I’m not saying in all cases we can’t rely on our own good judgment. I’m saying in many cases we think that’s what we’ve applied in making decisions, but we’re fooling ourselves. Sometimes it’s because we want a quicker change and fast results.

Here’s a few pointers I’ve learned to support my better judgment…

What Works for Others Will Work for You – This isn’t always the case. Assess your specific career or business needs and don’t be enticed to try another new “fix” or strategy just because someone suggests it – including referrals for contract technicians. I’ve had a few Virtual Assistants referred to me as excellent service professionals, but few of these had been actually tried overtime by the person who referred them. I finally learned to ask more questions upfront. Other people have different personal, financial and career situations than you. Remember this motto: Beware Compare. Review your own needs more thoroughly before signing on the dotted line.

It Sounds Really Good – So-called “experts” will offer you their special programs and products guaranteed to launch you and your business into the stratospheres of success. Common sense might tell you “the best” or “#1″ would be really helpful for you. But it can’t be, otherwise everyone wouldn’t be using this same language to introduce their offerings. Be more discerning. Ask others you trust for their before and after pictures of their specific improvements. Listen how those changes are applicable to your specific needs.

It Will Save You Time and Money – common sense says this is something to stand up and listen to. But if it didn’t do this, why would you bother? Don’t expect their saving measures will cost you little to nothing and leave you couch potato time. As the expression goes, “it takes something to get something,” even if it’s your management time.

Before adding the next big thing, make sure it’s an investment worth making. Are you really ready to take that next class when you haven’t finished implementing the information from the last one? Social networking is another good example. While it expands your contacts, are you just busy building those lists or are you generating solid profit leads that you’re following up on?

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