How to Start Trusting Your Own Decisions

You know that feeling?

The one you get when you’re about to make a decision.

You think you know what you want…

And then you find yourself asking:

“What if I make a mistake?”

“What will other people think?”

“What if I disappoint someone?”

“What if nobody agrees with what I choose?”

You may get knots in your stomach or a lump in your throat. Your heart or your thoughts might start to race.

The self-doubt starts creeping in. You second-guess yourself. You call your best friend. You ask your neighbor, your hair stylist, your therapist what you should do.

Here’s what I want to offer:

  • There are no right or wrong decisions.

  • No one is living this life except you.

  • You are not responsible for other people’s feelings.

  • It’s okay for other people to disagree with your choices.

Small steps you can take:

  1. Start with small decisions with low stakes like what to make for dinner or what book to read next. Don’t overthink it. Don’t consult with anyone. Just choose and then celebrate yourself for making a decision on your own.

  2. Ask yourself what you would choose if you knew everyone would approve. This is good information to have and will help you get in touch with what it is you actually want, not what you think you deserve or should choose.

  3. Remind yourself that you are allowed to have wants and needs and other people may not understand or agree. You don’t have to explain or justify yourself. Stand by your decision and give yourself grace throughout the process.

If you would like support around making decisions, or any other area of life, you can find out more about how life coaching can help here.

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