We all have times in our lives when we need to make big decisions. Again, I will turn to the process of “how” something gets done, not the decision itself. I have found that using my “gut instinct” can give a perspective of reality that using my brain may not. Using both is essential of course. And it’s a tricky thing, as both parts are big influences on how a decision gets made. I believe that taking time to sit and allowing myself to consider my inter-feelings and the consequences (on myself and
on others) greatly influences the conclusion of my decision.
That brings me to thinking about trust. Trust in one’s abilities to make a decision that will be satisfying and have the appropriate outcome. Smaller decisions ending in success grows confidence in our ability to make bigger ones. It develops the trust. It gives us positive feedback and supports self-confidence. It furthers our determination in our capability to guide our lives. Trust is a powerful asset in positioning positive outcomes.
Making big decisions needs time, germination and follow-through. Time to conceive; and time to develop the conception. I envision a funnel that gets filled to the top with ideas. No matter how silly, quirky or absurd they may seem. Then, one by one, tossing away the ideas that don’t fit or make sense.
Once the concept is in place, the germination begins. Attaching ideas to a decision.
Processing feelings and thoughts about each idea. Looking for decisions that lead to positive outcomes. Also, checking the validity of the idea. Does it make sense for the intention of the decision? If it does, keeping it in the mix for further consideration.
Follow-through comes from the “trying on” of the ideas. Using resources, acquiring
knowledge-asking experts, using hard data and bouncing ideas off of others…that you trust. People who have made good decisions in their lives; and who have been successful in their outcomes. Questioning the information received and questioning what is not being said or considered. Yes, for a sound decision all of this takes time.
Sometimes, but not often, making a big decision needs a quick answer. Quick decisions really only need to be made when the situation is an emergency. When something needs to be reacted to. Emergencies are usually few and far between. At least they should be. If you are living your life with too many emergencies, or you find yourself continually reacting you might want to step back and re-evaluate.
That said sometimes emergencies come into our lives and a big decision needs to be made immediately. When this happens, I encourage you to talk. Again, talk to those you trust and to those who have given you useful information in the past. Also, seek out a professional or someone who might have more expertise than you have. Listen to their wisdom. Take the wisdom and massage it with your feelings and with your mind. Again, talk about the “expert ideas” with others you trust. Be curious and ask questions. Feel the process in your gut. Does it feel “right” or is there a nagging bothersome that occurs when you think of it? If there is some trepidation it is to be expected. But, the trepidation needs to be about the unknowns
surrounding the situation. Not about the ability to make the decision.