What to Do When Stuck in a Decision

Monk Mindset for Living Well

Monk Mindset 7

Discern Carefully: Commit Confidently

Reflection on the Monk Mindset & Quote

How often do we feel paralyzed by a decision that feels too big, too overwhelming, or too final? Whether it’s a career change, a move, or a personal commitment, the pressure to make the “right” decision can cloud our ability to take action. We sit with the weight of it—perhaps for days, weeks, or even months—feeling stuck and unsure.

Recently, a friend asked me for career advice. He was at a crossroads of making a big career change and felt crushed by the weight of that decision. I tried to lower the stakes: “Before you make this huge switch, can you test it out first?” Testing it out can be as simple as spending a few hours a week working in a similar role.

Try it on. See how it feels. Do you feel at peace, hopeful, motivated? Or something different?

While there are many things we can do to approach greater clarity on a decision, a key step is so practical and simple: Test it out. 

If we test it out and we feel encouraged, hopeful, energized, at peace or some combination of these things, it’s likely worth exploring further. 

Through this process, we build confidence and clarity. 

Slowly, what once felt impossible becomes increasingly clear. We allow the decision to be ‘revealed’ to us as we take action toward it.

Put It Into Practice This Week

What’s one decision you've been avoiding?

Identify the smallest possible step you can take to move closer to making that choice.

Focus on taking that step, without the pressure of making the final decision—just aim for greater clarity.

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