If we look at the etymology of the word decision it means “to cut off”. Sounds painful, doesn’t it? As it should because we all know that a decision has a consequence associated with it, and some can be painful. And as I have often noted our brains are wired for avoidance of pain (number 1 motivator) and pursuit of pleasure (number 2 motivator), and herein is the problem with decision making.
In some cases we fail to make the best decision because we imagine a painful outcome. This decision is often based upon our previous roadmap of experiences, or even the experiences of others and their roadmaps.
In other cases we make a decision based upon the perception of a pleasurable outcome. We may focus on just the one aspect of the consequence that will be pleasurable while neglecting multiple other negative consequences.
So how to make better decisions? Here are a few ways.
Don’t make them solely based on your own thoughts and feelings, especially feelings. Ask for guidance. Gather more information. Take as much time as is needed to decide; rash decisions often have bad consequences. Listen to your inner voice. Pray and meditate on the matter.
You can be bit by a shark or be as happy as a clam.
