Do you know it’s time for a change? Maybe you know its time to start making more money, but you don’t know how. Or you are at a job you know is draining your energy and sucking the life out of you. It’s even possible that there are two great opportunities in front of you, and you just don’t know which one to choose. Many people have a hard time making decisions, and it’s one of the most common topics I work with my clients on. It’s important to know that all of your thoughts and actions have lead you to the place where you are today. Even if where you currently are is uncomfortable, chaotic, or doesn’t feel good, you have the power to make a new choice.
Decision making is one of those important skills that most people don’t learn much about from their parents or take a class on in school. Many people simply make decisions based on their own personal judgments, what’s good or bad, right or wrong. While that can be helpful in making quick decisions that aren’t very complex, answers aren’t so clear when things are subjective. Should I stay in this job that makes me miserable, even though it pays the bills and meets my basic needs? Should I invest a lot of money and time to start a new business? A lot of questions don’t have easy answers. Working with a career coach can help you explore different possibilities in your life, without adding another person who is trying to tell you want to do. If you are at a crossroads, embrace this opportunity to make a new choice. Consider these 3 decision making secrets to kick-start your success!
Does this move you closer to your goal(s)?
This is one of the most important questions to consider. Will making this choice help you achieve your future goals? For most people, the default tendency is to make decisions that will keep them feeling comfortable and safe, which also means in the same position they are currently in. It’s very common to be presented with something new, like a promotion or another job but want to stay where you are out of fear of the unknown. Think about where you want to be long term. Does this option support you?
Is the cost something you can give up/make back easily?
Wouldn’t it be great if we could go through life, take no chances and end up exactly where we want to be, happy, healthy, wealthy, and wise? The reality is that to get something you’ve never had, you must be willing to do something you’ve done. This is where most people stop. They retreat, give up, and go back to all they’ve ever known. Or they stay stuck in indecision and not making a decision is the same thing as making a decision to do nothing. If you are serious about your success, understand that some sacrifice is necessary. Would you be willing to give up some time to search for a new job? Would you invest a thousand dollars in a certification for your business?
Does this add value to your life?
A lot of people are unsure of what they really want, so they don’t know what would make a difference in their level of happiness. Get clear on your values! Do you like having time to spend with your friends and family? Do you want to earn a certain amount of money, so you can have more freedom? In order to make powerful decisions that move you forward, clarity around your values is imperative. Try making a list of your values in three minutes or less. Then, look back and reflect on it without judgment. What if all of your choices moving forward were in alignment with your values?
Decision making is something that you could spend years talking about! I do full length workshops on the topic and we still only scratch the surface. Assuming that you aren’t infringing on anyone else’s rights, safety, or well-being making decisions usually isn’t very simple. Just by the fact that you are in the position to make a choice, know that you are prepared and capable of doing so. Looking to start on the path to your success? Check out our Kick Start Your Success Course today!
Porschia Parker-Griffin
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