Taking Chances: Gut Feelings
I was thinking recently about the day that I finished working and moved into the world of being my own boss. I can remember the feelings well: excitement, fear, uncertainty and joy. I was taking a chance on something that I really believed in and although things didn’t move in the direction I had planned, I have never had any regrets over the decision. Indeed, had that decision been avoided or not taken, then I would not be the person who I am today.
I meet a considerable amount of people in my work who are in the position of making these kinds of decisions. Time and time again, once all the research and planning is complete, it comes down to a decision based on strength of belief and a gut feeling. I have never encountered anyone who has made a decision from this place who has ever regretted it. Even if things don’t work out, the learnings and understandings that come as a result of their decision are worth so much more than if they had chosen to do nothing.
Time and time again, people overcome their fears and step into the unknown and flourish. The people who don’t take chances very often find themselves looking back and wondering what might have been. For me that decision was one of the major points in my life and if I do catch myself looking back, it’s in joy and gratitude that I made that decision.
I’m certainly not encouraging impulsive or rash decisions; if you’re in this position then it’s usually a great idea to get some help - obviously I’m going to recommend life coaching now, but there are many ways of getting help and exploring these ideas. The people around you are often a great resource, although sometimes they are a little biased or protective because they care and do not want to see you fail or be hurt.
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Filed under: action planning, motivation — Tags: belief, decision, excitement, fear, fears, gratitude, gut feeling, learnings, Life Coaching, rash decisions, regrets, taking a chance, taking chances, uncertainty — Dan O'Neil @ 8:21 am
I heard a saying once that said ‘Dance with what comes to your door!’ I think this post expresses just that.
If we keep in our minds the possibility that there are no wrong decisions and just different turns on the path we can let go of the fear!
Any way what really is the worst thing that can happen?
@Leanne I love that expression “Dance with what comes to your door!” - thanks for sharing, Dan.
Hi Dan - thanks for finding me on BlogCatalog. Your blog is great. As for being rash, well, you might say my life change was a bit rash - quitting my job, selling everything I own, taking off to a foreign country. hehe But, I feel very alive right now, I have met amazing people, and continue to learn and grow. There have been ups and downs, but as you say, my life is infinitely better for the risks I have taken.
@Omyword! Thanks for sharing your real-life example of what is possible when you get out there and live! Congratulations! Cheers, Dan.
Great post Dan - that is the direction I am headed in also. I have a wonderful full time job that is very meanigful and satisfying but like you I have a feeling of moving on to being my own boss and providing more inspiration and guidance to the lives of others as well as contributing to the greater good on an even greater level.
I congratulate you for having already made that move and I do not doubt you do not regret it. I know I won’t either
@Evita Thanks and good luck! Dan.