There’s No Such Thing As “The Right Decision”

Dear Leaders and Dreamers,

This morning, as my partner and I strolled through the park, I asked her, “If you could be a bird, would you rather be an Eagle or a Hawk?” Lucy, knowing me well, sensed a hidden twist. “Does it matter? They are both birds; they just have different titles.” I high-fived her, and we continued our walk.

She was right. There was no correct answer to my question because, in either case, she didn’t know where she would fly. This simple truth often eludes us in our careers. As leaders and dreamers, our choices define us, but the outcomes are as mysterious as the flight paths of birds. It’s hard to believe in the concept of the “right” decision when the future is so uncertain.

We often face decisions with the same trepidation, letting fear guide us instead of our gut. Just last week a friend reached out to me, confused about which role to take after being offered two very exciting opportunities. Plagued by logic, they kept rationalising every option and were unsure which one was right.

Let's take a look at those options:

To me, this felt like choosing between being an Eagle or a Hawk but everyone looking at this list will see something different.

If we used logical decision-making patterns, we would likely rush to take Option A. Why? Bigger company, better pay, no need to relocate, great title. A cushy corner office doesn’t seem too far away, right? The logical decisions seems practical and safe and for the most part, provides a greater sense of security. As such, they are also decisions deeply disguised as “fear based decisions”. There is nothing wrong with choosing Option A except that it's not the “right decision.” Option A could also come with a hard and fast downturn in growth, greater demand on the role to cut costs and drive revenue, and much more pressure to exceed. If this happens, do you think my friend will still be confident they made the “right decision” using logic?

So, how can we use other factors—aka our gut—to help us build a better decision-making framework? For a lot of us, using our gut to help drive decisions does not come naturally. Let’s dive into the art of making fearless career decisions—because trust me, your gut knows best.

1. Recognise the Fear: The Nervous Butterfly Approach

First, let’s acknowledge the fear. It’s like a nervous butterfly flitting around in your stomach, whispering doubts. Instead of swatting it away, greet it. Say, “Hello, little butterfly. I see you, but I’m not letting you drive.” Recognize that fear is there to protect you, but it doesn’t have to control you.

2. Listen to Your Gut: The Belly Brain Phenomenon

Your gut is like a wise old friend who always has your back. When making a career decision, take a moment to listen to it. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and ask yourself what feels right. It’s like consulting an ancient oracle, except this one lives in your belly and prefers chocolate over incense.

3. Avoid Overthinking: The Hamster Wheel Trap

Overthinking is like a hamster on a wheel—lots of motion, but no progress. When you catch yourself spiralling into the land of “what-ifs” and “maybes,” take a deep breath. Trust that you’ve done your homework and that your gut instinct is valid. It’s like trusting the first answer you circled on a multiple-choice test. Usually, it’s the right one.

4. Embrace Uncertainty: The Mystery Novel Mindset

Think of your career as a mystery novel. If you knew every twist and turn, it wouldn’t be as exciting. Embrace the uncertainty and let your gut lead you through the plot. Sometimes, the best chapters are the ones you didn’t see coming. And remember, every good mystery has a satisfying resolution.

5. Visualise Success: The Daydream Believer Technique

Picture yourself thriving in your new role. Imagine the day-to-day, the challenges you’ll overcome, the growth you’ll experience. Let this positive vision guide you. It’s like daydreaming about your future, but with more purpose. Let your gut feelings paint the picture and trust in the journey.

6. Consult a Potato: The Unconventional Confidant (Reprise)

Alright, it doesn’t have to be a potato, but explaining your dilemma out loud to something non-judgmental can help. Your pet, a plant, or yes, even a potato, can serve as a sounding board. The act of verbalising your thoughts often clarifies your gut feelings. Plus, it’s an excellent way to practise your stand-up comedy routine.

7. Take the Leap: The Fearless Acrobat Move

Finally, make the decision. Trust your gut and take the leap. It’s like being an acrobat swinging from one trapeze to another. There’s a moment of exhilarating freefall, but trust that you’ll catch the next bar. Your gut is your safety net, always there to support you.

Career decisions made from fear often lead to regret. By trusting your gut, you make choices aligned with your true self. So, as you navigate your career, let your gut be your guide, your fear your motivator, and your courage the force that propels you forward.

With playful determination,

Nadia

Take Away: Career choices are like trying to decide between pancakes and waffles—sometimes there’s no wrong answer, just the one that makes your belly (and your heart) happiest.