When indecision strikes

There are so many times I can think of when a decision – be it a major one or a seemingly minor one – has left me going round in circles, unable to think straight and even unable to sleep.

What to do and how to get out off this merry-go-round for the brain?

The main issue I’ve noticed is that when I examine the reasons for my indecision, I’m overly focused on the fear associated with each option.

Fear is not a friend. Fear is rarely justified.

Fear would have you believe that without it you’re at greater risk. This is simply not true. In the days of running from wild animals, or entering into battle with would-be invaders, then fear would be an appropriate, and helpful, response. For most of us, away from war zones and without being under physical attack or mortal danger, the adrenaline surge that accompanies fear brings more harm than good.

Fear is bad for health. It increases the likelihood of illness and makes every illness worse.

Respect is justified, respect is necessary. Respect is calm and logical whereas fear is a rush of blood to the head that causes confusion.

Fear of being judged often plays a part in indecision.

Judgement says ‘I’ve considered all the options and this is my decision’, rather than to discern, moment by moment, which path to take. The view from further down may look different, I may choose again. My original judgement may turn out not to serve me best.

Life would be better if we could stop pretending we know it all.

Whatever path we take at whatever point brings with it learning. Each path will bring with it different lessons. Do any paths lead us off the edge of a cliff? Not many. We can usually find a way back if we think the option we took turns out to have been the wrong one.

So, in making decisions my pledge to myself is:-

· To consider what I would do if I wasn’t afraid

· To discern my way forward, step by step, and to neither judge others nor worry about being judged myself

· To ask myself ‘what would love do?’ because love is the only absolute truth.

Read more about negative thoughts in this essay by another of our contributors spontaneouslife.net/negativity