What was the last big decision you had to make? Did you agonize over it or was it easy to decide what to do? The process of making decisions can feel like it’s an art form. In reality, making the best choice for yourself doesn’t have to be as difficult as you think.

Some decisions have more of an impact on your life than others, but it doesn’t require you to overly stress about it. If you are at a crossroad and have to decide, then it means something in your life will change. It can feel like the weight of the world is upon you and if you make the wrong decision, then you are doomed. This extra stress and worry can lead you to avoid the decision-making process.

Your decision to end a relationship or change jobs has an impact on your life, but you don’t have to stress yourself out trying to decide what to do. Here are a few proven tips that will help take the stress out of your next big decision.

Visualize your desired outcome

If you don’t have an idea of the results you are looking for it can be hard to start the process of obtaining it. For example, if you are considering ending a relationship begin by visualizing what you want the outcome to be. Ask yourself a few questions that can help you start to imagine your outcome.

Can you imagine what it would feel like to be loved the way you deserve to be? Do you see yourself happier because you are out of an unhealthy relationship? Maybe you want the freedom to pursue different interest or direction. Even if you can’t fully see your outcome, you have an idea of what you are looking for.

Make a pro/con list

Making a pro/con list is one of my favorite ways to help make decisions because it works. I find it helpful because it helps me separate my logical thinking and my emotional heart. I can only do this effectively when I write out the pros/cons. It helps me make the best long term decision instead of an easy quick fix.

For example, if you are considering a job change, write out the pros/cons of staying in your current job. Then write the pros/cons of leaving your job. As you review your answers using your logical self, see which one outweighs the other.

Reach out

An easy way to help decrease stress in making a tough decision is to reach out to a direct and honest friend. This person will be straight up with you and not tell you what you want to hear to spare your feelings.

They will tell you the hard truth you don’t want to hear. Take their feedback into consideration and be grateful to have a supportive friend. Do not expect them to decide for you, but they can be there to support you through the process.

Think about the last time you made a hard decision. At the time, you were probably worried, stressed, and unsure of making the right choice. Now you know it was the right decision for you and you can use this as evidence that you are capable of making great decisions.

You deserve happiness and are solely responsible for creating it. You are required to make the hard calls and decisions to get the life you are searching for. What are your favorite tips when it comes to decision making? Share them with me in the comment section.

Let’s work together