Making Good Decisions

By: Angela Englander August 20, 2015

In order for someone to make a good decision they need to incorporate both logical information and emotional information. This means knowing what emotions we are feeling, what emotions come up when making this decision, and how the outcome of the decision will affect us, and what factors are contributing to the decision. You can use the pro’s and con’s chart http://waystowellbeing.ca/pros-and-cons-of-living-the-life-you-want/ to help you figure out the logical factors contributing to the decision and the emotions chart and primary and secondary emotions sheet to help you figure out what emotions you may be experiencing at this link http://waystowellbeing.ca/links-resources/ The following chart can be used to help you figure out what the best decision to make in any circumstance is.

Emotion Facts Best Decision

An example of making a decision through using this chart may look like the following:

I am trying to decide whether to go on a second date with a person I just met. This decision has been confusing and frustrating so I’m going to make an emotions chart to help me figure out whether I should go on the date or not.

Emotion Facts Best Decision I felt anxious on the first date We laughed and the discussion made me feel relaxed I am scared that person will not like me I am scared of getting hurt I am scared of getting too close or being rejected Many people feel anxious on a first date Walking ca calm the nervous system but the conversation making me happy means that we connected in way Many people are worried about this when they are getting to know someone new If you don’t take a risk you will never know what could happen both positively and negatively A second date doesn’t guarantee a relationship so having a second date can be part of taking things slow After considering my emotions and thoughts and the facts about my emotions and thoughts it makes sense that I would agree to go on a second date with this person. I will contact this person tomorrow and tell them I would like to see them again or agree to go out with them if they call and ask me.

Through using this chart I was able to decide to go on a second date with someone and feel calm and confident in my decision because I know that I’m not being impulsive. I also know that is it the healthiest decision for me when I’ve considered all things so I won’t feel regret or make impulsive choices.

Using this chart will help you make happier and healthier decisions that are in line with your morals and values. This will also help decrease impulsivity over the long-term allowing you to make good short-term and long-term decisions. As always if you have any questions please contact me angela@waystowellbeing.ca and I look forward to hearing from you!