Are You Cornering Yourself into Limited Options?
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In this episode, I teach you how to be on the lookout for false decision points so that they don’t limit your potential.
False decision points are when you feel cornered into making a decision.
They are false because in fact, you may have misidentified the root problem that needs to be addressed, or because you have not evaluated all of your options.
Even the most mentally strong, motivated and open-minded people can fall victim to false decision points in their life.
It happens because we crave certainty. And making a decision (even if we haven’t done the work to be confident it’s the best choice) often leads people to believe they have regained some of that certainty they desire.
Admittingly, it’s hard to recognize your own false decision points, but these indicators can help.
False decision points commonly arise when:
You're considering a promotion
You feel a lack of creativity or growth
You're under a significant amount of stress
Personal and professional goals conflict
How to recognize false decision points:
“But that’s not possible because…”
“Always” & “Never” statements
“This is just how it is…”
“I don’t have any other options.”
Below is a list of common false decision points people encounter related to career decisions. These are all real examples I have heard from people that come to the conclusion (too soon) that the answer to their work stress is leaving their job.
You may not be considering leaving your job, but some of these examples may resonate with your thoughts about your situation.
Do any of these examples that sound familiar to your own concerns?
I don’t have enough time. I’m too busy and I’m always stressed. I don’t have time to spend with people I love or to do things that are important to me.
False decision point: Therefore, I need to quit my job since it eats up most of my time.
I don’t have enough money. I wish I was saving more and had more flexibility in my budget.
False decision point: I need to get a new job if that’s ever going to happen.
I am stressed and anxious almost all the time. My life isn’t where I thought it would be at this point. The future is unclear, and I need to make a change to relieve some of this stress.
False decision point: My job is a big source of stress and anxiety in my life. I should find a less stressful job.
I don’t have any creative outlet. I thought that having a good-paying, professional job would be enough to make me feel satisfied in my work. But now I’m not sure that’s true.
False decision point: I think I should leave my job and start my own business. That would give me the creative opportunities I’m craving.
One way to practice overcoming false decision points is by flexing your creative problem-solving muscles. For any false decision points you recognize in yourself, replace the conclusion you immediately think of with at least three alternative options.
For example:
“I don’t have enough time. I’m too busy and I’m always stressed. I don’t have time to spend with people I love or to do things that are important to me.”
Could I outsource certain tasks/responsibilities?
Are there any commitments outside of work I could pause, or stop completely until I find more balance?
Could I negotiate flexible work hours that would allow me to be home when my kids get home from school?
P.S. One of the most helpful ways I’ve overcome false decision points in my own life is through working with coaches and professionals that helped me think bigger than I could alone.
If this sounds like something you’d benefit from in your life, career coaching is a great thing to explore! If you want to learn more about how career coaching can help you develop clarity, confidence, and success, reach out to set up a free consultation call!
