6 Ways to Become More Decisive

If you regularly struggle with indecision, you've likely noticed just how many choices need to be made throughout the day, and how much not making them is holding you back.

You might procrastinate frequently, feeling unable to finish anything because so many options are involved. When even simple decisions start to feel overwhelming, it's easy to stagnate in your personal life, as well as at school or work. Regardless, choices do need to be made and learning to be more decisive is a key factor in moving forward, pursuing what you want out of life with confidence and awareness. We have some tips on how to get started below.

Let Yourself Make Snap Decisions About Little Things

Making decisions can be like building a muscle, as the more you do it, the stronger your abilities become. It's all about practice, and we recommend starting with tiny decisions that don't have any major consequences. Just go with your gut and make a snap decision about low-stakes choices like food orders, outfit choices for casual hangouts or what movie you're going to watch next. Not worrying about making the "right" decision every time can make you feel less pressured and choosing easier—especially when there will be second, third and fourth chances to try again and go for something different next time.

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Be as Informed as Possible Before Making Big Decisions

Obviously, not all decisions will be the tiny ones you can just choose arbitrarily. For the rest, we suggest being as informed as possible before you way in. First, outline the possible choices, and see if there any bad ones you can eliminate right off the bat. From there, weigh the pros and cons of each one, considering how they'll affect you and others. Decide whether these outcomes align with your personal goals, both in the short and the long term, and be prepared for the results of your decision. Talk things through someone you trust and respect if that's helpful, but don't push the burden of the decision on them, either. Sometimes, a deeper understanding of the problem doesn't just help you make better choices, but also helps you feel more confident about the conclusion you've drawn.

 

Also read about: 14 Truths You'll Relate to If You Struggle With Indecisiveness

 

Be Open to Change Once You Make a Decision

Remember that, while some choices are permanent, others are much more flexible, and just because you've made a decision about it doesn't mean that it's set in stone. In these cases, it's better to stay open-minded, rather than stubbornly sticking to your first choice, despite new information or new choices that might suddenly arise. When there's room to grow and learn, don't get stuck with a bad decision just because it's the one you made first.

 

Make Choices as a Form of Self-Care

Sometimes when we don't feel ready to deal with any consequences or change, indecision can feel like it protects us. On the contrary, we usually find that it can make us feel anxious or restless instead. Stewing in indecision can wear on your body and mind, making you question your abilities, while putting in the effort to make an informed decision takes that weight off of your shoulders. After all, no one can make better decisions for you than you. Make that healthy and helpful choice for yourself, and you'll quickly start to see the effects.

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Also read about: 8 Ways to Become More Detail-Oriented

 

Visualize the Power of Deciding

Try taking a moment to visualize your most decisive self. That's someone who's confident, self-assured and able to commit, without stressing over what could have been. Imagine yourself enjoying the benefits of your decision and deftly dealing with its other consequences. Chances are that you're not too far from this version of yourself who demonstrates leadership and responsibility with their good choices, while taking other peoples' thoughts and feelings into consideration. Take small steps toward being that person whenever you can, and embrace the self-belief that comes with it.

 

Don't Dwell on the Past

Once your decision has played out, it's best to accept it, whatever happens, and do what you can to move forward. Rather than getting stuck on any past mistakes and convincing yourself you'll only make more, focus on everything you learned from the situation. Understand that the next time, you'll be smarter, more informed and better prepared thanks to experience. Sure, you might make more mistakes, and that's okay. Be proud of yourself for deciding at all, let go of "what-if" scenarios and step into the future with confidence.

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Looking to hone more of your social skills? Click HERE to learn how to be less of a people-pleaser.