Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 167 April 2024 | Page 69

Mental Health

Perfecting Your Choices By Glen Ross

The art of perfecting your choices can lead to a new paradigm in decision-making , and differentiate between making the right decision , versus making the decision right .
There are a number of strategies one can use for effective navigation :
1 EMBRACE IMPERFECTION : Recognise that no decision is flawless . Accepting this can reduce the pressure to find the ' perfect ' choice and opens up more creative and flexible thinking . 2 CULTIVATE MINDFULNESS : Stay present and attentive to the unfolding journey . Mindfulness allows us to better adapt to unforeseen challenges and opportunities that arise along the way . 3 SEEK LEARNING , NOT FAILURE : Every decision , regardless of its outcome , offers valuable lessons . Viewing decisions as experiments in learning rather than pass / fail tests can transform our relationship with risk and failure . 4 ADJUST THE SAILS : Be willing to modify your course based on new information and experiences . The ability to pivot is crucial in making a decision right .
The Empowerment of Choice
Central to this narrative is the empowerment that comes from recognising our active role in shaping outcomes . By adopting the mindset that we can make any decision right , we are encouraged to take responsibility for our actions and their consequences . This proactive stance fosters a sense of agency and resilience , essential qualities for personal growth and development .

In a world riddled with infinite choices , and the looming pressure to make the ' right ' decisions , it ’ s easy to find ourselves at a crossroads , paralysed by the fear of potential outcomes . This anxiety often stems from a misconception that there is a perfect decision for every situation – a belief that can hinder our personal growth and self-improvement journey . However , the wisdom imparted by Dr Ellen Langer offers a refreshing escape from this mental trap : “ Rather than waste your time being stressed over making the right decision , make the decision right ."

This empowering perspective not only captivates , but also enlightens , providing a foundational principle for those keen on personal development . Let ' s delve deeper into this narrative , exploring the art of decisionmaking through a mental model that simplifies and illuminates the key concepts discussed , leaving you with practical wisdom and a new perspective on how to approach decisions . mental model reminds us that our perceptions and plans are merely representations of reality , not reality itself . The actual territory of decision-making is far more complex and nuanced than any map can depict . This realisation is liberating . It encourages us to embrace flexibility and adaptability , acknowledging that the path we choose might require unexpected turns and detours to reach our desired destination .
Making the Decision Right
Dr Langer ' s quote invites us to shift our focus from the stress of choosing the perfect route ( making the right decision ) to the art of navigating the journey effectively ( making the decision right ). This approach does not negate the importance of thoughtful consideration . Rather , it emphasises the dynamic process of adapting to the terrain as we traverse it . Making a decision right is about committing to our choices , and then actively shaping our path , informed by real-time feedback and experiences .
The wisdom in Dr Langer ' s words offers a transformative perspective on decision-making . It challenges us to move beyond the paralysis of perfectionism and embrace the dynamic process of shaping our destinies . The mental model of " the map is not the territory " serves as a powerful analogy , illustrating the importance of flexibility , adaptability and resilience in navigating the complex landscape of life ' s choices .
As we continue on our journey of personal development , let us carry with us the practical wisdom of making decisions right . By doing so , we open ourselves to a world of possibilities , where growth is fuelled not by the fear of making the wrong choice , but by the courage to make any choice the right one for us . This perspective is not just a strategy for decision-making , it ' s a philosophy for living a fulfilled and empowered life .
Mental Model for Decision-making
Imagine for a moment that each decision you face is a journey through uncharted territory . The map you hold represents your understanding and assumptions about this landscape – your predictions , fears and expectations . However , as the philosopher Alfred Korzybski noted , “ The map is not the territory .” This
Glen Ross is a dedicated Brain Health Coach , Therapist , and Mental Health Ambassador . With a passion for empowering individuals , he guides you on a transformative journey towards improved wellbeing and personal growth , helps you to optimise brain health , enhance mental resilience , overcome challenges and unlock your full potential . More at www . glenross . coach .
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