In our world today, there is so much information available to us on every subject imaginable. In addition to the traditional ways of accessing information–books, periodicals and networking–the internet gives us the ability to access information from around the world as well as the past and present. There are so many more choices available to us on just about any subject. This is both a blessing and a curse. The challenge becomes how to determine what is relevant, applicable and legitimate. Additionally, when faced with the need to make a choice, just how do you do it?
Recently, at one of my Bubble Goddess spa experiences, a client shared with me her dilemma over making a decision on behalf of her children. She took the “expert’s” advice but then questioned whether she’d made the right choice–these were her precious children that she was making decisions about. She and her husband weren’t sure if they’d done the “right thing.” I empathized with their dilemma. How do we decide what’s right when faced with so many choices?
It’s important to gather information–listen to what the “experts” have to say, maybe do some of our own research, and then look at our options. When it comes to making a decision, though, it’s important to pause and sit with the choices. We have to listen with our hearts to determine what really feels right for us and for those we love. Oftentimes, we are asked to make a quick decision. Unless we are faced with a life-threatening situation requiring immediate action, we can give ourselves permission to take time before making the decision.
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007, the medical professionals communicated to me that I needed to hurry and make decisions. I soon learned that I could take time to look at my options via traditional medicine, alternative and complimentary modalities. Many friends and family couldn’t understand why I wasn’t hurrying to get surgery scheduled. It was difficult for them to understand how important it was for me to pause and decide what was right for me. I am grateful that I did pause before proceeding. Today, I am at peace with the decisions I made. Yes, it was a lot of information to consider, many “experts” to listen to, but in the long run, the decisions I made were right for me and for my life.
When confronted with a choice, whether it be medical, personal or professional, it’s important to allow yourself time to gather information. If you desire, in addition to gathering expert opinions, discuss it with family, friends and colleagues you trust. Remember though, that ultimately the decision–whatever it may be–is yours.
As I empathized with my Bubble Goddess client, I shared with her that in my experience, it’s okay to tell an “expert” that you’ll get back to them. It’s okay to go home and pause. In the comfort of your own home, you can look at your choices, get input from loved ones, and then listen with your heart to what feels right for you. I also shared with her that no matter what decision we make, it’s imperative we let go of worry and fear about whether we’ve made the right choice. We must remember that whatever we’ve decided, we’ve done it with love and concern for ourselves and those we love. That’s the best any of us can do.
