–An excerpt from a book I recently wrote for Global Mapping International on how to make our choices count. Get the book Decision Time here.
Our decisions matter!
“We are not living in a world where all roads are radii of a circle and where all, if followed long enough, will therefore draw gradually nearer and finally meet at the centre: rather in a world where every road, after a few miles, forks into two, and each of those into two again, and at each fork you must make a decision,” said C S Lewis.
Making decisions is a big part of our lives. The choices we make, both big and small, can have lasting impact. But how many of us seriously consider the ways we make decisions?
Our choices show the world who we are, who we represent, and what our motives and intentions are.
Decisions we make today will determine the direction our lives take in the days to come. They will influence the success or failure of the initiatives we pursue. As our decisions go, so go our lives.
But our choices do more than shape our future direction. They reveal our heart—our passion, vision, and calling. They can also reveal undesirable traits such as control, manipulation, or insecurity.
Our decisions also reveal our values. If we value openness, we will allow space for input from our team members. If we value input from respected leaders, we will take the time to consult them in our decision making. If we value relationships, we will seek to protect our relationships in decision making.
Our decisions also impact those we serve, as well as those who serve beside us. Our decisions cut both ways.
The choices we make on a daily basis also paint a picture of our worldview to those around us. Human motives can seem indecipherable, but our decisions express our inner motives. The unique color and flavor of our choices point to the worldview we embrace.
What about your decisions? What do they reveal about your beliefs and about the Savior you serve? What do they say about your leadership style and true motives?
We are free to make choices and decisions, but we are not free from the consequences of those decisions. Freedom to choose is linked intimately to the need to understand the consequences of our choices as well as the need to take responsibility for those consequences. All consequences have long-term effects—good or bad.
Are we free to choose the things that might hurt those around us?
How much are we willing to sacrifice when we make a choice?
Do we know what the consequences of our choices are?
Are we willing take responsibility for them?
How can we maximize on our choices?
At decision time, we realize we have been given both a privilege and a responsibility. It is exciting to make decisions, but it is also sobering to consider the cost and the consequences for making poor decisions.
Ultimately, it’s our decision how we make decisions. May we excel in wisdom, restraint, courage, determination, grace, and love!
For practical questions to ask at decision time, check out my post “on questions to ask at decision time.“
~shini abraham, ©2015, duco divina – contemplative doodling
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