The etymology of the word "decide" traces its roots back to the Latin verb "decidere," which means "to cut off." Far from being mere linguistic trivia, this original meaning unveils a deep truth about the nature of decision-making. When we decide, we cut off other options, severing ourselves from the paralysis of endless possibilities. It is an act of liberating ourselves, a shedding of the weight of doubt and uncertainty that allows us to focus intently on our chosen path.

Napoleon Hill, the legendary self-help author, perfectly captured this sentiment, saying,

"We do not worry over conditions once we have reached a decision to follow a definite line of action."

Hill's words underscore the peace and clarity that come with decisive action, showing us that deciding is far more than mere choice—it's a transformative endeavor.

For many of my clients, especially those navigating the transformative years of menopause, the act of deciding often extends beyond themselves, shaped by the needs of partners, children, or even pets. But menopause can serve as a pivotal moment to reclaim your power of decision-making, choosing to prioritize your own well-being. It's a season of life that invites you to shift the focus back onto yourself, shedding years of conditioned habits to accommodate others. Deciding to take active steps in nurturing your own health and happiness during this phase is not just an act of self-love; it's a declaration of self-worth. And it’s a decision that, once made, has the power to rejuvenate not just your body, but your life.


🎯 Deciding Sets Intention

When we make a decision, especially one as significant as committing to our health or embracing self-love, we set off a ripple effect. That decision becomes an anchor in our lives, guiding our actions, choices, and behaviors like a beacon in the night.

For instance, deciding to prioritize your health might mean saying no to a late-night work email so you can get enough sleep. It could manifest as choosing a refreshing sparkling water over a sugary soda during a stressful afternoon, or opting for a 10-minute walk instead of scrolling through social media. Each of these actions reinforces your core decision, solidifying your commitment to better health.

Once you decide, it's crucial to remind yourself of that decision regularly. Use positive language to reinforce your choice, such as affirmations like, “I choose health,” or actionable reminders like, “I decide to stop eating before I’m full,” or mental cues like, “I choose my thoughts.” These phrases serve as mini-decisions that align with your overarching goal, propelling you closer to the life you want to lead.

😶‍🌫️ Deciding Eliminates Ambiguity

We’ve all been there—facing a dizzying array of options and weighed down by a myriad of "what-ifs" that keep us stuck in a state of indecision. However, the moment we make a choice, the fog lifts and the path ahead becomes crystal clear.

For example, when you decide to focus on your well-being, you become more discerning about your grocery shopping. You consciously avoid the snack aisle filled with chips and cookies, and instead head straight for the fresh produce. Similarly, this clarity extends to your social life; you opt to spend time with people who lift you up rather than those who bring you down, and you choose activities that align with your wellness goals, like a morning jog instead of a late-night binge-watching session.

If you ever find yourself veering off course, remember that your original decision serves as a touchstone to reignite your commitment. It becomes your anchor in a sea of options, allowing you to course-correct with ease.

So, set yourself up for success from the get-go. Make the decision, eliminate the ambiguity, and watch as your path unfolds with newfound clarity.

💪 Deciding Boosts Confidence

Every decision we make offers invaluable feedback and an opportunity for growth. Witnessing the positive outcomes that arise from our decisions—like a healthier body from better food choices or a peaceful mind from digital detoxing—bolsters our self-confidence. Over time, this creates a feedback loop of trust, making us increasingly assertive and confident in future choices.

If you find yourself struggling with indecisiveness, consider adopting a transformative affirmation: "I used to be indecisive, but now decisions come easily for me." This simple yet powerful statement reframes your self-image and sets you on a path to becoming the decisive person you aspire to be. The more you repeat this mantra, the more your actions will align with your new self-concept, further boosting your confidence and empowering you to lead a fulfilling life.