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Editor’s Note: This is the second and final part of this article. Part one appeared in last month’s ANSOM. It can be found in its entirety on www.ansomonline.com.

Making decisions about our careers, our families and our lives is not always easy. Following these 10 tips will help you avoid the common mistakes people make, while also making better personal and professional decisions:

5. Failing to heed what’s best for you.
Too often we decide things without thought to our needs and wants. The same qualities that call us to be responsible team members are the same qualities that allow us to shortchange ourselves. Think of what is best for you. That may not fall in line with what is best for your friend, or your husband, or your boss but you must listen to what is right for you.

6. Neglecting your values.
Sometimes we make decisions that are not in alignment with our values. The world would be a better place if we all followed the Rotary Four-Way Test in our business and professional lives: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? After considering these elements, then make your choice.

7. Ignoring what’s right.
Too often we make decisions that are not right today, but we think they will be in the long run. Perhaps we twist the numbers just a bit, or inflate the resume a little, or step on someone on our way up, believing it will be worth it in the long run. That never works, not in the end. It takes a lot of courage to make the deep-down- in- your-gut-you-know-it’s-right decision today. Listen to that inner voice and trust that the rest will be taken care of.