None of us looks forward to making a tough decision. On a day-to-day basis, we make so many choices, and as healthcare professionals, those choices have consequences. What if we make the wrong choice?
It’s easy to feel decision fatigue, or want to avoid experiencing uncertainty. But what if we practice making smaller decisions, like taking a different route home? This sort of activity helps build confidence in our ability to make choices and understand the consequences. We can even practice living with bigger decisions for a day or so before we make them.
Sometimes, biases creep into our decision-making. We pick up faulty data from our past experiences, or assume that what happened in the past will happen the same way again. When we notice these biases, we can label them and try to think differently.
When we stop making decisions – or just take the easiest route – we can end up with rigid thinking patterns, which can leave us stuck and unable to move forwards for fear of making a mistake. This fear can stop us taking action and can limit our opportunities.
This week, Rachel is joined by Dr Claire Plumbly, who offers practical advice to help you make decisions from a place of stability.
if you’re struggling with a big decision, reach out to someone you trust. You don’t need to ask for their advice – and you certainly don’t have to take it. But talking it out can help clarify your thoughts and give you the confidence to act.
