***Three Tips to better decisions

Have you ever done something just to later look back and wonder “what was I thinking?” I know I have and I’m pretty sure everyone has at some point in their lives. You know the old adage, hindsight is 20/20. Or, how about “if I knew then what I know now I would have done things differently.” What if I told you that there is a sure fire way to make better decisions? Do you think that could change your life? Here’s the thing, I can’t change your life for you. I can only give you the tools so you can change your own life, but ultimately you are the one that must do. Every choice we make has a consequence. Sometimes the consequences are good and sometimes they’re not. More importantly, sometimes we don’t realize or think about our choices or decisions until the damage is done. At which point we have to suffer the consequences which later leads to regret. How can you learn to exercise better judgment without making painful mistakes that could have been avoided in the first place? Here are five things you can do to make better decisions.

1. 10 second rule- Before you react to anything stop and count to ten slowly. This means when someone says something that you want to rip their head off for just stop. Inhale for a count of five and exhale for a count of five. Just that right there will have elevated your consciousness and provided you with the opportunity to respond wisely versus reacting emotionally.
2. Video tape test- Before you engage in an act that you might possibly regret later, think about this. If your actions were caught on videotape and sent to your mother would you be proud? If whatever you are doing showed up on YouTube or the evening news and everyone you knew and everyone you didn’t know were to see it, would you be embarrassed or would you be proud? Sometimes we don’t think before we do and then later wish we could undo it altogether. But unfortunately, you can’t undo the past but you can make better choices in the present by being present.
3. Child test- Many times we don’t have our best interest in mind. Many times we don’t hold ourselves in high regard. How can we learn to respect ourselves? Try this. Before you instantly say yes or no or allow someone to treat you badly, ask yourself “would this be good enough for my child?” Even if you don’t have or want children this method can help. Somehow we as human beings accept less or allow things that would never be acceptable our child. Be your own parent and nurture your own inner child. Then decide if what you are doing or allowing is acceptable for you.

nIf you utilize these three tools I guarantee you will make better choices, have more proud moments and far fewer regrets. For more information visit www.sharspeaks.com