How to Make the Best Decisions for Your Life

We’re at the end of the year, which means its time to start thinking about new year’s resolutions. But before you set your resolutions on paper, take a moment to think about how you’ve been making life decisions recently and reflect on whether you are happy with your decision-making process. The thing is, there’s always room to improve the way we make choices and the start of a new year seems like the perfect time to think about how you can make better life decisions.

As with many things in life, this is easier said than done, but it’s something that can be done and accomplished. It takes time, effort, and awareness, and there are no promises you will get it right all the time, but you will be getting it right more times. Here’s how you can work towards making better life decisions.

Be honest with yourself.

Do you really want this or that, or do you only think you want it? When you are making important choices, it’s essential that you know where you stand, that you are aware about what you really want, and that you are honest with yourself about those wishes. Being conscious of what you want and of your current situation will help you in looking at things the way they are before making any life-changing decisions.

Think with your head, not your heart.

When making big decisions, it’s vital that you are in the right emotional state. Being too happy, too excited, too sad, too stressed, too tired, or too anything will hinder you from looking at things the right way. Make sure you give yourself some time to think things through and run them by your head, if they make sense, then ask your heart (and follow your gut). Life decisions can’t be a matter of “just because”; if you can’t find a worthy reason for doing something, then don’t.

Forgive and trust yourself.

You will screw up. Everyone will; no one is perfect. Learn to forgive yourself and more importantly trust yourself. You have to trust that you are making the right decisions for yourself, that you have your own best interest at heart. It’s natural that you second-guess yourself, but don’t let that stop you from making decisions.

Ask for advice but trust your instincts.
Talking to someone always helps in putting things in perspective. Getting someone else’s opinion or advice will probably lead you to think about and consider things and aspects you hadn’t previously thought of. Asking for advice doesn’t mean you always have to follow it. Be open to listening to differing thoughts and opinions, take more time to think your decision through, and trust your gut–even if this sometimes means going against what people say. You can ask family members, friends, or even your workspace community.