How to Overcome Indecision According to Therapists

Core Concepts

Indecisiveness stems from fear and lack of self-trust, but it can be overcome by learning to set boundaries and trust oneself in decision-making.

Abstract

Indecisiveness is often rooted in fear and a lack of self-trust, leading individuals to struggle with making choices confidently. Therapists emphasize the importance of setting boundaries, trusting oneself, and being comfortable with others not fully agreeing with decisions to overcome indecision effectively. By practicing these strategies, individuals can regain confidence in their decision-making abilities and prioritize their own needs while considering external opinions within reason.

Stats

"At its root, indecisiveness is often the fear that you’re not going to make the right decision because you don’t trust yourself and you’re scared of how people are going to respond to your decision," therapist Meg Josephson explains. "Giving another person the power of the decision gives us and our inner child a false, short-term sense of safety," Josephson adds. Clinical psychologist Thea Gallagher mentions that it's important to learn not to care about what others think of your choices "within reason." Dr. Gallagher advises starting small by making decisions without seeking approval first as a way to build confidence in decision-making. If indecision persists, Dr. Gallagher recommends seeking help from a mental health professional.

Quotes

"It can be such a healing practice to start becoming comfortable with people not fully agreeing with our decisions." - Meg Josephson "If you can do this, it’s going to make you a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled person." - Dr. Thea Gallagher

Key Insights Distilled From

Exactly How To Overcome Indecision, According to Therapists | Well+Good

by Korin Miller at www.wellandgood.com 02-07-2022

https://www.wellandgood.com/how-to-overcome-indecision/

Deeper Inquiries

What role does childhood experience play in shaping an individual's ability to make decisions confidently?

Childhood experiences can significantly impact an individual's ability to make decisions confidently. For instance, if a person had to neglect their own needs in order to please others and feel safe during childhood, they may develop a pattern of indecisiveness later in life. This could stem from the fear of not making the right decision and not trusting oneself due to past experiences where their needs were subordinated for the sake of others' approval or safety. Such patterns can create a lack of self-trust and confidence when it comes to decision-making.

Is there a balance between considering external opinions and prioritizing one's own needs when overcoming indecision?

When overcoming indecision, finding a balance between considering external opinions and prioritizing one's own needs is crucial. While it is important to be open to feedback from others, especially those close to us like partners or family members whose lives might be impacted by our decisions, it is equally essential not to let external opinions dictate our choices entirely. Learning how to set healthy boundaries that protect our autonomy while still valuing input from others within reason can help strike this balance effectively.

How does societal pressure influence an individual's struggle with making choices?

Societal pressure can have a significant influence on an individual's struggle with making choices. The fear of judgment or disapproval from society can lead people into cycles of indecision as they try to conform or meet perceived expectations. This pressure often stems from cultural norms, social media influences, or comparisons with others that create unrealistic standards for decision-making. Overcoming this struggle involves learning how not everyone will agree with our choices all the time and being comfortable with potential disagreements while staying true to oneself despite societal pressures pushing for conformity.