Indecision stinks! So, why are we all afflicted with it?
Paul White's nationally distributed syndicated column, “Unleashing the power of the word...YET!” is published in 22 publications across seven states. This includes the following newspapers and digital publications: Midland Daily News (MI), SFGate (CA), Seattle PI (WA), Connecticut Post (CT), Laredo Morning Times (TX), Huron Daily Tribune (MI), The Telegraph (IL), and more. In this week's article, Paul shares tips on embracing a simple but profound three-letter word (yet) and how to become a Professional Hope Provider to others.
Indecision stinks! So, why are we all afflicted with it?
And we’re not just afflicted with indecision, we are all affected by our own, and other peoples, indecision every day of our life?
There’s an incredible song by Norah Jones entitled “Don’t Know Why” which is based on indecision that got me thinking deeply about this subject when I heard it recently. Indecisive, used as an adjective, is defined as unable to make decisions which in my mind is the equivalent of mental paralysis. Nothing gets solved. Nothing gets done. Absolutely nothing even happens. We’re stuck and can’t move.
Things can be crumbling all around us, and because of indecision, all we can do is watch it crumble down. Does it have to be that way? No, it doesn’t. In fact, we all possess the tools needed to remove and eliminate indecision from having any control over us.
Another way to think of indecision is “Analysis Paralysis.” Wikipedia definition: Analysis paralysis describes an individual or group process where overanalyzing or overthinking a situation can cause forward motion or decision-making to become "paralyzed", meaning that no solution or course of action is decided upon within a natural time frame. I agree. No solution… No course of action… means failure to achieve the desired outcome.
Indecision wins. We lose.
The cure requires action. Check out the following quotes that can inspire action: The worst decision is indecision.
Indecision, doubt, and fear…The members of this unholy trio are closely related; where one is found, the other two are close at hand. Indecision is fatal. It is better to make a wrong decision than build up a habit of indecision. If you’re wallowing in indecision, you certainly can’t act – and action is the basis of success. To be constantly changing one’s plans isn’t decision at all – it’s indecision. Indecision is a major time waster; 80% of decisions should be made the first time they come up. Through indecision, opportunity is often lost (often should be replaced by always). Is the picture becoming clearer here? Indecision has no value in our life. So how did it enter our life to begin with?
It all began with childhood training that involved weighing the pros and the cons and associating the consequences of acting on our decisions. Do you remember when you were a child, and you were instructed not to touch something? For many of us we interpreted that command as more of an invitation or dare. Weighing the pros and cons of NOT touching it, the pros didn’t offer any type of reward and the cons promised immediate attention. Who could resist attention (especially if you were a middle child) even if it was in the form of a reprimand. This is how we naturally learned about consequences and how they were associated with our decisions.
Having said that, consequences can be both good and bad. Webster’s defines consequence as that which naturally follows. It appears that allowing indecision to add time before action takes place tips the scales towards a less desirable outcome in the form of a negative consequence. Wait too long to ask your dream date to the prom? Someone else beats you to the punch. Can’t decide whether to apply for your dream job? Someone who took action gets hired instead of you. Can’t choose what to order? Waiter says he’ll come back when you’ve decided and takes the order from a table of 20 ahead of you.
Earlier in this article, I said we all possess the tools needed to remove and eliminate indecision from having any control over us. It’s a simple 2-step process. First, when weighing the pros and cons, focus on the pros. Remember, your mind goes to what you focus on and whatever you focus on increases.
Second, take action immediately. Remember when I mentioned earlier that Indecision is a major time waster; 80% of decisions should be made the first time they come up. It’s true and it works. Granted, I’m not suggesting being reckless…ever. That’s the other 20% of decisions which typically involve long-term committed relationships, financial planning and investment, major health decisions, and purchasing a home or vehicle. Those require careful thought and due diligence. But it’s important to know when to pull the take action trigger so you don’t become a victim of indecision even on the big life decisions. Always keep analysis paralysis in the time-out corner where it belongs.
Finally, we should never tell someone else what decision they should make even when their indecision is having an impact on us. If you’ve ever sold anything on eBay, craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace, you’ve probably experienced someone else’s indecision. A great rule of thumb is to instantly engage compassion, knowing how indecision is a path to nowhere and that compassion can at least help them with the internal struggle they’re experiencing.
Kindness also really helps the situation. A sincere dose of kindness may be just what the other person needs at that particular moment. Maybe their indecision was subconsciously intended so they could experience the very best character traits YOU have to offer someone else. A good consequence evolves because of your action and makes the world just a little bit better place for all of us. What joy!
Remember…I Believe In YOU! GiddyUp!
In addition to being a nationally syndicated columnist, Paul White is an author, motivational and inspirational speaker, entrepreneur, podcaster, and life coach located in Midland, Michigan. His new book, “The Answer Discovery – How to Change the World by Helping Others…and Ourselves,” is available to purchase today. If you’re interested in getting in touch with Paul, please submit an inquiry via our Contact Page.