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Getting Over Indecisiveness

We constantly face decisions. From minor ones, like deciding which restaurant to eat at, to major ones, like buying that new car. For some people, making a choice is difficult. How do you overcome indecisiveness? Life coach Judy Siblin-Librach stopped by to break it down. Here's what she had to say.

What causes indecision?
People are indecisive because they don't fully trust themselves. They lack the confidence that they are going to make the right decision, so they do nothing at all. Remember: when your instincts are whispering, you should listen. And when they're belting it out to you, always follow them.

What are some common things people are indecisive about?
For parents, choosing the right school or camp for their children can be agony. Sometimes, for an important gala or social event, a woman can dither between two dresses. Then there's the hair and shoe dilemmas to consider. Decorating is a huge area of indecision -- even if you're choosing beige paint, you might find yourself faltering between the champagne, the ecru and winter wonderland white. Again, it's about not fully trusting your eye and your unique taste. Go to an expert and collect all the information you need, but the end, "just do it." What's the worst that could happen? If you choose ecru this time, you can always do champagne next year.

How do people act when they have decisions to make?
A common reaction is to over-research, ask too many people and procrastinate. People often procrastinate so they can avoid making a decision. We are all perfectionists and if we don't make a decision, we don't have to face the fear of imperfection. We also become so overly absorbed in the details of the task, which delay moving the project along until the last minute.

What impact does indecision have on people's lives?
Essentially, by being indecisive, we don't move at all and we are stuck. Taking any action is better than nothing. When people don't decide, they can become tormented, stressed, frustrated and agonized. Life is too short and when you have a positive attitude towards life, decision-making is far easier and less stressful.

What are some simple ways to make decisions?
1. Get rid of your mental blocks.
2. Give up the notion that there is only one right solution to the dilemma you are facing.
3. Don't be afraid to make a mistake.
4. Write down all the positives and negatives.
5. Know what your goals and values are, before making a major life decision. Ask yourself if the ideal outcome is in alignment with your values.
6. Always trust your instincts and your gut feeling.
7. Don't take your decision too seriously. Nothing is that important, no matter how much it appears like that to you. Ask yourself, will this really matter 10 years from now? And remember, no decision is irreversible. You can always make another one.
8. When you're really stuck, use the term "executive decision." Those words seem to help people feel they're acting in charge
9. Don't be afraid to take a risk. Sometimes, you just need to take a deep breath and jump.
10. Ask yourself: what' s the worst that can happen? Believe in yourself because you know inside yourself what the right course is every time. Just go to a quiet corner, create some stillness and you will get it right every time.