Happy Summer!

The image below is a "decision tree" I clipped from a Nissan car ad. The idea of the ad was to communicate... "Aren't you glad you 'did' buy the Nissan?"

I had to scan it and share it with you.

Coulda-Woulda-Shoulda? vs. Did!

This graphic isn't about a car... it is about life. It's about when 'go for it!' And as a result, either celebrate the rewards or learn a lesson.

Why do we often choose coulda-woulda-shoulda lives?

Risk. It is because of risk. Risk can be scary. The level of risk you associate with the consequence of a decision, typically drives how difficult that decision is for you to make.

That's why it's easier to (a) choose your bread and toppings at a Subway sandwich shop than it is to (b) choose which make and model for your next family car.

But, time moves quickly. (I know, "Tell me something I don't know, Paul.") One thing we all wish we had, was more time. When time passes - opportunities pass too.

Too often, we let opportunity pass us by. In an attempt to avoid risk - the risk of feeling foolish, uncomfortable, out of your element, and the fear of fear - we miss opportunity. You've heard the phrase 'decision by indecision?' That's what happens when you have a choice, take too long to make up your mind, and the choice is gone.

"Did" - A Trial Run

So, what to do? I have a middle ground for you, a trick if you want to get away from coulda-woulda-shoulda, aren't ready to jump in head-first.

If you're uncertain if a decision is the "right one" or feels "too risky" here's a way to test first. "Pretend" that you've made that decision. Live life for a week or two as if it were completely true. See how it feels. Do you feel good? Calm? Or are you anxious? What does your gut say?

Want to quit your job? Pretend you've turned in your two-week notice and go about life as if that decision has been made. Go as far as to work on your resume, and get ready for the next steps once you've left the job.

Not sure you want to buy that car? Pretend you did and that it is being shipped to you in 6 weeks. Heck, start putting $125 a week into savings as if you're already making the payments. During those 6 weeks, how do you feel? When you see someone else driving your model do you feel proud? Or, are other cars appealing to you. Do you regret this "decision" or are you happy with this "purchase?"

You get the idea... But don't wait too long - or the real opportunity may be gone.

In "the end" no one wants to have lived a coulda-woulda-shoulda life... (Some say that isn't living at all). You want to look back and say, "Did!"

Those "Did!" choices are yours for the making... right now...

Go for it!

Paul

Paul Williams
professional problem solver
Idea Sandbox

Idea Sandbox • Seattle | Amsterdam