Just Choose!

I’ve had so many discussions with people lately about their difficulty making decisions. They describe feeling paralyzed with fear of making the “wrong” choice. This is such a common feeling that a Princeton University philosopher named it “decidophobia!” I always explain that there is no wrong choice. Every decision you make is a learning experience.

 It really takes the pressure off when you realize that every experience you have, whether you characterize it as “good” or “bad,” is exactly the experience you need to have at that moment. Some choices may lead to more painful lessons than others, but nothing is worse than living in fear. You won’t be able to move forward—or in any direction when you feel STUCK. You may also miss out on great opportunities.

 Technique of the week: The next time you’re worried about making a decision—STOP yourself and realize that you NEED to make a move and you WILL learn (because you’ll make the conscious choice to learn). Strengthen your decision-making muscle by starting small. What are some little decisions you have been putting off? Life involves taking risks. Choose a direction and make peace with it!