One of the toughest things about being a business owner or entrepreneur is some of the decisions that have to be made rather quickly most days. Especially decisions that can be “make or break” decisions. One of history’s best decision makers was Benjamin Franklin. Franklin had devised a fool proof way to make his important decisions rather swiftly. His homemade method of making decisions is still used by business people and entrepreneurs even today. It has been copied and duplicated thousands if not millions of times to fit practically any decision. It is so simple, I just call it the Franklin Method.

The Franklin Method involves taking out a piece of paper and a pen. On the paper draw a giant “T”. Depending on the decision to be made, on one side write the “pros” and on the other side write “cons”. Under that the first column labeled “Pros” write a list of every positive aspect of the decision. Once the list is complete move to the “Cons” column and write everything that would be bad about the decision. Once both lists are complete add the number of ideas in each column and the column with the most in it wins the decision. If there are more “Pros” than “Cons” you have a decision and vice versa. It sounds simple but it truly does work. It is simply a decision of does the risk out way the reward or vice versa. If the decision must be made quickly, this is one of the best methods I have found.

The Franklin Method can also be used as a closing tool for sales people and insurance agents. Simply list the “Pros and Cons” of your product against not having it or your competitor’s product. The Franklin Method quickly becomes clear to your prospect on should they buy or pass on your product or service. No pressure, no “think about it” and no more research. The Franklin Method can be used to simplify a difficult decision for most people.

On your next difficult decision when time is of the essence, give the Franklin Method a try. Benjamin would be proud.

“Stay committed to your decisions, but stay flexible in your approach.”— Tony Robbins

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Tim Wilhoit is owner/principal of Your Friend 4 Life Insurance Agency in Nashville, TN. He is a family man, father of 3, grandfather of 1, entrepreneur, insurance agent, life insurance broker, employee benefit specialist, salesman, sales trainer, recruiter, public speaker, blogger, author and team leader with over 29 years of experience in sales and marketing in the insurance and beverage industries.