the inspiration blog

Having too many choices brings unhappiness. So how to make a good decision? Here are a few methods.

1. Don’t rely on your mind – trust your body. When you need to make a decision, don’t let the mind spin in circles. Instead, take a deep breath into your body. Think about one option at a time, and notice how how you physically feel. If you’re relaxed and at ease, that’s a good sign. And if you get tight and constricted, that’s probably not the best path.
2. Trust your own ability to choose correctly. Don’t let self-doubt plague you. Yes, there’s room for reassessment at various stages, so just go for it.
3. Ask how much it matters. When I was young and had a hard time deciding on what to eat or such, my mom asked me how much it really mattered. Good point, Mom! If you can’t decide, perhaps both options will be fine. So, try one. See what happens. And adjust accordingly.

I’ve always liked having choices. What’s best? What would bring the most happiness?

But I can’t tell you how many times, when I was a little younger, that I would sit in a restaurant staring at the menu, trying to decide. In fact, when I found out I had some food allergies, it was a relief to have fewer dishes to choose from!

Research shows that having more options brings greater unhappiness, loneliness and depression. And yet, we live in a world of choice. From smart phones to online dating, there may be something better right around the corner – so why commit?

Next: how to choose.