Monday, February 27, 2012

How to decide which path to follow

How should we make timely wise decisions? These decisions will impact the rest of our lives. Keanu Reeves in The Matrix decided between the red or blue pill within minutes. Even though we would rather just choose a path without the hassle of planning, we shouldn’t be like Keanu Reeves.

My local church, Highland Baptist, brought this to my attention yesterday. I realized my planning process wasn’t as thorough as it probably needs to be.

It is an exciting time in our lives: graduating from college, making new friends, moving cities and finding a career. Here’s the advice I have in making a wise choices:

Follow your heart and faith

Where does your heart lie within the options?  It is an important step to figure out which option would fill your heart more.  If it is a new job, will it be a job that you are excited to wake up early for?  Pick the option you can feel confident in.  Don't forget to consult your faith.  Wise counsel from your friends of faith can produce a clearer picture, as well.

Consider family and friends

Feeling comfortable can reduce the anxiety of change.  Having at least one or two familiar faces close by can be a deciding factor.  Also, know their opinions.  Simply ask, "What would be a good option based upon what you know of me?"

Never say never

If you are leaning one way, don't let it affect your decision until after you complete this process.  It could sway your options and potentially lead you down the wrong path.  Carefully handle the "fork in the road" with logic and heart.

Weigh the pros and cons

Make a pros and cons list for each option.  This is extremely helpful in coming to a logical decision.  Sometimes it will lead you to extreme factors in a decision that you wouldn't have found otherwise. Writing it down will help to clear your mind.

Make a decision

Trust your research and thought process.  Go with the path you chose and don't look back.

Do you think it's important to define your life path before making decisions?  How are you handling life decisions?  I'd love to hear your thoughts!

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