Three easy ways to make a decision

We know that successful people often take action quickly, but they have to make up their minds first.

by Nathalie Ekobo — 

At one time or another, we all probably have had a hard time making a decision. We weigh the pros and cons of an opportunity, mull them over and over again, and frequently overanalyze them. By the time we are ready to decide and move forward, the opportunity is long gone.

We know that successful people often take action quickly, but  they have to make up their minds first. Great outcomes begin with decisions. So why is it that we sometimes freeze? The inability to make a decision can be very costly for businesses and careers, as well as to health and relationships.

We are not taught how to make decisions in school. We may even have been taught by our parents to think twice and not rush into action. Indecision creates an inner conflict that generates energy unsupportive to our health and well-being.

What do we risk by rushing? Don’t we risk even more when decisions are slow to come or are not made? Options arise anytime we ask ourselves, “What should I do?”

Fortunately, there are ways to help you move forward, especially if you are feeling trapped or stuck. First, find a quiet place. Think about the decision you have to make. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for this exercise. It is a very simple, yet effective way to move forward without fear. Next, take the following steps:

1. Write down all the options and possibilities.
2. Close your eyes. Review each of the options for a few minutes and try to get a picture of how it looks or how it feels. Only think about one at a time. Pretend you made that decision, and become aware of its implications. Go inside yourself and try to connect with your gut feeling. Listen to your inner wisdom, your instinct, your intuition. Don’t listen to your fear; push it gently on the side, and examine the outcome produced by this specific decision.
3. Choose the one that looks or feels best. Don’t overanalyze.

Breathe and trust your gut. You will be very happy you did.

Nathalie Ekobo, M.S., M.A., L.M.T., is a certified Spiritual Response Therapy (SRT) teacher and consultant, success coach, speaker and founder of Be Magnifique™. www.BeMagnifique.com, 602-881-3040 or Nathalie@BeMagnifique.com.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 27, Number 6, December 2008/January 2009.