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Master the OODA Loop and Make Smarter, Faster Decisions Every Time
Improving your ability to make better and faster decisions is one of the most important skills you can develop. Why? Because every major moment in life starts with a decision.
Whether it’s walking away from a toxic job or relationship, making an investment, or choosing something personal, your decisions can lead to success, while hesitation can mean missing out.
But making decisions is often harder than it seems. Many people struggle not just with knowing the best option, but with the time it takes to make up their mind. If you hesitate to apply for a dream job, the opportunity may vanish before you decide.
The key to making smarter decisions faster lies in striking the balance between speed and clarity. One tool that has helped countless people achieve this is the OODA Loop.
Developed by U.S. Air Force Colonel John Boyd, the OODA Loop — short for Observe, Orient, Decide, Act — is a four-step framework originally designed for fast-paced, high-pressure environments like aerial combat.
Over time, its power has extended beyond warfare, proving useful in business, health, relationships, and more.
So, how does the OODA Loop help you make smarter decisions faster? Let’s break it down the four steps: