The first step in the decision-making process is to define the situation that you need to make a decision about. Situations are the separate events that make up your life. Each decision you make depends on the situation in which you find yourself.

The symbol we use for a situation is the letter "S" inside a circle. The circle surrounds and isolates the situation. The curves of the "S" link the elements of a situation: external (facts) and internal (feelings).

What were the roots of your current incarceration, or of any particular situation from your past experience?  We offer a memory acronym of CARD to help personalize the review.

C - Chance...a sheer accident out of your control. Lottery winner.

A - Assumption...taking something for granted without considering alternatives....Tom is always on that street corner, so I'll meet him.

R  - Reaction....Unconsidered, often emotional response...All my cars should be red.

D - Decision...Action based on careful consideration of alternatives and results.

Step Two