Big Decisions: Stepping into something new

Big Decisions: Stepping into something new

 “Any decision is better than no decision.” This is something for us to remember, those who procrastinate on small decisions. But what does this mean in relation to big decisions? Learning to be effective in making small decisions can be a good foundation for working through big decisions. We just need to be clear about which is which.

Abby and Sam both worked in high pressure roles that demanded a lot from them. Every day when they got home from work they would go about getting dinner ready, talk about their day and about what needed to happen for the next day/week. There were numerous decisions they made, like who would pick up the dry cleaning, get more groceries, and attend to other day to day necessities. One day, while they were going through this evening routine, Abby said without warning, “…and I’ve made a decision to leave my job”. Sam kept talking and then it dawned on him, “Sorry did you just say you are leaving your job?” This came as a big shock to Sam as he had no pre knowledge of it and it came out during the small decisions time. From that moment on they realised that they needed to create time to talk about and navigate big decisions.

 “Make a big deal of big decisions”

We need to be aware of the impact that big decisions have on us and those around us. When we make a big decision, it usually means we are giving something else up or leaving something behind. This can make us feel a sense of loss, uncertainty and sometimes fear.

When making a big decision:

·       Clearly identify why you are making the decision. Visualise and maybe even picture board it

·       Put an execution plan in place, consider things like, who it will affect, timing and cost

·       Seek advice from trusted mentors, family, or friends

·       Be true to yourself and just do it

In the Tony Robbins Blog, Leadership & Impact - The four rules for decision-making, he writes:

We make decisions every single day. These decisions range from the small and seemingly insignificant – what should I have for breakfast? – to potentially life-changing – should I stay and work on my relationship or should we break up? How to make a decision may not seem that important when it comes to the little stuff, but when it comes to how to make a big decision, the consequences are much more impactful.

When it comes to making tough decisions, not making a decision at all is the worst option. When you see life as happening for you instead of to you, you’ll realize that even when you think you’ve made the wrong decision, you’ve learned a valuable lesson that will help you move forward armed with more information. Even if you’re not struggling to learn how to make a life-changing decision, you can still waste valuable time procrastinating on the little choices in life.

The full blog: https://www.tonyrobbins.com/leadership-impact/the-four-rules-for-decision-making/

 Big decisions face us all as we journey through life. Often, they enable us to bring about required and needed change in our lives. However not all big decisions are planned, there are times when life delivers us unfortunate events that force us to make big decisions. In these circumstances, be as intentional as you can, to be clear about what is ahead of you.

 My 5 Learnings:

·       I need to be clear about what my purpose is and that my decisions align with that purpose

·       Seek out advice before making my big decisions

·       Big decisions shouldn’t be dropped into small decision processes

·       Trust that if I’ve followed the right steps that I can be confident to execute on my big decision

·       I will take time and think about what big decisions I will need to make in the future

Start today, thinking about what big decisions you need to make for your future. Listen for change queues like; life could be better, or I’m not growing in my role, or life’s enjoyment has lessened, or I need new relationships and connections.

My 3 Questions for you:

·       Does your big decision align with your purpose?

·       What is stopping you from moving forward with your big decision?

·       How can you prepare for big decisions that are not planned?

 “Life is a matter of choices, and every choice you make makes you.” —John C. Maxwell

If you need help in navigating your big decisions, or if there is something you have questions about, please talk to me.

Remember daily to, “Find value in your influence”