When you’re in the moment, facing a tough decision, it feels like everything hinges on that one choice. Which option is best? How do you know? What will you feel good about tomorrow? If you could wave a magic wand and see into the future, which path would lead you to happiness? It sounds serious and scary, but big decisions are actually kind of fun. They’re also surprisingly easy once you know how. Whether it’s buying a house or ending a relationship, making the right call is always about following your gut and listening to your inner voice.

Different people have different ways of making decisions: some use spreadsheets and pro/con lists; others consult an impartial friend; and still others lean on intuition alone. All those methods have their merits and can be useful in certain situations. But there’s also something to be said for trusting your instincts more than any logical thinking when it comes to trusting your instincts more than any logical thinking process when making important choices.

Know Thyself #

People who know themselves are able to make decisions that are in line with their values, desires and needs. They know what they’re looking for in a relationship, a job, a place to live, etc. They know their strengths and weaknesses, and they know what they want to do with their lives. Knowing yourself is a lifelong journey, and it’s also a practice — something you can get better at with practice. Here are a few ways to get started: Read up on psychology and behavioral science. Understand your personality type and learn about the traits that make you, you. Learn about your values, what makes you feel good and what you believe in. Journal your thoughts and feelings on a regular basis, and reflect on your life frequently.

Basics of Making a Decision #

The decision-making process is all about asking the right questions. For each decision that you face, you need to ask yourself: What do I want? What are my options? What are the pros and cons of each option? What other factors need to be considered? What do I want? This is the first and most important question you need to ask yourself. It will dictate how you approach the rest of the decision-making process. Whatever you decide, you need to know that it is right for you. You can still choose the right option even if it’s not perfect: you just need to know that is what you want.

What are my options? #

The next question to ask yourself is, “What are my options?” You need to be realistic here – you can’t solve a decision with an unrealistic option. For example, if you want to get a full-time job but can only find part-time work, you can’t solve that decision. What are the pros and cons of each option? Once you’ve identified your options, you need to evaluate them. What are the pros and cons of each option? What about each option appeals to you? What do you think would be challenging or difficult about each option? Thinking about the pluses and minuses of each option will help you clarify your thoughts and feelings about each one and help you make a more informed choice. What other factors need to be considered?

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, you also need to think about any external factors that might impact your decision. For example, if you are considering two jobs, you need to think about more than whether you like the work and the people you would be working with. You also need to think about things like hours, pay, the commute, and benefits.

Check In With Your Instincts #

As you’re going through the decision-making process, it can be helpful to pause and check in with your instincts. Remember, your instincts are your gut-level reactions to different situations and choices, and they are always right. They are also powerful, and can give you the clarity you need to make the right decision. To tap into your instincts, try a few different techniques, like journaling, meditating or taking a walk outside. If you journal regularly, you might journal out your thoughts about each option and see where it leads you. If you meditate, you can focus on your breath and let your thoughts come and go without holding onto them or getting caught up in them. If you go for a walk, you can focus on your surroundings and let your mind wander.

Wrapping Up #

Making decisions is a normal part of life, and you don’t have to stress out over every one of them. The best way to make a decision is to make sure you are clear on your goals and then look at your options. Consider the pros and cons of each option and remember to trust your instincts along the way. And don’t forget to celebrate when you make a decision and make a choice that you’re happy with. If you follow these steps and trust your instincts, you can’t go wrong with any decision. Sure, you might make mistakes now and then, but you’ll learn from your missteps, and they’ll make you wiser, stronger and more confident with every choice that you make.