Choices. This is the one area in life that we all have the power to make for ourselves. Maybe not so much in childhood (depending on the situation), but our parents should have taught us to think for ourselves even then. Or even as it applies to schoolwork. Studying for the test makes you more likely to make a good grade. That is a choice. Choices can either work in your favor or sometimes not. Every goal, accomplishment, or failure ultimately comes from a choice you've made. Your destiny lies within the choices you make. You will gain knowledge, understanding, and freedom when you embrace your choices. One of the most coincidental things about choices is even when there is no action on your part (no choice), there will still be an outcome- that will boil down to your (non) choice.
Let's address those who use the infamous scapegoats: 'I have no choice,' 'There is nothing I can do,' etc. As adults, we can 'choose' to let the outside world shape our perception of our situation. However, there is never a situation in which we do not have the power to choose. With each choice, there is either a win or a consequence. It's not that we don't have an option- it's more like we choose the energetic price we pay. This responsibility comes with choice, and it's a powerful one.
Then, some will remain quiet and let the chips fall where they may be. This is a slippery slope, though. Some do this because they will have it to fall back on. They can blame the other guy (or situation) if things do not work out. For the people with this mindset, I often ask myself, "Where's the power in letting other people make your choices?" Then, I have to stop and be judgment-free. I ask myself: "What was their childhood like?" How we act in adulthood often mirrors how we were raised and our childhood environment. The cycle repeats itself if we do not eventually recognize it and try to get some help (or at least start doing internal work on ourselves). It may be self-esteem issues. People may not be confident in their choices, so they let others make it for them. Personally- I never willingly give up my choices. I am non-confrontational by nature. Often, that leads people to think I am passive. That I have no voice. However, I stand my ground if I know it will majorly impact me or others. I always want to have a say-so in my life's path. I never want to have any regrets. I don't want people to have power over my destiny. It is only fair. And yes- I may mess up along the way, but I will be comfortable saying it was my choice and my own decision. I will learn from any mistakes made in the interim.
Lastly, children and teenagers may be subject to peer pressure. Our friends may strongly influence our choices. But what about adults? Are you still letting your friends influence you? Some may come from families that have traditions that they must follow. Does this technically mean they have no choice? I will tread lightly on this subject because traditions and religious beliefs often fall into different categories. Still, it would be nice to mention it in this blog.
As I wrap this up,
Remember:
Choices are what YOU choose to do:
· I embrace good health, so I will nourish my body, eat healthy foods, and exercise.
· I choose to be optimistic. The glass IS half full.
· I choose to allow prosperity to flow into my life.
See! Now that was easy. Choose you! The Choice is YOURS!
#choices #powerinchoices #decisionmaking #adult #optimistic
*Originally written in 2020. Revised