Decision Making Ages 20 to 60

For individuals aged 21 to 60, decision-making plays a critical role in managing various life responsibilities and achieving personal and professional goals. During this time the brain has fully matured, resulting in optimal use of both the Automatic and Deliberate decision making systems to successfully and predictably perform daily, upgrade/modify, and life direction decisions. The improvement in cognitive capacity results in the brain being able to develop a routine that results in sustainable and consistent need fulfillment. When the solutions used to accomplish need fulfillment no longer work as they did, the brain can shift from the Automatic to the Deliberate system to make a change. As the frontal lobes of the brain have matured, the powerful cognitive resources are available to consider changes in the future and the impact it will have on current needs and those that are yet to be experienced such as a new job position, becoming a parent, or traveling to an unknown place.

As the brain matures it is also ready to help family, friends, and community members to collaboratively meet their own needs. All aspects of decision making are required when helping others to establish a routine that meets their needs in childhood, adolescence, adulthood and senior phases of life. As the brain matures it is able to adapt and learn to take on new roles. The life roles during this period typically include:

  1. Professional/Career:
    • Career Advancement: Pursuing promotions, leadership roles, and further career development.
    • Job Stability: Making decisions about job changes, work conditions, and long-term career planning.
    • Skill Development: Engaging in continuous professional education, training, and acquiring new skills to stay competitive.
  2. Parent:
    • Parenting: Making decisions about raising children, including education, health, and extracurricular activities.
    • Family Planning: Deciding on family size, having additional children, and managing family dynamics.
  3. Spouse/Partner:
    • Relationship Maintenance: Working on maintaining and nurturing marital or partnership relationships.
    • Shared Goals: Collaborating on long-term goals, such as financial planning, home ownership, and travel.
  4. Family Member:
    • Elder Care: Making decisions about the care and support of aging parents or relatives.
    • Extended Family: Balancing responsibilities and maintaining relationships with siblings, in-laws, and extended family.
  5. Friend:
    • Social Networks: Building and maintaining friendships, providing support, and engaging in social activities.
    • Conflict Resolution: Managing conflicts within social circles and maintaining healthy relationships.
  6. Consumer:
    • Financial Management: Budgeting, saving for retirement, managing investments, and making significant purchases (e.g., home, car).
    • Lifestyle Choices: Deciding on housing, transportation, and personal expenses.
  7. Community Member:
    • Civic Engagement: Participating in community service, local governance, and civic responsibilities.
    • Volunteer Work: Contributing to community initiatives, non-profit organizations, and social causes.
  8. Self-Manager:
    • Health and Wellness: Making decisions about diet, exercise, mental health, and healthcare.
    • Time Management: Prioritizing and managing time effectively to balance various commitments.
  9. Leader/Mentor:
    • Leadership Roles: Taking on leadership positions in professional or community settings.
    • Mentorship: Guiding and mentoring younger individuals or colleagues.
  10. Entrepreneur:
    • Business Ventures: Starting and managing a business or entrepreneurial projects.
    • Innovation and Strategy: Making strategic decisions about business growth, market opportunities, and innovation.
  11. Investor:
    • Financial Investments: Making decisions about investments, stock markets, real estate, and other financial ventures.
    • Risk Management: Assessing and managing financial risks and opportunities.
  12. Homeowner:
    • Home Management: Making decisions about home maintenance, renovations, and property management.
    • Real Estate: Buying, selling, or renting properties, and managing mortgages.
  13. Traveler/Explorer:
    • Travel Decisions: Planning and making decisions about travel and exploration for personal growth, leisure, or professional opportunities.
    • Cultural Exposure: Engaging with different cultures, broadening perspectives, and gaining global experiences.
  14. Philanthropist:
    • Charitable Giving: Making decisions about charitable donations, supporting causes, and engaging in philanthropy.
    • Volunteer Leadership: Leading or participating in charitable organizations and initiatives.
  15. Academic/Learner:
    • Lifelong Learning: Continuing education, pursuing advanced degrees, certifications, or new skills.
    • Personal Development: Engaging in hobbies, intellectual pursuits, and self-improvement activities.
  16. Health Advocate:
    • Healthcare Decisions: Making informed decisions about personal and family healthcare, insurance, and medical treatments.
    • Wellness Practices: Adopting and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits to ensure long-term well-being.
  17. Retirement Planner:
    • Retirement Savings: Planning and saving for retirement, making investment decisions, and managing retirement accounts.
    • Post-Retirement Activities: Deciding on post-retirement goals, activities, and lifestyle.
  18. Networker:
    • Professional Networking: Building and maintaining a professional network for career advancement and opportunities.
    • Social Networking: Engaging in social networks for support, friendship, and community involvement.

During this age range, decision-making skills are essential for successfully managing multiple life roles, achieving personal and professional goals, and preparing for the future. The ability to make informed, strategic decisions can significantly impact the quality of life and overall well-being.

CORE Deliberate Decision-Making – Ages 21 to 60

Accelerated Making Better Decisions CORE – Ages 21 to 60

FREE COURSE – Caregiving for Family Members 60 Plus

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