When the Pro/Con List Doesn’t Work

Guest Post by Theresa Cennicola

Have you ever struggled with an important decision? You’ve written your list of pros and cons, weighed all the factors, asked everyone you know for an opinion and yet you still can’t come to a decision? You’ve even prayed over the decision asking God to send you a sign but you don’t get any crystal clear answers.

That’s because you’re trying to make a decision using logic. You believe there is only one “right” choice and you are looking for something (or someone) to lead you in the right direction. You’re trying to approach a decision with a rational mind. Sounds like a good idea, right? Not always. Some decisions need to be made with the heart.

So how do you make an important decision with your heart and still respect yourself? Try this approach:

1. Make a list of all your possible choices. Then describe the potential outcome for each choice. Outline your two choices and list all the details that relate to each choice.
2. Now mentally choose one option—just one. Close your eyes and imagine that you have just made that decision.  Give yourself some time to really let the decision settle in so that you accept it as truth. Then write a letter to a trusted friend telling him/her that you made the decision and describe how you feel about it. (You don’t have to actually send the letter – just write it in your journal as if you intend to send it.)
3. Now mentally choose another option. (You may want to take a break for a few hours or even overnight before completing this step). Again, allow yourself to truly absorb the decision and believe it. Now write a letter to the same trusted friend and tell him/her how you feel about that decision.
4. If there are more than two possible choices, explore each option with a letter in your journal.
5. Now read the letters and search for words that describe your feelings. Note which letter contains the most positive and enthusiastic words. Read them aloud and listen carefully to determine which letter sounds more authentic. Which one feels better to you?

Anyone can make a list of pros and cons. Anyone can crunch numbers and evaluate risks. Anyone can examine the logical alternatives. But it takes real skill to tap into your inner wisdom, understand the true impact of your choices, and make an enlightened decision from the heart.

What are some of your most challenging decisions? Share your tips with us on how you make difficult decisions!

Theresa Ceniccola is The Christian Mompreneur—a Mentor to Moms Who are Running a Business that Supports Faith and Family. She empowers entrepreneurial moms to build profitable businesses with wisdom and grace through the Christian Mompreneur Mastermind program and her professional Marketing services, which include copywriting, marketing and strategy consulting and private coaching.

The Christian Mompreneur monthly ezine offers inspiration and support for the faith-filled business journey. If you are ready to go the distance in your business while remaining true to your values, sign up for a F.R.E.E. subscription at www.theresaceniccola.com.