How to Make Smarter, Faster Decisions—Even When You’re Under Pressure

Today we're going to have a quick chat leader to leader.

Let’s be honest, decision-making can be a lot, especially when the clock is ticking, and the data just isn’t there. If you’re a leader in healthcare or any high-pressure field, you know exactly what I’m talking about. But here’s a tip that can change everything for you: take a short break before you decide.

I know, I know—you’re probably thinking, "I don’t have time to take a break!" But hear me out. Giving yourself just 5 minutes to step back, breathe, and reset can make all the difference.

The Science of a Quick Decision Buffer

Here’s why it works: when you’re constantly in go mode, your brain becomes overloaded. It's like trying to run a dozen apps on your phone at once—it slows down, gets glitchy, and eventually crashes. The same happens with our decision-making skills. A short break is like hitting refresh—you clear the mental clutter, calm your emotions, and give your brain the space it needs to think clearly.

Studies have shown that even a few minutes of stepping away can reduce stress, improve clarity, and help you make decisions that are more strategic and less reactive. So while it might seem counterintuitive, taking those 5 minutes will actually help you move faster and with more confidence.

How I Make This Work

Personally, when I’m juggling multiple projects, I swear by these 5-minute resets. Here’s what I do:

1. Step Away for 5 Minutes: I’ll get up from my desk and move around—whether it’s stretching, grabbing a coffee, or just breathing fresh air. It’s a quick reset that gets me out of my head.
2. Mindfulness in Minutes: I also practice mindfulness. Taking a few deep breaths clears out the mental noise and helps me get centered. It might sound small, but it works wonders when you’re feeling the pressure.
3. No Distractions: During my 5-minute break, I stay away from distractions—no emails, no phone. This time is all about giving my brain the space to calm down and come back sharper.

Why You Should Try It

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by too many decisions or a lack of clear data, this tip will help you think more clearly and confidently. It’s not about slowing down—it’s about moving with purpose and avoiding those rushed, knee-jerk reactions that often lead to mistakes.

Want more tips like this? Download my Cognitive Leadership Guide from the Resource Library—it’s filled with practical strategies that will help you make better decisions, faster, even when the data is unclear.

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