Making decisions is an integral part of being a business owner. Whether it’s deciding on the future direction of your company or choosing between different strategies, the ability to make informed choices is crucial.

Figures play a significant role in decision-making. While some entrepreneurs love diving into the details, others find it taxing and prefer to avoid it. Regardless of your personal inclination, understanding the figures related to a decision is essential. If figures aren’t your strong suit, it’s crucial to have someone on your team who can analyze and interpret the data accurately. This could be your accountant, bookkeeper, or CFO.

To simplify the decision-making process, it’s helpful to follow the five steps of the “decide already” formula: Future, Facts, Figures, Feelings, and Feedback. Each step corresponds to an important aspect of the decision. The more significant the decision, the more time and effort you should invest in each step.

When it comes to figures, many business owners tend to overlook their importance. This can lead to poor decision-making and costly mistakes. It’s essential to dig deep into the numbers and understand their implications before moving forward. By doing so, you can avoid making decisions based solely on gut feelings or incomplete information.

Information overload is another challenge that entrepreneurs face when dealing with figures. Analyzing large amounts of data can be overwhelming and lead to decision paralysis. Striking the right balance between simplifying and clarifying the data is key. Remember, clarity creates confidence, and confidence ignites momentum. When you have a clear understanding of the figures, you can make decisions with confidence and drive momentum in your business.

One valuable tool in decision-making is the cost-benefit analysis. It consists of four key elements: resource allocation, risk management, decision clarity, and accountability. By conducting a cost-benefit analysis, you can determine the most efficient way to allocate your resources, identify potential risks, make balanced decisions, and promote transparency and accountability within your organization.

Evaluating the financial viability and sustainability of a decision is crucial. Understanding cash flow, profitability, financial ratios, and the time horizon are all essential factors to consider. Cash flow is not the same as profitability, and it’s important to distinguish between the two. Assessing profitability helps determine if a decision is financially viable. Financial ratios provide insights into various aspects of your business, and understanding them is crucial for decision-making. Lastly, considering the time horizon ensures that decisions align with your strategic objectives and deadlines.

Figures can be frustrating, but it’s important not to overlook them. Relying solely on intuition or gut feelings can lead to poor decisions. By conducting a thorough cost-benefit analysis and evaluating the financial viability and sustainability of a decision, you’ll be better prepared to make informed choices that drive growth and success in your business.

So, the next time you’re faced with a decision, big or small, remember the power of figures. Take the time to dig into the data, align it with the future you envision, and gather feedback from your team. With a comprehensive understanding of the figures, you can confidently make decisions that propel your business forward. This article was written based on an episode of the Business Owner Breakthrough Podcast.