adminDr Mazvita Machinga
WHEN I am stuck, how will I pick the right option? What shall I do? I have often heard people saying these words. It is okay to ask these questions but we need not to end on that. In the last article, I promised to take you through how to choose the best option from a list of possible ones.
This process involves you taking time to evaluate and choose alternatives and implementing solutions. Choosing the best option is analyzing what is right basing on the circumstances.This is when in the face of difficulty you learn to narrow down the possibilities, choosing a course of action, and determining the action’s potential consequences.
It is very possible for people to struggle with anxiety when trying to solve a problem and picka best possible solution. In such situations and moments of confusion, seeking professional help may assist in greater ways. The first thing is to gather as much information as possible pertaining your problem. It is not advisable to rely on assumptions. GET THE FACTS. Reflect on ideas and facts from various people, consult people you trust and other professionals where necessary. Remember your values, principles and expectations when finalizing an option. Professional counseling will help you brainstorm thesevarious ideas. Brainstorming helps produce a wide range of possible solutions. Evaluate each possible solution in light of your goals, objectives and expectations.
As you do this, you need to look at the strengths and weakness of your choices. Remember, do not only put a bandaid, always solve the root of the problem. Do not try to dodge solving the problem. Do your part and leave the rest to God. Do things differently. Change the way you see things. “You can’t solve a problem with the same thinking that created it( Albert Einstein)”.
Consider what might go wrong with each alternative. I want to remind you of Theodore Roosevelt words, “In any moment of decision the best thing you can do is the right, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.” This means problems soften when addressed. When you are choosing the best option it is important that you distinguish between the problem symptoms and the causes. Avoid the trap of focusing on what is wrong only, ignoring what is right. On your options focus on what is right. If things are going on well then they can’t be part of the problem.Do you have a problem now? Then ask yourself,what am I satisfied with? When are things correct? Where are things correct? Who is involved or not involved? Choose your best solution, commit to your decision and follow through with it. Always ask self, how I feel about this right now. What are the benefits and why is this worth doing?
Remember as Denis Waitley, says, “Don’t pre-occupy yourself too much on what went wrong. Instead, focus on what to do next. Remember the lessons learnt. Spend your energies on moving forward toward finding way forward than going backward or staying stuck. I hope this article will do a long way to keep your head above the ground when faced with a problem. Remember when it is overwhelming there is help for you feel free to contact professional help.
Dr Mazvita Machinga Ph.D. is a qualified psychotherapist in Mutare who offers professional counseling and psychotherapy. For more information on psychotherapy and mental health care contact her at 0771 754 519 or [email protected]
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