94 Unit 2 Setting and Reaching Life Goals
Identify the Issue
The decision-making process begins with the
individual understanding the situation he or she
faces. What is it about a situation that requires a
decision to be made? Many situations are quite
complicated and include several issues. The fi rst
step is to clarify what the issue is, as Chandra did.
See step 1 of Figure 4.9.
Chandra’s mother worked full-time and made
enough money to meet the family’s basic living
expenses. Chandra, however, wanted to have some
extra spending money. For her, the issue was to fi nd
a way to earn some money of her own.
Figure 4.9 Developing your skill in using this process can help you make decisions or solve problems in your
daily living. What big decision will you be making in the near future?
Using the Decision-Making Process
Step 1 Identify the decision to be made.
Chandra wants more spending money. She sets a goal to fi nd a job.
Step 2 Identify all possible alternatives.
Chandra knows that fi nding a job will be a major task. She has no previous work experience and
must work limited hours. She lists four possible job alternatives.
1. Work part-time after school.
2. Work weekends only.
3. Apply for a work-study job at school.
4. Join a vocational co-op program at the high school.
Step 3 Consider each alternative.
1. Work part-time after school.
Pros Cons
• This option offers a steady work schedule
and provides the most work hours.
• These jobs are more available.
• Chandra would not be able to take part in
volleyball, softball, and fl ag squad—all of
which she enjoys.
• Students with after-school jobs are often
scheduled to work weekends as well. This
would not leave much time for studying. Chandra
knew studying was important to her to reach
her long-term goal of going to college.
2. Work weekends only.
Pros Cons
• Work would not interfere with Chandra’s
school schedule during the week.
• She would be able to take part in more
after-school activities.
• Weekend jobs are harder to fi nd.
• A weekend job would take time away from
family activities.
3. Apply for a work-study job at school.
Pros Cons
• The work location is convenient.
• She could continue with her after-school
activities.
• A limited number of jobs are available.
Only a few students with an interest in offi ce
occupations are chosen.
(Continued)
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