I love talking about doing stuff. One of my blogs is ‘Something is almost always better than Nothing‘. But I often find myself in moments when making a decision feels like being stuck in quicksand. I sit, vacantly staring at my PC, playing out scenarios in my head until it hurts. I like to call it “Possibility Purgatory.” It’s like being trapped in a limbo between potential outcomes, unable to move forward due to the overwhelming uncertainty of each choice. In this blog, we’ll explore the concept of Possibility Purgatory, provide an illustrative example, and offer some practical strategies to overcome.
Possibility Purgatory occurs when we face important decisions with far-reaching consequences, and the plethora of possible outcomes clouds our judgment. We become hesitant, fearing that choosing one path will lead to missed opportunities or regret. This state of indecision hinders progress, and as the clock keeps ticking, we find ourselves stuck, unsure of which direction to take.
For example – this old house I live in needs a lot of work. On the surface everything is holding together, but underneath there are issues (this isn’t actually a metaphor for my life). The to-do list is so long, and there are so many dependencies, and I so distrust most tradesmen, and there’s only a limited amount of money. So the to-do list feels more like a to-don’t list. I’m writing this blog to help me get my ass in gear…
While escaping Possibility Purgatory might seem challenging, it’s not an insurmountable feat. Here are some practical strategies to help break free from this state of limbo and make confident decisions:
Define Your Values and Priorities
Take a step back and reflect on what truly matters to you. Clarify your core values and long-term goals. This exercise will provide a solid foundation upon which you can evaluate each option’s alignment with your aspirations. For example, i would really like it not to rain inside my house.
Conduct a Cost-Benefit Analysis
Create a list of pros and cons for each choice. Weigh the potential benefits against the risks and drawbacks associated with each decision. This analytical approach will help you gain a clearer understanding of the potential outcomes. For example, I know getting the roof fixed will be a bit expensive, but not so much as the wall falling down.
Set Decision Criteria
Establish specific criteria that your ideal choice must meet. This will provide an objective framework for assessing each option and help you avoid getting overwhelmed by unnecessary variables. For example I need to roof repair to be permanent and for it to be done my nice people I trust.
Limit Information Gathering
While gathering information is crucial, too much data can lead to analysis paralysis. Set a deadline for research and trust that you have gathered enough information to make an informed decision. For example – I don’t need a list of every roofer in my area – I’ll pick three.
Embrace Imperfection
Acknowledge that there is no perfect choice and that all decisions come with inherent risks and uncertainties. Embracing imperfection can help you move forward with greater confidence. For example – I do actually need this to be perfect, but i can be flexible on timelines, and I don’t need to be best friends with the roofer.
Seek External Perspective
Talk to trusted friends, family members, or mentors who can offer valuable insights and an outsider’s perspective on your situation. Their input may shed light on aspects you may have overlooked.
Possibility Purgatory can be a challenging place to escape from, but with the right strategies and mindset, it’s possible to break free and make confident decisions. By defining your values, conducting an analysis, setting criteria, and seeking external perspective, you can navigate the sea of possibilities and emerge from limbo with clarity and conviction. Embrace the uncertainty and view it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Remember, it’s better to make a choice and learn from it than to remain trapped in the purgatory of indecision.
Right, I’m off to phone the roofer then.
