Indecision is a sneaky thief.
It might not seem like a big deal at first, but indecision can steal your brain power and focus, leaving you feeling drained and unproductive.
And there is a cost…
Every time we hesitate to make a decision, whether big or small, we’re using up valuable mental energy. This constant back-and-forth in our minds not only eats up our time but also depletes our cognitive resources. Over time, this can lead to decision fatigue, where even the simplest choices become overwhelming.
Indecision often stems from fear—fear of making the wrong choice, FOMO, or fear of the unknown. While it’s natural to want to weigh all the options carefully, prolonged indecision can paralyze us, preventing any forward movement.
And when our brains are cluttered with unresolved decisions, our ability to focus on important tasks diminishes. Instead of channeling our energy into productive work, we get stuck in a loop of overthinking and second-guessing.
So how do we fix it?
Here are 5 ways to Combat Indecision
- Set Clear Priorities 🎯
Define what’s most important to you and your business, organization or ministry. When you have clear priorities, it’s easier to make decisions that align with your goals and values. This clarity cuts through the noise and guides your choices. - Limit Your Options 🛠️
Too many choices can be paralyzing. Try to narrow down your options to a manageable number. For example, instead of considering ten different software tools, focus on the top two or three that meet your needs. - Embrace Imperfection 🌟
Understand that no decision is perfect. Every choice comes with its own set of pros and cons. Embrace the idea that making a decision, even if it’s not perfect, is better than staying stuck in indecision. A moving ship is more easily turned than one anchored on indecision. - Delegate Decision-Making 🗂️
Delegate smaller decisions to trusted team members or your Executive Assistant (EA). This can free up your mental bandwidth for more critical decisions. Your EA can handle routine tasks and provide you with well-researched options for bigger decisions. - Set Deadlines ⏰
Give yourself a specific timeframe to make decisions. Setting deadlines can prevent you from dragging out the decision-making process indefinitely. Once the deadline arrives, commit to making a choice and moving forward.
Don’t let indecision steal your productivity. Take action, make decisions, and keep moving forward. Your brain—and your business—will thank you for it.
Micah Foster, Co-Owner
Micah Foster is a partner at Dream Support LLC who has been providing remote executive assistants to busy leaders who need administrative and organizational help for over five years.
He has a passion for creating and maintaining positive and productive work environments and empowering people to reach their full potential.