Being faced with a difficult decision is something most people find uncomfortable. Being an adult means that life is full of choices, some of which are harder to make than others. If you find yourself struggling with a challenging choice that you need to make, you may find yourself swaying back and forth on your decision-making and going around in circles. Struggling to make an important decision can feel like torture and can be all-consuming. You may find you have trouble eating, sleeping and concentrating on anything over than the decision you need to make. If your thoughts are currently going around in circles and you feel like you are not making any progress with your decision-making, you may find these tips helpful:
Talk Things Through
Some decisions weigh heavily on your mind, and the impact your final decision has could alter the direction your life is heading in. It is easy to see why these feelings can feel so overwhelming, especially if the after-effects of your decision will be challenging to process. Deciding to end a complicated relationship, opt for a surgical abortion, or expose a problematic secret, can all prompt some complex emotions that are challenging to manage. When you are making decisions on this scale that will have an impact on the direction of your life, it can be helpful to seek counselling. Speaking about your feelings with a professional counsellor can provide a safe space where you can talk about your emotions honestly and unpick complicated thoughts. Speaking to a trusted friend or relative can also help, but sometimes speaking to someone with a fresh, unbiased take on the situation can be more helpful.
Think About the Future
Regret is a powerful feeling and one that can be hard to shake. So, when you are weighing up a difficult decision, you may find it helpful to put yourself in the position of your future self. Thinking about which decision will likely cause you the most regret in the future can often help you confirm what you already know. No one wants to live a life full of regret and missed opportunities, so thinking about yourself in five, ten, or even 20 years from now and considering what you would regret most can provide you with valuable insights.
Give Yourself Some Space
If your thoughts are going round in circles but you are not getting anywhere, sometimes the best thing to do is to give yourself some space. Allowing yourself time to step away from thinking about your choices provides a valuable distance from your situation, enabling you to hit the pause button and stop your thoughts from controlling you for a little while. Getting a change of scenery, heading out into the fresh air, or simply allowing yourself to try and get some sleep can all be a big help. Giving yourself this break from your constant thoughts can help you reconnect with your instincts, and you may find that the decision comes to you naturally.
