How to Not Overthink a Hard Decision
When it comes to making a big life decision, there are many outside factors you have to consider. With all the pros and cons to weigh, it can feel downright impossible to decide if you should say goodbye to a relationship, quit a dead-end job, or start your own business. Everyone feels stuck at one time or another, and luckily, Lee Brochstein from Intersection M put together an eight-step guide you can use anytime you’re in this kind of bind. Her actionable advice will leave you feeling inspired to move forward in whichever direction you choose.
1. Decide to become unstuck. Taking the first step can be hard. Think long and hard about how you want to move forward and get inspired to meet your new goals. Mentally commit to making a change, whether it’s moving across the country or asking your boss for more responsibilities at work.
2. Make a list. Brochstein suggests using a list to acknowledge why you’re stuck, along with everything that’s keeping you from doing things differently. “On one side of the paper, list why you’re stuck. For instance, if you’re in a bad relationship, why can’t you leave? What’s holding you back?” On the other side, list what’s preventing you from becoming unstuck, and be honest with yourself, like, “I can’t leave because I would feel like a failure.” Brochstein says it’s so much easier to make progress when you can see what’s been holding you back.
3. Create your personal plan. “Once you have your list, take some time to put together a plan that’ll help you set yourself free,” Brochstein advises. “What do you need to do to make a change and feel good about it?” Though the solution might be anything from having a hard conversation to researching new careers, it’s up to you to decide when to put your plan in place.
4. Get out of your head. Sometimes, the easiest solution for becoming unstuck is simply stepping away from your decision for a little bit. Take a walk, sit at the park, or try out the new coffee shop on the corner. A change of scenery can do a lot of good!
5. Ask for help. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help! Brochstein says calling on friends, family, a therapist, or coach can be a total game changer when it comes to an issue that has you feeling stuck. People who care about you will be happy to offer their thoughts, suggestions, and resources to help you figure things out.
6. Stay true to your vision. “Vision boards might seem cliché, but they aren’t at all,” Brochstein says. “You’ll feel inspired to reach your end goal when you regularly see it.” So whether you draw it, write it, or create a collage with your personal goals, place your vision board wherever you can get a good look at it every day. Let it motivate you.
7. Set reachable goals. In order to become unstuck, you need to strive for realistic and reachable goals. “This might be as simple as, ‘ I’m going to have a conversation with my boss about how unhappy I feel’ or ‘I’m going to start looking for apartments in my dream city today.’” You’ll feel great about taking action. Rome wasn’t built in a day, after all.
8. Keep moving forward. You have your vision, made your list, created a plan, and sourced wisdom from the people you admire. Now it’s time to take that first step. Will you feel a rush of emotion? It’s totally possible. You’re about to make a real change! Acknowledge that feeling, and keep moving forward, Brochstein says. “The further you go, the easier it’ll become.” You’ve got this!
Will you use these tips next time you’re feeling stuck? Tweet us @BritandCo and tell us how they helped you.
(Photos via Getty)
