Step One: Define the problem to be solved.
Jill wants to go to the party with Jack, but there will be drinking, and he's sure to get drunk. How will Jill get home safely from the party.
Step Two: Generate at least three options or alternative courses of action.
1. Jill could just say no and not go to the party.
2. She could insist on driving.
3. She could demand the keys when they get to the party.
4. Jack and Jill could go with another couple and designate a sober driver.
5. Jack and Jill could go fetch a pail of water (or go to a movie) instead of going to the party.
Step Three: Think about the positive and negative consequences of each option.
1. Not fun. Jill really likes Jack and does not want to miss the party.
2. This could be an option.
3. Not a good plan. Jack might get mad or just not turn over the keys.
4. This could be an option.
5. Jill really wants to go to the party. She has a new outfit to wear.
Step Four: List others affected by these options and describe any feelings, emotions, or values that may be in conflict with the options you have named.
Jill did this in Step 3 when she thought about Jack's reactions.
Step Five: After weighing all the options, choose the best one.
Jill chooses option 4 - riding with another couple with a designated driver.
Step Six: Design a plan of action to carry out this decision.
Jill recruits help from her best friend, Jane. Jane's boyfriend, Tarzan, doesn't drink at all and has a really cool car. Jack and Jill ride with Jane and Tarzan.
Step Seven: Evaluate your decision.
Jack and Jill ride to the party with Jane and Tarzan. This would have worked out okay, but Jane started flirting with Jack! Next time, Jill will drive.