Mastering Decision Making: A Guide to Feeling Your Way to Better Choices
Dr Victoria Stakelum
Success Psychologist | International Mindset Coach | Author | Speaker | NLP Master | Leadership & Business Strategy Consultant | Executive Coach to Top Leaders
Let’s be honest - decision-making can be overwhelming.
Whether it's a big career move, a relationship choice, or even what to have for dinner (because, let’s face it, that can be tough too!), we often get stuck in analysis paralysis. The more we overthink, the harder it gets to make a move.
But what if there was a way to make choices that actually felt right?
A way to bypass endless lists of pros and cons and instead tap into something deeper - your intuition?
That’s where the 24-hour decision-making technique comes in. Let’s dive in.
The 24-Hour Decision-Making Technique
This simple yet powerful method is all about commitment - but just for a day.
The idea?
Pick one option and fully embrace it for 24 hours. Live as if you’ve already made the decision and notice how it feels.
For example, if you're considering a career change, act like you've already handed in your notice.
Imagine waking up in your new role, interacting with colleagues, tackling the challenges - what’s your gut telling you? Do you feel excited, relieved, or maybe a little anxious? Pay attention to your emotions, physical sensations, even your sleep patterns.
Our bodies have a way of knowing things before our minds catch up.
If you feel lighter, more at ease, or even a little scared (but in an exciting way), that’s a sign you're onto something. If you feel tense, drained, or just “off,” that’s worth noting too.
Flip the Script: Try the Alternate Path
After 24 hours, switch gears.
Fully commit to the other option for a day. Again, immerse yourself—mentally and emotionally - as if this is your new reality. How does it compare to the first choice?
This isn’t just about seeing which option feels better - it’s about noticing which one aligns with you. Sometimes, the answer isn’t in logic alone but in how a choice makes you feel deep down.
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What You’ll Learn in the Process
This technique isn’t just about making a decision - it’s about self-discovery. When you actively feel your way through both choices, you gain insights that no pros-and-cons list could ever give you.
Ever tossed a coin and, in that split second before it lands, secretly hoped for one outcome?
That’s your answer revealing itself.
The 24-hour technique works in a similar way - except instead of a few seconds, you give yourself a full day with each option.
Final Thoughts
Decisions don’t have to feel like a battle between your head and heart. The key is learning to trust your emotions and instincts.
The 24-hour technique gives you the space to explore both options in a real, tangible way, making it easier to see which path truly fits.
So next time you're stuck in indecision, try this method. You might be surprised at just how much clarity you gain - not by thinking harder, but by feeling your way to the right choice.
I hope you find this helpful in your decision making process.
All the best,
Victoria
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