How to make the right decision

First, try to calm down. Sit comfortably, relax, and take a few slow, deep breaths—and slow exhalations, with a pause in between. You can breathe “on the count” — slowly count in your mind to four. For four counts — inhale, for four counts — hold your breath, then (again for four) — exhale and pause again. Just a couple of minutes — and you will calm down, and your head will clear up.

Now remember a moment in your own life when you were a winner, a triumpher, ready to turn the world upside down. It doesn’t matter what it was — passing the most difficult exam with «excellent», winning the competition, or praising the kindergarten teacher. Remember your feelings at that moment, experience them again.

Take a sheet of paper, divide it into two parts and briefly describe the choice you need to make — one option on the left, the other on the right. This will help you step back from the situation and look at it from the outside. Have you written? Now take a look at the sheet. Suddenly, now you will understand which option you like more?

If clarity has not yet come, write in each column all the pros and cons of the options you are considering (in a column, under the numbers). You can also describe what you get in the end with the best scenario, and what — if things do not go well. Check the resulting lists, balance the risks and rewards — and make an informed choice.

Well, if you still can’t choose, toss a coin. Keep in mind, this is not a way to make a choice, but a way to understand what you really want. And, if the coin falls out “on the wrong side” and you are upset, do as your heart tells you. It has already taken solution.