ARE YOU A DECISION MAKER?
June 25, 2021
“Your life choices aren’t just about what you want to do; they’re about who you want to be” – Joshua Rothman
Are you a decision maker? Of course you are. If not for a major corporation or start-up, at least for your family or your own life. Do you want to get face-to-face with the biggest decision maker who can improve your life and business? Look in the mirror.
This article is dedicated to all our parents and students who wants to take charge by being a more effective decision maker, whilst providing you with the effective tools to help yourself and your child navigate the process and achieving this goal.
It is crucial for young people to understand this process to help empower them to make confident, positive decisions regarding the social, emotional and physical wellbeing for themselves and those around them as they move toward independence.
Being an effective decision maker helps any person make the best choices, but more than that, it lets you decide what the choices are and, in fact, what problem is being solved. More than anything else, it puts you in charge of your life. It is probably the most important skill for success.
So, why does everybody hate making decisions? You never hear anyone say, “Yay! I have a decision to make!” Decisions are seen as stumbling blocks rather than opportunities. The best way is to approach this process is to ask the following questions:
- What decision needs to be made,
- What are the options,
- Evaluate the options and pick the best one (pros and cons list), and
- Act on your choice and see how it works. And don’t be afraid to fail.
Decision-making is both art and science. There is an entire discipline of decision science. You can get a degree on the subject. Decision science teaches you how to maximize the expected value of your utility function. What does that mean? How does this apply to real people making real decisions?
Decision science often focuses on making a choice among alternatives, yet being an effective decision maker requires much more than this. This is where the art comes in.
- What is the most important problem to be solved?
- What are the alternatives?
- What does the future hold?
- What about all these conflicting goals?
To do this well requires both courage and imagination. Pep talks help, but specific tools and techniques are better. The secret is to strike a balance.
Here are 10 tips that will help you develop, strengthen and flex your decision-making skills.
- Know your goal.
- Never make decisions in a bad frame of mind or in a haste.
- Understand all your options.
- Visualize your future, does this decision benefit your long-term goal.
- Eliminate the unwanted. Making good decisions isn’t always about focusing on what you want, but sometimes about focusing what you don’t want but rather need.
- While aiming for the best, remember that it is not always your only option. Sometimes taking the lesser road travelled, brings you to great success.
- Don’t overthink things.
- Sometimes taking your own advice, is good advice. Imagine you are speaking to a third party that needs the same advice you are about to give ‘yourself’. Sometimes removing yourself from the equation, gives you clearer perspective.
- Look to others when needed. You can learn a lot from other people’s experiences.
- Always trust our instinct – if it doesn’t sit well with you walk away.
By no means can every tip teach good decision-making, however it is the perfect place to start!
To embrace good decision-making skills is to empower yourself and our younger generation, in making positive life choices as you navigate the challenges of life. So, make the effort master the art of decision-making.
