Every day, you’re faced with a myriad of decisions. In fact, research suggests that the average adult makes nearly 35,000 decisions daily. Some are inconsequential and have no lasting impact on your overall success (like whether the Stance logo on your designer socks goes on the inside or outside of your foot). However, other decisions require your immediate attention and can determine whether you move forward successfully. I believe that in order to make the most effective decisions possible, it’s important to have a solid foundation to make the whole decision process easier and congruent with your core values.
Before diving into all the resources at your fingertips (books, mentors, news articles, podcasts, etc.), take a breath and try these three exercises. They won’t give you the answer, but they will get your mind in a clear and productive space, enabling you to make the best decision for your future.
Mindful Meditation: Practicing mindfulness meditation can help clear your mind by focusing your attention on the present moment. This technique involves sitting quietly and paying attention to your breathing, thoughts, and sensations without judgment.
- New to meditation? Try the Calm App for guided meditations. YouTube also has a wide variety of free guided meditations you can listen to.
- Can’t find a quiet place? A brief 5-minute meditation in your car before starting the next task can be a great way to rest and reset.
Physical Exercise: Engaging in physical exercise is a powerful way to clear your head. Exercise helps release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and can provide a mental break from stressors. Some of my best ideas and solutions for my business have come while walking or trail running.
- Go for a 20-30 minute walk. Try it without headphones or looking at your phone. Practice not consuming anything except for the sights, sounds, and smells around you.
- If you don’t have access to a trail with various elevations, try adding a weighted vest to your walk for an increased challenge.
Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings in a journal can help you process emotions and organize your thoughts. This practice can be particularly helpful when you feel overwhelmed or stressed.
- Ask yourself, “Is this the problem that really needs to be solved, or is there a deeper-rooted issue that, if resolved, would make this problem go away?”
- Consider, “What historical event is most closely related to this issue? What can I learn from that event that could positively or negatively impact the result of my decision?”
Making a daily habit of these three exercises has greatly impacted my ability to lead my business and family to success, and I am confident they will help you too. And as a final note, the Stance logo is to be worn on the inside of your foot.
Go live life on your terms.
Marcus
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