Making Decisions: Should I Stay or Should I Go?
Mercy Mairu Githanji, ICF- Certified Professional Coach
Global Transition and Leadership Coach & Event Planner Extraordinaire
Good people! I am sincerely hoping you have been keeping safe, especially in these unprecedented times when Mother-earth seems to be tired of ‘mothering’ her ungrateful spawn.
Has any of you been battling with decisions like me? Are you starting to hear a different drum beat, but you are afraid of following/ dancing to it?
Have you heard the quote “If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music he hears, however measured or far away.”―?Henry David Thoreau
I have spent time trying to listen to the drum beating for me- sometimes I think I have heard it so clearly, other times it's silent, and other times I think it's completely different. That’s me- anyone else going through the same? ?Take heart- it's just life happening.
Life is a series of tough decisions. Like the classic Clash song suggests, we often find ourselves pondering: Should I stay or should I go? This question echoes in various aspects of our lives, be it our careers, relationships, or living situations.
But unlike a catchy song, this question doesn't always offer a clear resolution. It can linger, repeating in our minds without a decisive answer. So, how can we break free from this mental loop and make choices with clarity and purpose?
Imagine your life as a house, with each commitment, relationship, and role as a room within it. The key to wisdom lies in assessing these rooms thoughtfully. How does it feel to be in each one? Comfortable? Unsettling? Neutral?
Sometimes, the decision isn't straightforward. It might be painful to acknowledge when a room no longer serves us, especially if it once felt like home. Other times, it's confusing; we might feel comfortable in a room that no longer aligns with our values or growth trajectory.
To navigate these complexities, we can borrow a concept from James Clear's "Atomic Habits" - pointing and calling. This practice fosters self-awareness during times of change. By honestly assessing our surroundings, we can pinpoint what's working and what isn't.
Understanding the nature of our departures is crucial. Whether it's anticipated, forced, or chosen, each type of exit presents its unique challenges and growth opportunities.
Above all, remember your path. Reflect on your spiritual personality and core values - they serve as guideposts illuminating your journey. By staying true to yourself, you can make decisions aligned with your authentic self.
In the end, whether you choose to stay or leave a room, trust in your ability to navigate transitions with grace and wisdom.
What rooms are you currently in, and how are they shaping your journey?
If you need support navigating them, you know where to find me!
#DecisionMaking #SelfAwareness #LifeTransitions #PersonalDevelopment
Program Management | Project Management | International Development | Institutional Strengthening | Devolution | Governance | Legislative Development | Policy Analysis | Stakeholder Management |
6 个月Staying or leaving is always a difficult decision. What has helped me make these decisions is asking myself the why question. More often than not it is because of comfort, “the devil you know” etc. However, on the other side of these fears lies great opportunities so once you know the why, I find making these decisions easier. It always works out in the end.
Global Transition and Leadership Coach & Event Planner Extraordinaire
6 个月Appreciated Francis! We shouldn't stay just because....but we shouldn't also leave just because....??
Democracy & Governance, Leadership & Public Administration .
6 个月Interesting…. When the room no longer aligns with our values, principles and growth trajectory?…It’s time to go!
Strategy Lead @ SoCha, LLC | Program Management, Consulting
6 个月This is so insightful, Mercy. Keep writing and coaching!