with your spouse. You have skipped a step - prepare to get burned!

Now, for a moment, consider choices that arise on a daily basis. Say, for example, that you are a teenager who has been offered a beer by your "buddies". You should at this point pay close attention to that 2,500 year old Greek. Your thought process should run something like this: 1. Get the facts: I have been offered a beer. 2. Analyze the facts: It is illegal... it is wrong... Mom and Dad will kill me if they find out (and they will find out). 3. Make a decision: A live nerd is superior to a dead "King of Cool". 4. Act on that decision: No! I'm going home.

What kind of important decisions do you have to make in your life? Life is, after all, a series of choices.How we handle those choices will determine, to a great extent, our quality of life. We will look at how we must include God in this process tomorrow, but here is a hint:

This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live... 

Deuteronomy 30:19, NIV