Decide: 5 Ways to Stop Second Guessing Yourself

Making decisions can sometimes feel overwhelming. We find ourselves second-guessing and doubting, which only leads to confusion and frustration. However, it is possible to make confident decisions and put an end to this cycle of uncertainty. Here are five ways to stop second-guessing yourself and make decisions with confidence.

1. Test them against your values.

When faced with a decision, it’s essential to consider your values. Align your choices and ask yourself, “Which one of these options most honors the things that mean the most to me?” The decision that aligns with your core values will always be the best decision for you, even if it’s not the simplest or most practical. By basing your choices on what’s important to you, you can make decisions with confidence and clarity.

2. Trust your gut.

Intuition is a powerful tool when it comes to decision-making. Sometimes, we have a gut feeling about what the right choice is, even if it doesn’t seem logical or apparent. Just like Columbo, the detective from the classic TV show, trust your intuition. Rather than getting caught up in “what if’s” and over-analyzing, listen to your gut. Your intuition knows what it’s talking about and can guide you towards the right decision.

3. It just doesn’t matter.

Not every decision carries huge consequences. Sometimes, we tend to overthink and over-complicate things that don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. Stop second-guessing yourself and ask, “If my future happiness doesn’t depend on this decision, which way would I go?” Taking a step back and realizing that some choices have no significant impact can help you make decisions more easily and with less uncertainty.

4. Have enough information.

When faced with complex decisions, gather the facts before making a choice. Weigh the pros and cons and gain a deeper understanding of what’s behind each option. However, be cautious not to fall into the trap of seeking all possible information. There is a difference between knowing enough to make a decision and knowing everything. Ask yourself, “What do I really need to know to make this decision?” Focus on obtaining the best information relative to the situation rather than pursuing an exhaustive amount of data.

5. Respect your doubts.

It’s natural to have doubts, as they can help us prepare for change and anticipate potential challenges. However, it’s crucial to differentiate between valid doubts and the influence of our inner critic, often referred to as the “Gremlin.” The Gremlin tries to keep us stagnant and fear making decisions. By recognizing the difference between valid doubts and the manipulative voice of our Gremlin, we can gain clarity and make decisions based on what’s real and relevant.

In conclusion, second-guessing yourself can be exhausting and counterproductive. By implementing these five strategies, you can stop second-guessing and make decisions with confidence. Test your choices against your values, trust your gut, recognize when a decision doesn’t hold significant consequences, gather enough information, and respect your doubts. Embrace the power of decisive thinking and live a more confident, fulfilling life.