Magic Number

Ever hear the expression, "Third time's the charm!" How many times does it take to convince YOU of something? Are you aware that each of us has a different strategy about how we make decisions? Sure, you are certain that your way is the "right" way--well, compared to whom? But, each of us has a magic number, that when we reach it, solidifies our decision or intention to act.

If 1X is your number, some might call you "impulsive." You might say "intuitive" or "self-assured." If 5X is your number, you might be called "deliberate," "thoughtful," or even "strategic." Either way, these are just arbitrary labels we use to define or justify ourselves in relation to each other.

Think how helpful it is just to acknowledge the vastness of our differences in one minute area such as convincers. How easily we can transfom impatience, irritation or judgement into tolerance.

I think part of it is how inclined we are to do the thing we are deciding to do in the first place. How stubborn we are, how much information we have about it. But mostly, if we are leaning that way to begin with, it doesn't take much of a push to jump in, does it?! The more resistance we have to something, the more convincers we might need. Pay attention to this.

Are you just being stubborn, digging in your heels because that is how you experience the world? If so, realize that it's a form of self-protection, a strategy that might have been effective for you at some time in your past, but now could be reevaluated. When we feel that people are out to get us, that people cannot be trusted--well, turn it around. And, you will see that you really do not trust yourself. Somewhere along the way, you were hurt once and now you've developed a crust to protect yourself from being taken advantage of, projecting this onto all of your interactions. Realize that most people are not intentionally wanting to hurt you.

Trust your decision-making ability. The more clarity you have about what results you want, the more confident you will feel making decisions that suit your best interests. Realize that those feelings are all about YOU--not Them--and you will find it not only easier to make choices but you will feel more sure about the choices you make.