Ep #80: It Felt Like a Kick in the Guts: Navigating Courage in Decision-Making

Is the situation actually complicated or is it really quite straightforward, but you're making it complicated because it requires a lot of courage to make the straightforward decision?

I read this question in an email from James Clear author of "Atomic Habits", and it struck a chord with me. So much so that I pushed back my original plans for this episode so I could discuss it with you today.

Straightforward vs Complex Decisions:
I think the best place to start is understanding the difference between complex and straightforward decisions. Straightforward decisions typically have a clear goal, the outcomes are well-defined, there are only a few factors to consider and there isn’t a lot of risk if things go wrong. Complex decisions have more ambiguous objectives, the goals can be conflicting, and you are faced with multiple unpredictable variables. Most of all the stakes are high.

What’s holding us back:
You also need to consider factors that might be affecting your perception of complexity. Having experience or knowledge around a decision can make it seem a lot simpler, whereas negative emotional states or external pressures may make it seem a lot more complex. We can also have biases in our minds that hold us back from effectively making decisions. Some of the most common ones I see affecting people are:

- Overthinking: Creating problems where none exist.

- Fear of making the wrong choice: Catastrophising unlikely outcomes.

- Analysis paralysis: Getting stuck in endless evaluation without action.

- Environmental and cultural influences: Workplace pressure and social norms.

- Cognitive load: Too many things going on in life can leave us without enough cognitive resources to make a decision.

Embracing Courage and Self-Assurance:
It is so important that we accept imperfect decisions. It’s impossible to always make the best choice in life, all we can do is move forward based on what we know. It is scary but if we focus on taking decisive action and staying adaptable, we can confidently navigate whatever comes our way.

The number one message I want you to take from this episode is that nobody is perfect and we shouldn’t want to be. The ups and downs of life are what make it great. They inspire us to grow and change and be more confident each day. So have a think about what decisions you’ve been putting off, and what it is that’s really been holding you back.

Until next time, stay courageous and trust yourself to make those bold decisions!