FH Decision Making

Some decisions are easy,
Others are very hard,
But all decisions involve a change.

When we opt NOT to decide, this is also a decision

It means we are waiting for something or someone else to change

You and I are designed for making choices.

We have a conscious mind which gathers and sifts information, and which looks ahead to figure out the consequences of each choice.

We also have a deeper unconscious level, full of memories and feelings, which influences our decision-making by bringing into picture our intuitions, our dreams, our hopes, and also a sense of being guided by God.

If we can set aside a time for reflection, we can learn to listen to and trust the "still small voice within."

The two parts of ourselves (conscious and subconscious) may sometimes be in conflict, and it is on these occasions that deciding may become difficult.

One way to clarify the situation is to make out two lists:

First list: "What are the costs of this decision?"

Second list: "What are the benefits of this decision?"

It is through comparing these two lists that we can try and create a solution which carries the least pain for ourselves and others. There are few decisions which do not carry with them a portion of loss.

Decision making is like a balancing act.
In a group or family situation, our decision making styles can be quite different.

If a decision is made without much thinking, it may bring regret later on.

If the decision is made by one person only, resentment and poor support may arise from others affected in your group.

A decision which is made by consultation is one which takes more time, but which avoids later arguments. When all viewpoints are heard, there is a better chance of everyone being of one mind.

An individual’s internal decision-making can match the styles of deciding described in groups.

Our minds are like communities or families in a smaller sense, and this means that often we can find that we are having arguments within ourselves.

In making decisions:
* Do you rule yourself with a hard line?
* Do you take sudden impulsive plunges?
* Do you listen to the different view points going on inside your head?
* Good decisions involve several stages

Identify the problem.
* Consider the range of possible options you could take.
* Gather information, facts, feelings and consequences of the options.
* Choose the option which has costs which can be lived with, while meeting the most needs. Commit yourself to this option, and start testing it out.
* Put energy into making it work, while accepting the costs.
* Review the effects of the decision , and use what has been learned to make necessary changes, or maintain the progress.

With this success, continue to grow in wisdom and confidence.

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