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In today’s interconnected world, preparing students for global citizenship has never been more urgent. From climate change to public health, social injustice to shifting geopolitics, the challenges are vast. Gaborone International School (GIS) believes education must rise to meet these challenges by equipping learners with not just knowledge, but the character, skills, and global perspective to make a meaningful impact. At GIS, we don't merely aim to produce top academic performers. Our vision is to nurture well-rounded individuals who lead with empathy, collaborate across cultures and act with integrity. This aligns directly with our Brand Ladder, where the foundation of academic excellence evolves into developing confident, curious and connected global citizens. Tools like AdvLEARN, which show high satisfaction among GIS parents, allow us to personalise learning and support academic achievement in a tech-forward environment. The Core Components of Global Citizenship Education 1. Knowledge and Understanding GIS students engage with world affairs, international systems and environmental challenges. From global economies to climate justice, learners build informed opinions and make ethical decisions in a global context. 2. Skills Development Beyond textbooks, learners cultivate critical thinking, intercultural communication, digital literacy, and collaboration. These skills are nurtured through inquiry-based learning and real-world problem-solving. Discover more on life skills that every child should know. 3. Values and Attitudes Empathy, respect, and ethical responsibility are woven throughout the school culture. From community projects to classroom discussions, GIS instils values that reflect our commitment to nurturing thoughtful global participants. How GIS Integrates This Into The Curriculum Incorporating Global Themes Grounded in the rigor of the Cambridge International Curriculum , our global citizenship approach prepares students to meet international standards while developing broader worldviews. At GIS, global citizenship isn't a subject—it's a thread running through every lesson. A science class might analyse the impact of water scarcity, while literature explores voices from across continents. This interdisciplinary approach fosters global perspectives across all stages of learning. Supportive School Environment With a full-time psychologist and pastoral team, GIS prioritises emotional well-being. While 67% parent satisfaction reflects strong progress, we continue to deepen our engagement in this area. Whether it's Setswana Cultural Day or heritage exhibitions, GIS is intentional about celebrating local traditions — a fact affirmed by 84% of parents. Experiential Learning and Real-World Engagement Service-learning projects allow students to actively address real-world issues, whether through sustainability initiatives or local outreach. These experiences ground abstract concepts in real impact. GIS facilities scored 85%, yet we're actively growing our coaching programme, with 67% satisfaction signalling room to sharpen this offering — part of our ongoing commitment to holistic development. Exchange & Virtual Connections GIS learners benefit from international partnerships and virtual exchanges. These opportunities broaden cultural understanding and build authentic global friendships. With a 72% satisfaction rate in multicultural experiences, GIS learners benefit from a richly diverse environment that encourages inclusion across forms and cultures. Technology as a Bridge, Not a Barrier From virtual classrooms to curated platforms like Google Earth or international news media, technology at GIS enhances global connectivity and digital citizenship. To see how we introduce this even in our early years, view our preschool digital literacy approach at Teachers as Global Mentors With 82% of parents affirming that GIS teachers show genuine care and 80% noting that teachers understand learner needs, our educators are more than instructors — they are nurturers of potential. Ongoing professional development ensures they’re ready to navigate complex global themes. Why Choose GIS? GIS offers a seamless educational journey from Pre-School to Form 4 on a single state-of-the-art campus — a unique offering that cultivates continuity, belonging, and long-term development. Explore more about why GIS is the right choice for families seeking global readiness: School Policies and Culture Teaching global awareness can be imbedded into the culture of schools through inclusive policies, by celebrating international days and encouraging learner-led initiatives that address global challenges. When schools supports these types of efforts, learners are more likely to adopt and embody global values. Involving Parents and Communities Community Partnerships Building relationships with local and international organisations adds to the learning experience. NGOs, embassies and cultural centres are equipped to assist with resources, speakers and real-world insights that reinforce skills for global citizens. Parent Engagement Parents play a vital role. By encouraging diverse reading materials at home, discussing global events and news and taking part in school-led global initiatives can support children’s growth as active global citizens. Education isn’t confined to textbooks and classrooms any longer. It must prepare learners to think globally, act responsibly and connect with the world around them. By preparing students for global citizenship, schools can be proactive in moulding compassionate, informed and empowered leaders of the future. Gaborone International School (GIS) advocates for a holistic and inclusive approach to education. It is our aim to blend academic rigor with cultural intelligence. This approach empowers learners to thrive in and contribute to a globalised society. For more information on why to choose GIS, take a read here. FAQs 1. What are some common challenges in teaching global citizenship? Limited resources, lack of teacher training and rigid curricula can hinder implementation. 2. How can small schools with limited resources implement global citizenship education? Focus on local-global connections, leverage free digital resources and form partnerships with NGOs. 3. What are effective ways to assess students' growth as global citizens? Use reflective journals, project-based learning and peer assessments to gauge awareness and action. 4. How can global citizenship be promoted in early childhood education? Through stories, games and activities that promote kindness, sharing and awareness of diversity. 5. Are there any global certifications for schools excelling in global citizenship education? Yes, organisations like UNESCO and the IB offer frameworks and recognition for schools promoting global competencies.
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