Decision-Making at The Soul Level
In life, the power to decide is both a gift and a challenge. The ability to make choices, big or small shapes our destinies and defines our paths. As I reflect on my recent journey of deciding to decide, I am reminded of the transformative impact that embracing choices can have on our lives. In this blog post, we will delve into the intricate dance of decision-making, exploring themes such as risk-taking, meta-decisions, self-control versus following your gut, decision fatigue, the "decide once" principle, and the fear of consequences.
The Turning Point
Not long ago, I found myself at a crossroads regarding my coaching practice, caught in the web of excuses and decision fatigue that had woven themselves into my daily life. These excuses were a shield against change, a barricade preventing me from pursuing what truly sparked joy within me – working with young adults, their parents, and teachers to shift the system. Previously, I had made up excuses… “Schools aren’t set up for this, don’t want it, won't pay for it, etc.”
The turning point came when I decided to decide – when I found the confidence to break free from my self-imposed limitations and embrace the unknown. It was a meta decision, a choice to make choices, setting the stage for a cascade of transformative experiences. By choosing to follow my heart, I uncovered new opportunities that had remained obscured by my own excuses which is also a testament to we don’t always know everything.
Risk-Taking and Fear of Consequences
Decision-making often involves an element of risk-taking. The fear of consequences can be paralyzing, but it's essential to recognize that living with the consequences of making the wrong decision is a part of the human experience. Instead of succumbing to fear, we need to learn to view consequences as opportunities for growth and learning, understanding that every choice, right or wrong, contributes to the narrative of our lives.
Even a “bad” decision can get us closer to our higher self.
The "Decide Once" Principle
The modern world bombards us with choices often leading to decision fatigue and choosing the path of least resistance. The "decide once" principle offers help. By making key decisions once, we can streamline our lives and conserve mental energy for more meaningful choices. This principle has proven to be a compass, guiding me through the maze of daily decisions and allowing me to focus on what truly matters.
It can be especially useful for minor things that are repetitive in our daily lives, for example, what to have for lunch, what to wear, where to shop, and when to do our laundry. By taking those minor decisions of our daily agenda we free up not only time but energy and head space.
Self-Control vs. Following Your Gut
Balancing self-control and intuition is a crucial aspect of deciding to decide when it comes to big life decisions. While self-control provides a rational framework, following your gut often leads to authentic and fulfilling experiences. For me, the most powerful, life-altering decisions have come from a place of being and not from self-control and fear.
Rethinking Decisions & Embracing Change
One more very important point is the importance of allowing ourselves to rethink our decisions. The journey of deciding to decide involves a willingness to adapt and evolve. Embracing change becomes a conscious choice, a recognition that growth often resides outside our comfort zones. As I navigated the terrain of my own decisions, I discovered the liberating power of accepting change as an integral part of the decision-making process.
How Conscious Decision-Making Gets You Closer to Your Higher Self
Decision-making is not just about choosing between paths; it's a reflection of who we are at our core—our beliefs, values, and dreams. It’s deciding on the soul level. Decisions act as a mirror, revealing our evolving self-awareness and understanding of the world. When our choices resonate with our higher self, that part of us anchored in wisdom and authenticity, we feel a deep sense of alignment and purpose. In those moments of conscious decision-making, the line between the ordinary and the higher consciousness blurs, bringing us closer to the radiant core of our being.
Your Decision-Making Practice
One effective practice to elevate your decision-making process is to maintain a Decision Journal. Here's a simple guide to get you started:
Write down your core values. What principles guide your life? What matters most to you? Understanding your values provides a solid foundation for making decisions that align with your authentic self.
Outline your short-term and long-term goals. What are you aiming to achieve? How do your decisions contribute to these goals? This step helps you prioritize decisions that propel you toward your higher self.
For each decision you face, list out the available options. Be comprehensive and open-minded during this process. Consider the potential impact of each choice on your values and goals.
Reflect on Consequences. What are the short-term and long-term outcomes? Reflecting on consequences allows you to anticipate how your decisions align with your values and goals.
Take a moment to be present and to tune into your intuition. What does your gut feeling tell you about each option? Sometimes, your instincts can provide valuable insights that align with your higher self.
Based on your reflections, make a conscious decision. Choose the option that resonates most with your values, goals, and intuition. Trust yourself in this process, knowing that you've considered the various facets of the decision.
Document your decision in your Decision Journal. Include the reasoning behind your choice, the values and goals it aligns with, and any insights gained during the process.
Regularly revisit your Decision Journal. Reflect on the outcomes of your decisions and the lessons learned. This practice not only reinforces conscious decision-making but also provides a valuable record of your personal growth.
The Takeaway
Deciding to decide is a powerful act that propels us into the driver's seat of our lives. It involves confronting fears, challenging excuses, and embracing the ebb and flow of consequences. It’s about going deeper.
As I continue to witness the positive transformations in my life and those around me, I want to remind you that the journey of decision-making is not just about reaching a destination but about savoring the richness of the path itself. So, what conscious decisions will you make today to shape the canvas of your tomorrow?