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Posted On Nov 18, 2015

Updated On Jun 25, 2025

Get Unstuck And Make That Decision With Confidence

Wellness Wisdom

Originally contributed by Gwen Pettit, PT, PCC, MA, MS

When I get stalled on a project or task it's usually because I don't want to make a decision. My perfectionism becomes my worst enemy. I am the type of person who wants to get everything right and for everything to turn out "perfect," and so I put off making a decision for fear of making the wrong decision. That is what slows me down, and if I stop to examine things a little differently it can help me get out of "the stall."

When it comes to making a difficult decision sometimes it can be best to ask yourself: "What happens if I do nothing?" The honest answer should be enough to ground you into reality and move you towards making a decision and taking action. So, how do you make decisions in the face of complex choices? Consider these four questions to simplify the process and make a decision with confidence:

  • What do I want?
  • How badly do I want it?
  • What resources do I need?
  • What are the consequences if I do nothing? 


This process will help you focus on your desired outcome, prioritize possibilities, and prepare you to take action. Research shows that linking motivation to action, or having a specific goal, creates more success for people.


- What do I want?
Before you decide to take any action, it helps to consider which option is most attractive to you.

If your answer is "I want more free time," consider why you want it. How would having more free time on your schedule make you feel? Be specific on how much free time you need and when in the day you want it. What would you do in your free time that you are not able to do right now?


- How badly do I want it?
Start by listing all of the activities that you are currently involved in. To get more free time, what will you have to give up? Think of some things on your schedule that you would be willing to do less of or drop altogether. What could you drop or pass to others? 


- What resources do I need?
Could you ask other people for help or delegate some tasks to them? Consider what skills, tools or training would help you to be most effective.


- What are the consequences if I do nothing? 
Take the time to reflect on the consequences of your decision as well as the consequences of doing nothing.

How will you feel if, in three months, your schedule stays as busy as it is now?

What are you currently missing out on?


Once you land on your decision you need to take action to make it happen. Small steps taken every day will support your decision and keep you motivated. If you want more free time you will continue to focus on what you need to do to achieve that.

Share your decision with friends and those who will help support your choices. Consider finding a coach to help you stay on track, evaluate your patterns, and stick to your plan.