How Can You Be Certain of Your Decision Making?

By Amy Sherman, LMHC

Life would be great if every decision you made came with a randomized controlled study to affirm that your decision was correct and would work out on your behalf.

But things are not so clear-cut and there are no guarantees. Uncertainty about your decisions is usually what keeps you from making them in the first place. Plus, when your decision is based on averages and statistics, it puts more doubt on whether your choice is accurate and reliable. Therefore, when you say, most people do this... or generally, people should do that..., you are relying on averages and not basing your decision on what is the best choice for you.

Take mammograms, for example. New guidelines state that women should now get a mammogram at age 50 instead of at 40 and follow it up every two years instead of annually. Statistics show that very few women get breast cancer in their 40's, so on the average, women do not need to be checked until age 50. Would that be the right choice for you? Are you comfortable with that guideline?

Another example is the value of drinking a moderate amount of alcohol for lowering your heart attack risk. Does the research take into account your lifestyle and family history? Would this behavior be a benefit or a hindrance in your case?

What you can do to clear up any uncertainties you have when evidence appears confusing is the following:

1. Make sure your information is reliable and complete. You may want to look at many resources - medical professionals, non-medical experts, friend and family testimonials, Internet articles and reports, etc. Learn as much as you can to make an informed and knowledgeable decision that you can live with.

2. Know yourself. You know yourself better than anyone else, so don't be intimidated by generalities. You need to assess the risks, benefits, costs, your values, beliefs, your history and lifestyle and present day circumstances, before making any kind of valid decision.

With any decision, whether it's a medical, lifestyle, financial or career choice, be sure to stay abreast of new developments and breakthroughs. In that way you are no longer making educated guesses and hoping for the best. You are now making wise, well thought out decisions where the evidence appears conclusive for your peace of mind. Richard Bach said, "Your only obligation in any lifetime is to be true to yourself." Therefore, use your true wisdom to guide you when you're challenged with an important decision to make.

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