STRUGGLING WITH DECISIONS: CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS
Dear Readers,
One of the most common concerns I’ve encountered in recent years is decision-making difficulty—commonly known as indecision. This challenge can stem from various psychological and social reasons. For both young people and adults facing important life choices, indecision often brings feelings of failure, hopelessness, and being stuck. These emotions can negatively impact both personal success and social relationships.
What Causes Decision-Making Difficulties?
1. Fear of Failure or Loss: The fear of making the wrong decision and suffering a loss is one of the strongest obstacles. This fear damages self-confidence and pushes individuals away from taking action.
2. Parental Influence: Individuals who weren’t allowed to make their own choices as children often struggle to make independent decisions as adults. Without practice, they lack the experience to assess risks, consider pros and cons, and protect their personal boundaries.
3. Perfectionism: The desire to always make the “perfect” choice causes prolonged decision-making. From choosing a houseplant to selecting a university, perfectionists may research endlessly, consult everyone, and delay action—leading to anxiety and mental fatigue.
4. People-Pleasing: Trying to satisfy everyone can paralyze the decision process. When we aim to please multiple parties with different expectations, indecision feels like the safest escape.
5. Losing Sight of the Bigger Picture: When we drift from our long-term goals, we lose direction. This confusion leads to uncertainty, delaying or halting decision-making.
6. Lack of Self-Confidence: Low self-esteem can cause people to second-guess their decisions or backtrack frequently. They may appear indecisive or inconsistent.
7. Lack of Information: Without enough knowledge or clarity, making a decision becomes overwhelming. Some individuals rely heavily on others, delaying personal responsibility.
Practical Ways to Make Decisions More Easily
- Make Your Own Decisions: No one knows your needs and goals better than you. Trust yourself.
- Boost Your Confidence: Start with small decisions and build success. Gradually, your self-belief will grow.
- Accept Imperfection: Not everything is under our control. Mistakes are part of learning and growth.
- Acknowledge Your Fears: Talk or write about what you’re afraid of after the decision—it can make the outcome feel more manageable.
- Consider What You Might Miss: Think about the opportunities you might lose by delaying decisions. This can motivate you to act.
- Stop Justifying Your Indecision: Endlessly searching for the “perfect” answer can leave you behind. Don’t let your search become an excuse for inaction.
Dear readers, I hope you begin making decisions at the right time and in ways that serve you best.
Warmly,
Dr. Fatma Yeşilyurt
