Friday, September 13, 2013

My Decision Rant

Can't make up your mind?  I often second guess my decisions and feel like I need to validate its accuracy beforehand.  My introversion expresses this by not giving anyone feedback until I've thought it over and then doing so quietly.  Whether I am mulling it over by myself or with a friend, my mind wants to please myself, plus everyone else.  While I'm caught up in trivial worries, most people have made up their mind.  I'm not talking about work or big life decisions - those are easier than these small ones.  These are the inferior, daily decisions we face regarding the type of food you are going to eat, what you are going to plan to do after work, or what movie you are going to see.

I am logical, however I still hold on to the "what if I make the wrong choice" worry that I take forever in deciding if I want chicken or beef on my nachos.  Of course I'm striving for self happiness, but it is not worth the tedious thought process, especially if it impacts the plan of others.  It can be a complete waste of time waiting for someone for something so trivial.  People rely on other people and I cannot be so passive 100% of the time.  It is one thing to be introverted and to not contribute to a social situation, but to be this held back about making a small decision is a bit unhealthy.  Confidence is something achieved overtime, and it helps to have reassurance from others.  It makes it harder when I get negative feedback about something I've already decided.  If they are not directly involved in the situation, I try my hardest to ignore it!  I'm getting better at making decisions quicker and sticking with it.  I do a little happy dance when the outcome is positive!

So, what is a good salad ingredient to bring along for a party, or the correct choice for dinner tonight? (Yes, always thinking about food)  Is it right to dwell on these decisions?  I say not to an excessive degree, but I cannot help my worries.  What if no one takes a helping of baby corn for their salad?  Is this even a topping for salad?  I've seen these at select salad bars, but does anyone but me take some?  These are just some thoughts that roll around in my mind, but in the end it does not matter.  The baby corn was loved after all by at least 1/4 of the group.  Even if it was just me digging in to my own ingredient, at least there will be more for me.  Optimism is hard to keep up, but it ultimately helps in social situations.

So my gut reaction of baby corn for the salad party and beef nachos for dinner? YES!  Go with what you know and like!  The key is to stick with your interest and be confident in it.  There's a good chance that others will like your decision too.  Making a quick and accurate decision boosts future confidence and also leaves room for more fun in your free time.

You have to pick your battles with yourself because you do not want to get tripped up on whether you want to wear a polka dot or blue shirt today.  You'll be late for work!  Focus on what is most important in life and embrace it.