Are You Making the Best Decisions?
CBNMoney.com In the summer of 1993, just as I was about to graduate from Florida State University, I made a decision that turned out to a very good one. Until about a year before I finished college, I was sure I wanted to be an international corporate attorney. I made that decision in the 10th grade, based on fairly limited information. My major was International Affairs, I grew up learning to speak German and Spanish, and law seemed a logical choice. But as I began to learn more about my planned career path, it just didn’t appeal to me as the best fit for my interests. So I decided to apply to a new graduate program in journalism at Florida A & M University, just a mile away from FSU. I was unsure of exactly what I wanted to do with a master’s in journalism, but excited by the possibilities.
The month before I was to begin the program, I began to waiver. “Maybe an MBA would be better,” I thought. “I’ll move back home to Denver and pursue that.” I was 20 years old. It was a major life decision and I was unsure of how to make it. I was packed and preparing to move when a letter arrived from Florida A & M University’s journalism school. They offered a full tuition scholarship and a graduate assistantship. I stood in the living room of my one-bedroom apartment filled with boxes packed and ready to ship to Colorado. “What should I do?” I wondered. Something in my spirit said, “Unpack and stay. It’s not time to leave Tallahassee yet.”
I believe it was divine intervention steering me onto my unique path. And as I look back on my decision, I realize that I had no idea just how that particular course of study would impact my career. From my work as a marketing director to running my own public relations firm, to writing books and columns, and serving as a host in radio and television, God clearly knew what kind of training would be best for the professional vision He had in store for me. And I am thankful that I listened.
Sometimes the decisions we make seem obvious, while at other times, our decisions can feel difficult and confusing. This week, I feel led to share 11 questions to help you make solid decisions – whether big or small – in your career, relationships, finances, and health.
Creating the life you want is really about the choices you make. In essence, if you can manage your decisions well, you will prosper professionally, personally, financially, and emotionally. Consider a decision you have been pondering and ask yourself these questions:
- Is now the time to make this decision?
Timing is key when it comes to good decisions. You must be willing to move when it’s time to move and be patient when it is time to be still. Pray and have the courage to wait for divine timing. Hasty decisions are often poor decisions. Clearly, some decisions must be made quickly, but you can still gather facts, consider your alternatives, pray, and make a good decision.
- What is the purpose of this decision?
“Why” you are doing something is the fuel that drives your decision. Make sure you are making decisions out of pure motives and be clear about why the decision needs to be made.
- What information do I need to make the decision?
One of the main causes of poor decision making is a lack of information. Do not be hasty in your decisions and make them before you have all of the facts you need to make a wise, informed decision. Take the time to gather information.
- What are my alternatives? Which is easiest? Which is best?
When you are ready to move forward, it can be tempting to zero in on one option without considering all of your options. Always ask yourself, “What options haven’t I considered?”
- What will each alternative cost me?
Weigh all of your options and compare them. Know what the cost will be to you – not just in terms of money, but time, energy, relationships, space, and other resources.
- What other factors are influencing my decision?
Be honest and recognize what factors are influencing your decision. Are you planning to buy a car or house mainly because you want to impress others? Are you in a particular career because others have pressured you? Some influences positively impact your decisions, while others move you away for your unique and divinely-ordained path.
- What do I feel in my spirit is the right decision for me?
You are not alone in your decision making. Pray and listen for divine guidance. Then muster up the courage to follow it.
- Who is the right person to assist me in my decision?
The book of proverbs promises, “In the multitude of counsel, there is safety.” Reach out to those who have the experience and background to help you make a wise decision.
- Does this decision move me closer to my vision or further from it?
When your daily decisions are aligned with your vision for your life, you create the life you truly want. In every decision, consider your vision and make sure your decisions further it.
- Is the decision aligned with my values?
The five values that are nearest to my heart are freedom, creativity, truth, beauty, and connection. In Listen to Your Life, I list many values and ask you to identify yours. Know what is important to you and make sure your decisions reflect those values.
- What would be the ideal scenario? What would it take to bring my ideal scenario to life?
It is often tempting to make decisions that cause you to “settle” for something less than God has in store. Be clear about your ideal scenario for any given situation and reflect on whether the decision you make will bring that ideal scenario to life. If not, perhaps it is time to consider an alternative or wait until a better opportunity presents itself.
My challenge to you this week:
Make a choice to start making deliberate decisions in your life.
Journaling assignment:
Consider a decision you need to make in your life right now. Journal through that decision with the questions in this week’s newsletter.
A sought-after life coach and speaker, Valorie Burton seeks to inspire people to live more fulfilling, less stressful lives. She is the author of Listen to Your Life, What’s Really Holding You Back?, Rich Minds, Rich Rewards, and her latest, Why Not You? 28 Days to Authentic Confidence.
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