Article
How do I make a big decision when I am this tired?
Big decisions rarely arrive one at a time, and they usually arrive when you are already depleted.
The short answer
Fatigue makes decisions harder and worse. It helps to reduce the number of decisions, separate reversible ones from significant ones, and consult a small number of people rather than everyone you know.
A workable process
- Write the decision as a question with a deadline.
- List what you actually know, separately from what you fear.
- Ask which option you could live with if it went badly.
- Talk to two people who know you, not ten who have opinions.
- Decide, then stop reopening it for a set period.
When it is not really indecision
Sometimes the stall is anxiety rather than a lack of information. If more research keeps producing the same uncertainty, the missing ingredient is usually tolerance for risk, not data.
Perfectionism also stalls decisions, because there is no option that guarantees you will not be blamed.
Thinking out loud with someone
Counseling is a good place for this, particularly when a decision touches identity, family expectations, faith or a fear you have not said out loud. Sessions are available in Waterloo or online across Iowa.
Common questions
Do you work with graduate students?
Yes. Lori works with women and female students, roughly ages 13 to 65.
What if my family wants something different for me?
That tension is common and worth talking through directly.
Will a counselor tell me what to do?
No. She will help you get clear enough to choose.
Learn more about counseling for women and female students with Lori, or browse all articles for women and female students.
Written by Lori Rasmussen, LISW, a Licensed Independent Social Worker licensed in the State of Iowa and a Certified Spiritual Director. Lori counsels women and female students in Waterloo, Iowa and online across Iowa. Articles here are meant to help you understand what you may be experiencing; they are not a diagnosis and they do not take the place of care from a professional who knows your story.
Reaching out can be the first step.
You don't need to know exactly what to say, or have anything figured out, before you contact Lori.
Or email rasmussencounselingandsd@gmail.com