I am often torn.
Making decisions is usually difficult for me. (See Cutting the Cord.)
I don’t know if it is because I am a Libra or what, but I can always see the benefits of all sides to a decision, and it makes it very hard to choose.
I do not particularly enjoy this part of my personality, though I do appreciate my ability to see more than just one side.
I also think a large contributing factor is my fear of making a mistake. What if I screw up my whole life because I choose wrong?
Yikes. Pressure much?
The past few years, I have been realizing that even in the past when I have made decisions that I felt were “wrong,” later on, they turned out to be “right” in some way. Even through what seemed like a real mistake, something necessary came from the experience.
The black and white thinking that a choice could have that much power over my existence…not sure where that comes from. But I know that I cannot – no, I will not – live like that anymore.
In the last year, I have made it a goal to stress less around decision-making. To just make the best decision I can with the info I have at the time that I am making it and to then “let the chips fall where they may.”
Easier said than done, but I have made some headway.
When I find myself feeling “torn” over the different options I am deciding between, I just stop myself and gently but firmly make myself take the leap in one direction.
Sometimes it has been anxiety-producing. And sometimes, very liberating.
It is always better than staying stuck (and torn) between options.
What are some ways that you make decisions that you feel work well?
Life On The Skinny Branches 
I’d like to say that I’m very deliberate in my decision making process, that I look at things logically, rationally, and that I closely examine the pros and cons of each option. I’d like to say all that. But basically I go with whatever my gut tells me without a whole lot of cognitive thought.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Maybe that is the best way…
LikeLiked by 1 person
One of the areas I had difficulty making decisions was food. I would go to a restaurant and get down to two choices. I would choose one, and then often regret my decision.
Now, I employ two strategies. If something is new and novel, I try it. The other option has me asking the staff which of the two choices are better. I have never regretted it. I used to think that the staff would always choose the more expensive one, but that isn’t the case.
I got this idea from a book I read.
LikeLike
Restaurants are so tough for me! I usually just ask my husband to make the decisions. But then I have to fight to keep quiet about second-guessing the decisions!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like your idea of having some “rules” or assists around that…
LikeLike
You’re on the right track with being okay to decide no matter what the outcome may be. Sometimes that happens to be the best form of adventure!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s taken awhile to get that, but you are right!
LikeLike
Nice post on decisions. I pray about it if it is hard and get guidance from above.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! Glad you have a way that works for you!
LikeLike
If it is a big one, I, too, seek help from my Higher Power. It’s the everyday or medium ones that I jam myself up with making. Getting better though! Thanks for reading.
LikeLike
Thank you. It looks like this can work for everybody.
LikeLiked by 1 person