HOMEROOM GUIDANCE

DARE: Decision As Realistic Endeavors

Learning Objectives
At the end of the period, you are expected to be able to:
1. Define the various strategies in decision-making (3 C’s, Pros and Cons, Analytical);
2. Apply the strategies in decision-making that are appropriate in reaching your goals;
3. Analyze yours and others’ decision-making strategies; and
4. Formulate your guide in making decisions to foster a sense of responsibility and accountability.

Introduction
Every decision someone makes determines the outcome of his goals. That is why, sound decision-
making is an essential skill that all learners like you should possess. Every decision always has it’s
positive and negative consequences.
This module will allow you to refresh, enhance and deepen your learning on decision-making.
Having the know-how to apply certain skill in real and various life situations will lead you to a better and
brighter result.
Your decision is your choice. Decide now...later... or never?
Activity 1: Cast Away
It is a game where all students need to decide properly. Imagine that you are stranded in a
deserted island with all your classmates, and upon searching for an oasis. You stumbled on an ordinary
lamp. You shook it hard in order to find clean water. After shaking the lamp, a mystical Genie appeared.
You saved him from an eternal slumber that he offered you three wishes for his appreciation. What would
be your 3 wishes?
Processing Questions
1. What did you learn on the said activity?
2. Did you think properly the pros and cons of your wishes?
3. While making your decision, did you think about your classmates?

Lecture:
The Three Cs of Decision-Making
Clarify – first, be clear about the problem that has to be solved. When the problem has become
understandable, it becomes easy to identify what decision has to be made.
Consider – explore all possible choices or options and visualize what would happen for each choice or
option; carefully think about the positive and negative consequences for each choice. It is also best to get
additional information from reliable sources.
Choose – choosing may be difficult at times but if you are well-informed, you can be confident that you
can make the best choice.
Aside from the Three Cs, additional strategies in decision-making can also be used. Here are
some alternative strategies that can help you in your decision-making process.
Considering the pros and cons. By carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages, the
favorable and unfavorable and the good and the bad points can help one in coming up with a solid and
balanced decision.
Analytical approach. This can be used by breaking down a problem until it reaches a stage
where it can be easily solved. By separating a problem into its smallest parts, its complexity is also
diminished.

Types of Decision-Making
Majority Rule – This is when a decision is the one that has the most number of support. Some examples
include ballot voting and a show of hands.
When to use it:
• Options are clear and simple and not likely to be misinterpreted.
• Group has discussed issue at length beforehand but can’t come together to an agreement.
• Group is on a deadline to make a decision.
• Power in a group is somewhat balanced, so all members’ voices are equally heard.

Consensus Rule – When a decision is made by a group as one. Everybody agrees on one thing in the end.
When to use it:
• Time is not limited and a decision is not subjected to be made by a target date.
• There are different perspectives but there is a common goal.
• People are willing to engage in numerous discussions to share ideas and to find solutions.
We always hear the phrase, “Knowledge is power.” A learner like you can make good decisions
only when you are informed. Here are a few steps that might help in making better choices.
Identify what should be decided. This is the first step in most decision-making situations. What
do I do today? What do I wear for my class? Identification aids in narrowing down and solving the
problem at hand.
No or Yes. At times, problems and dilemmas are answerable by a simple yes or no. But often, decisions
must be considered well and it can take days and nights for a sound decision to be made.
Find A Friendly Advice. Teenagers are often at risk of making poor decisions because they do not seek
advice from people, especially those who can help them. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help
from others such as your parents, teachers, counselors and friends.
Options are great weapons in making sound decisions. Write down the pros and cons and give it a
thought. It might help you in times of confusion and bewilderment.
Reflect. Most people reflect after making a decision but reflecting on a decision before it can be made is a
great idea. It’s not a bad thing to ask, sit down for a second and ask yourself: “Is this the right thing to
do?”
Make a deadline. Ideally, enough time should be given to make a wise decision but there are instances
when a decision must be made immediately such as when one decides whether to accept a job or refuse it,
or when one decides when to start that school project that is due soon.
Envision a situation afterwards. Close your eyes and imagine a scene after making a particular decision.
For example, when you buy an item that you want but is way out of your budget. Imagine yourself paying
off that object. Do you see an empty wallet? Do you think maybe it would be better if you save up for it
first?
Don’t be in a rush. Sometimes when we rush ourselves, we make rash decisions instead. Try to let a day
pass before making a big decision. Think about it overnight and make a choice later.

What I have learned: Share your Thoughts and Learnings

As you reflect on the lessons that you have learned today, repeat the Activity 1 and apply the
lessons that you learned.