Regent University School of Udnergraduate Studies

Monday, April 26, 2010

Making Decisions

I don't know about you, but it seems like I have to make tons of decisions everyday. Not just run of the mill decisions either, like what type of jelly to use on my toast, or whether to drink orange or apple juice. No, I am talking life-changing, world-shaking, mountain-moving decisions. Well, after being accosted by these many epic decisions,I have begun to think... how do other people make decisions? 

How did you decide to come to Regent? How did you decide what major you were going to take? How did you decide on your employer? And most importantly, how did you decide on your current hair color?

I'll tell you how I arrive at decisions, but I still really want your input.

My formula is as follows:

  1. Anxiety. I have been a Christian for just under 20 years, so I know that anxiety is a no no. But if I'm being open and honest... it's how all decisions begin with me. My stomach hurts, I constantly think about the terms to the point of losing sleep, and it overtakes some of my conversations.  
  2. Acceptance. After dealing with all of the anxiety, I come to a point where I know I just need to make the decision, and then the terrible part comes....
  3. Lists.  I write lists. I am a list writer. It is a chronic disorder, but it certainly helps me make better decisions. At least, that's what I tell myself. I make pros and cons lists. I make budget lists (if the decision involves a financial change). I make lists about who I want to ask for advice. I make decisions about EVERYTHING!
  4. Pray. This is a little out of order. I actually do this step simultaneously with number one. I have anxiety, and I give it to God. Then, I have more anxiety and give it to God again. It's a vicious cycle. :) I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that God holds my life in His hands. I also know that I can trust His plan for my life. 
  5. Ask for Advice. I seek out the people whose advice I value the most. This includes old bosses, my parents, pastors and friends. I try not to stick with just one persons advice, even if it's what I want to hear. The purpose of getting advice is for a balanced non-biased view - not for the conformation for how you feel.
  6. Listen to myself. I listen to my "heart." If it's a bad idea - even if I go through all of the steps I know what I'm going to end up doing. 

So, this is my process! Now tell me, what do you do to make decisions?


1 comment:

Christen Allocco said...

Hi Tarisha!

I TOTALLY hear you on the list thing. I am such a lister!

If you take a look at my blog (christenlikeselephants.blogspot.com) you'll see that I have a ton of lists. Haha.

Be blessed, glad to see you're blogging again!

-Christen

The publisher/owner of this website, Tarisha Mickel, is solely responsible for decisions regarding site content. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of Regent University and Regent University assumes no liability for any material appearing herein.