Have you been sitting on the fence, contemplating making a major decision that has left you feeling overwhelmed? 

I sure have, on more than one occasion.

In fact, I regularly run recruitment agency startup workshop events, and end up sitting opposite someone agonising about whether or not, they should make an investment to get started.

Well, if like me you have ever faced a shall I shan’t I decision, then I would like to share a game-changer call – the Business BRAIN model.

The Birth of the Business BRAIN

Believe it or not, it all started in a maternity ward. 

In the UK, over half of childbirths require some kind of intervention. 

Doctors and midwives use the BRAIN model to make quick, critical decisions. 

Others thought, “If this can bring new life into the world, why not breathe new life into one's businesses?”

Why We Need a Framework

As entrepreneurs, we often lean heavily on some form of social proof to make decisions. 

And while, ‘if it’s good enough for Sally, then it’s probably good enough for me!’ could be a line of reasoning, it most definitely shouldn’t be your only one. 

The Business BRAIN model provides a structured, balanced approach to decision-making, combining clear-headed analysis with gut instinct.

So, what exactly is the Business BRAIN model? Let’s break it down:

B – Benefits

Start by listing all the potential benefits of your decision. What positive outcomes could result from this choice? How might it contribute to your goal of gaining real financial freedom?

R – Risks

Next, consider the risks involved. What could go wrong? What are the potential downsides or challenges you might face?

A – Alternatives

Are there other options you haven’t considered? Sometimes, the best solution isn’t immediately apparent. Brainstorm alternative approaches to solving your problem.

I – Intuition

Now’s the time to tap into your gut feeling. Does this decision feel right? Trust your instincts, but use them alongside the objective analysis you’ve just completed.

N – Nothing

Finally, consider the option of doing nothing or delaying the decision. Sometimes, not acting can be a strategic choice in itself.

Putting the Business BRAIN to Work

Let’s play this out with someone looking to start their very own home-based recruitment agency.

It’s a decision that could skyrocket your revenue, but it comes with a price tag. 

Here’s how you might apply the Business BRAIN model:

Benefits: Own boss, financial security, training by a recruitment expert who has over 40 years industry experience, not working eight till late to make someone else rich. 

Risks: Having to invest more than my monthly salary, no guarantee of success, what if I fail!

Alternatives: Could watch hours of YouTube videos, speak to someone I know who is in the game.

Intuition: Do I have the drive and desire to succeed, does having a home-based business sit well with me?

Nothing: What if I simply just maintain the status quo? How might that impact my future plans?

The Power of Pause

One of the most valuable aspects of the Business BRAIN model is that it forces you to pause and reflect. 

In the hustle of making a living, it’s easy to get swept up in the momentum of just living paycheque to paycheque.

But sometimes, the most powerful thing to do is to throw caution to the wind and take action.

As the saying goes “In the end, we always regret the decisions we didn’t make and the dreams we didn’t fight for.”

Being decisive isn’t just about knowing what to do—it’s also about knowing what not to do. 

The ‘Nothing’ step in the BRAIN model reminds us that “If we keep doing what you’ve always done, then you’ll keep getting what you have always gotten.”

Embracing Uncertainty

Let me be honest—using this framework can feel uncomfortable at first. 

We’re all so often used to having certainty with our decision-making, but starting a business is often built in uncertainty. 

If you’re feeling anxious as you work through the BRAIN model, don’t worry, you’re probably on the right track.

The Business BRAIN model isn’t about removing all risk from your decisions. 

Instead, it helps ensure you’ve examined your options from every angle before moving forward.

Get The Most Out Of Business BRAIN

So, here’s my challenge to you: if you are contemplating starting your own home-based recruitment agency, then, give the Business BRAIN a try.

Grab a sheet of paper, jot down those five letters, and see where it takes you. You might just surprise yourself.

And if you find yourself staring at that napkin, feeling a mix of excitement and dread (trust me, we’ve all been there), why not reach out? 

I’d love to have you join me at one of my free workshop events and there we can put our Business BRAINs together. 

Who knows? It might just be the beginning of your next big chapter.