Not only with this project is decision making hard for me, but for any other circumstance in my daily life. I want to look at ALL the possibilities before deciding on something, so I can make sure I'm extra sure. (For those of you who take/took psychology, at least I'm preventing myself from being prone to groupthink).
Also, there is this model of human personality called the enneagram. It's made up of nine general types of people (1: perfectionist, 2: healer, 3: achiever, 4: individualist, 5: investigator, 6: loyalist, 7: enthusiast, 8: challenger, 9: peacemaker). The reason probably not too many people (at least that I know) have heard of it is because it's taught usually in spiritual contexts. Both of my parents have taken the enneagram test (my mom is a nine, my dad is a four) and throughout high school, I've gotten to learn about it "determine" what I am (I put determine in quotes because I'm not ABSOLUTELY positive yet what my type is). At this point, I believe that I am a nine, like my mom.
Nines tend to not like conflict, shy away from assertion, and have a hard time making decisions, which is how I am!
I'm sure there are some other theories out there as to why decision making is not my jam, but I'm getting better at it. I really am. As a senior, I've held some roles that require me to make decisions without necessarily relying on others' opinions.
Here's a quick picture of the enneagram diagram for your own enjoyment!
I hear you, Katie! As we've talked about, I also struggle with decision making, and tend to avoid conflict. I think I'd be a '9' on this diagram, too.
ReplyDeleteThe negative side of decision making is worrying that you'll be wrong, or gathering SO much information that you become overwhelmed and remain static...some people call this "the paralysis of analysis'...BUT, the positive side of decision making is that it allows you to move FORWARD, towards your goal(s). Which, in the end, will feel better than just standing still.
So, may the forward be with you :)
-Ms. Zaryski