The Art of Making Decisions

One thing we constantly have to do in our lives is make decisions; from deciding what to wear, how to fix our hair, what to eat for breakfast to more important decisions, like what are we going to do with our lives, what college are we going to attend, which career are we going to pursue, how will we accomplish our goals and dreams. We have to learn the art of decision-making. Decision making skills are also a key component of time management skills.

To become proficient in this decision-making process, we should consider the following:

1. Quiet the Mind: Let’s find the time for “quiet time,” to pay attention to our thoughts, to listen to our spirit (what Elizabeth Lesser called in her book “The Seeker’s Guide” – our inner angel). Learn to listen to the wisdom of your heart, your spirit and your body – for a deeper understanding about how to live your best life. Find time for silence, reflection and prayer. Find time for God. Get in touch with your inner feelings and emotions. Learn to be calm amidst confusion and chaos.

2. Open your Heart and Mind: Learn to forgive yourself for being human, and forgive your parents, teachers, bosses, relatives, friends and others for also being human. Remember that no one is perfect. Connect with others with an open mind and an open heart – we all need others to encourage us and to teach us many lessons (yes! we learn something from everyone).

3. Know your Needs and Wants: Needs are different than Wants. Try to discover what you really need in your life to make you feel happy and at peace; and also try to find out what you really want in your life, the important “wants,” while recognizing the difference between your needs and your wants. Get in touch with what you really love to do and take in consideration your values, your talents, your goals and your dreams. Set priorities, and above all, want good things for yourself! Remember that your thoughts, intentions and actions are important to create your life.

4. Be Considerate, Empathetic and Respectful: When making decisions in your life you should always consider how they affect others. Learn to be more understanding, sensitive to and aware of the feelings of others. Our actions, no matter what these are, have repercussions. Major decisions will have an impact, not only in your life, but also in the life of those persons who love you and care about you. Not taking others in consideration is a sign of selfishness and arrogance. Act responsibly and respect them!

5. Develop a Healthy Self-Esteem: You are stronger than you think! You have the ability to work on your self-confidence and your self-esteem by improving yourself, developing self-awareness, learning new skills, becoming a responsible person, keeping a positive outlook on life, achieving success (your definition of success) in many areas of your life, and learning not to take things so personally and so seriously. Keep in mind that we all make mistakes, so don’t judge yourself and others so harshly – just learn from your mistakes and always do your best!

Ultimately, you are the only one responsible for your life. Learn to make the right decisions, and make your life HAPPY - while finding balance, meaning and fulfillment, no matter what! It's really all UP TO YOU! Don't keep finding excuses... Don't keep blaming others for your downfalls... Even when you encounter difficult circumstances and lessons in your life, you have the inner resources to be strong, to remain positive and to know that "this too shall pass." You always have the power to accomplish great things! Check: www.teensselfhelp.com/Self-Esteem.html.