This study explores how aligned factors such as goal/desire, identity, values, and beliefs maximize cognitive readiness, which is a critical factor in the ability of project managers to process situational information or project signals in an increasingly turbulent post-COVID environment and improve decision-making. We show that cognitive readiness is highest when project goals dovetail with the personal goals and identity of the team. This could create intrinsic motivation in team members and enhance the clarity of choices that supports attaining the desired individual and project goals. The findings indicate that if individuals in project management set goals congruent and aligned with their highest value, their sensory awareness ( 1 1 Sensory awareness - the direct focus on specific sensory aspects of the body or outer or inner environment. R. T. Hurlburt Christopher L. Heavey and A. Bensaheb, Sensory Awareness, Article in Journal of Consciousness Studies, January 2009, Accessed June 2023, Online. Available: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/233693913 selective bias) filters out noise, they are present, mindful and aware, they are in flow, focused and diligent, they see opportunities, they take advantage of the synchronicities, 2 2 Synchronicity is a concept first introduced by analytical psychologist Carl G. Jung "to describe circumstances that appear meaningfully related yet lack a causal connection." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synchronicity make decisions quick, and take inspired actions.