Monday, July 26, 2010

Tough decision.. !!


Sometimes in life we face tough decisions that involve one or more known or unknowns. We don’t know in advance what the consequences of each alternative will be. This is especially true of certain decisions like quitting a job, entering or exiting a relationship, or moving to a new city.

Initially I was also bit skeptical about how to deal with the situation, then later after thinking and talking to a few of my closest friends, I framed a list of things that need to be taken care of while making a decision. Though the list might not be true for everyone but it has helped me in taking the decision so far.

First let me give you a brief background: life deals each of a different set of cards and I received each of a different suit i.e. A Heart, A Diamond, A Spade and A Club. Then next step was to choose the best possible suit for myself. ;)

In a way every decision involves a choice between maintaining the status quo vs. making a change. When we can’t be certain a change will work out for the better, by default we stay put. So here’s the list I was talking about:

  • When we look at choices as being more than just paths — as being creative statements of self-expression — certain decisions become much easier to make. You may say to yourself, “This path isn’t going to be easy, but I know this is the right way to go because it’s who I am.” So for each alternative you’re considering, ask yourself, “Is this really me?”
  • It's not that you have to stick one decision at any point of time. You can always change your mind. Sometimes the situation changes and you discover new things. At that time changing your mind might be the smartest thing to do.
  • Make sure you take the time you need to make the best decision possible. Don't leave it to the last minute to make up your mind, but give yourself time to think about the good and bad of all of the possibilities.
  • There are very rarely only 2 options in most situations. Consider what you can that is obvious, and then think of about 10 more ways you can go about it. Often you'll come up with variations on some of the choices, or even new options that you never considered. This is where the gold is at. Think of these options carefully, and make a good and well informed decision based on what you think is best.

Keeping these things in mind, I have cleared my confusion regarding 2 suits and hope that will take the decision regarding next 2 suits soon. Also I have taken charge and seen myself as an expert of my choices which has given me the confidence to make difficult decisions. I can ensure that if you never finally make the decision you will spend your days wishing that you had. I believe it is better to make a choice and give it a try then to sit and allow life to happen to you. Make a choice and take ownership for that choice. J J