We look at indecisiveness as a negative attribute. There is unquestionable value in the ability to decide and act. But sometimes being indecisive can have its advantages, especially if it involves multiple sides to a complex issue. Often, we don’t care. We will follow our friends to whichever restaurant or movie the group chooses, knowing the real joy is in the moments spent with our buddies.
Someone once said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
Being indecisive allows time to gather and digest facts essential to validating or disproving opposing points of view. We open ourselves to information which conflicts with our existing opinions. We examine the merits of both sides of an argument. The pause stops us from blindly following long-held convictions. It means we are self-aware and willing to consider if those doctrines still reflect our inner selves.
Indecisiveness provides an opportunity to analyze what might happen if we opt to answer “yes” instead of our automatic “no.” We can weigh short-term gains against a future benefit, which may far surpass an easy decision.
It is a valuable exercise to break from daily details and habits to give serious consideration to our assumptions. By questioning beliefs, indulging in contemplation, and trying new things, we find space to grow and find ourselves.
How can your indecisiveness improve your life?
Keep on writing.
Jo Hawk The Writer