A good decision gives your normal swing room to work. You do not need a perfect shot to make progress.
Plan from the target backward
Look for a safe approach and a comfortable place to play it from. Choose a tee shot that helps you get there. The longest club is not automatically the best choice.
Respect your pattern
If you usually miss right, allow space for that miss. Aim for a broad safe area rather than the smallest target. Near a green, the middle can be a smarter choice than a flag beside trouble.
Get out of trouble simply
When blocked by trees or a poor lie, compare the safe route back to play with the ambitious shot. Check relief options before risking a difficult swing. A modest recovery can prevent the next problem.
Review the choice
Ask whether your decision matched your ability and conditions. A bad result does not always mean a bad decision, and a lucky escape does not prove the risk was sensible.