Life changing decisions are never easy. Changes we make come with consequences. For example, if you decide you want to get a new job for more money, that change could result in a longer commute, longer working hours, or a lot of added responsibility. Here are some steps you can take to make decisions:
-Get pen and paper out and write things down during the decision making process. The physical act of writing helps our brains process information better.
-Write down all the advantages (pros) on one side of the paper. Write down the disadvantages (cons) on the other. Mentally put yourself on each side of the decision and visualize what your life will look like with and without the change you're considering. Don't forget to list how your decision will affect those around you.
-Assign a value to each of the pros and cons. What is the most important to you? If it's really important, give it a higher number. Using our example, if a longer commute isn't a big deal, you'd give it a value of 1. If longer working hours makes you cringe, give it a 10. Decide what you're willing to sacrifice, and what you absolutely must have.
-Ask yourself, "How do I want to feel at the end of this? What do I want my life to look like after I make this decision?"
-Now look at the whole list. Where are your 10s and where are your 1s? How long is each side of the list?
-Put the list away for 24 hours and don't think about it. When you take it out again, decide if you still feel as strongly about each pro and con. Change any number you need to.
-Make your decision, then stand by it. Make a list of the steps you will need to take to do it. Set a time limit on each step.
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