I recently made a decision that wasn’t the easiest to make. There were both risks and benefits to consider and there were people sharing very opposing opinions. I knew that in the end, it was a decision I would have to make. While it would affect others as well, it would mainly be affecting me. Bottom line was this: it had to be my choice.
It was a difficult choice to make. My mom, whose opinion I deeply respect and always have respected, was one that was different from my own. I usually listen and follow her advice when it comes to my health, but this time, I went in the opposite direction. Don’t get me wrong, I heard her out and looked into what she was saying, but in the end, I did something other than what she recommended. Was it hard.? Yes. Do I regret it? No.
The really difficult part was how it felt to go against her. I felt somewhat guilty and I felt that she was trying to make me feel that way. It felt far from pleasant. Still, I felt empowered to make my own choice and I had a support system that encouraged me to follow what I thought was the right thing to do – whatever that might be. So that’s what I did. I went with the decision that I felt was the right one.
Here’s the thing about making choices. It isn’t always easy. Sometimes you’re going to have to go against what someone you love is saying. Why? Because deep down you have a different opinion; one you feel you shouldn’t ignore. I know it may be hard to not follow the advice of someone you respect, but sometimes it’s necessary. You have to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of the options placed in front of you and decide on the best one for you.
Let me be clear. I am not saying to go against the opinions of loved ones out of spite or anything of that nature. What I am saying is that we have to listen to our hearts and our minds. We have to really put thought into what we’re doing and go from there. We cannot allow others to guilt us into making us choose the decision that will make only them happy. I know that my loved one cares about me and was (and is) concerned that I was making the wrong choice; the risky decision. I know that she wants me to be safe and not to regret my choice. I know that. However, I also think it’s important to support one another. Remember, these difficult decisions are yours to make. Decide wisely and don’t allow others to guilt you into making the choice you don’t want to make. Stand up for that which you believe!
I hope you’re all doing well and I wish you all the best.