There's one simple action you can take to solve any problem. No matter how big or how small the problem, this one action can propel you to incredible personal and professional achievement. The world's most successful people share this powerful, yet simple, technique. You've heard of it before, but perhaps you've never realized its potential. I'm speaking of decision-making.

Careers are made and broken, quality of life improves and suffers, through two avenues: making decisions, or failing to make decisions. The deciders are the ones who always get ahead, while procrastinators never seem to get anywhere.

Part of this is because successful people are competent at making decisions. That isn't to say that all of their decisions are good; rather, they know how to process data quickly and make a firm decision regardless of what others might think. They are confident in their judgments, and as a result, it's no surprise that decision-makers are the ones who earn the highest levels of income. Meanwhile, those who never make up their minds remain on the lowest end of the income scale. The decision-avoiders live a self-fulfilling prophecy, controlled by life's circumstances rather than controlling them.

Research has shown that highly successful people make decisions quickly and change their minds slowly, if at all. People who enjoy—and are capable of— making decisions all have one thing in common: a strong self-image. Top leaders know that making firm decisions builds a foundation for a higher quality of life—both personally and professionally.

On the other hand, people who rarely enjoy any level of success make decisions slowly, and change their minds often. These individuals are surrounded by conflict and confusion, the result of living in without resolution. Because they don't choose a side, they are left in the middle. Anyone who lives a fulfilling life understands that decision-making is something you cannot avoid.

Maybe you're thinking, "I'd like to get better at making decisions, but how do I start?" My answer is simple: the best place and time to start any new endeavor is always right here, right now. The best way to learn this kind of skill is to practice. Start making decisions. Don't be afraid of making mistakes—every mistake will make you a better, more competent decider. You will gain confidence from your success, and learn from your mistakes. Ultimately, your good decisions will help you get noticed and get ahead.

If you want to move your career, better still your life, to a higher level, you need to develop the ability to make solid decisions. Never question yourself about "how" something will happen. That isn't in your hands—it is up to the universe to provide the "how." All you need to do is make the decision to do something—anything. Then go out and do it. It's really that simple!