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Consequences

We live in a world that tells us to do what feels good now:  that's called instant gratification.  Sometimes our first reaction is to ask: how will this benefit me right now?  How will this make me feel good?  It is easy to assume that what we are experiencing is reality, and to only see the here and now.  We forget about the future, and think that it will take care of itself.  But in reality, the future is NOW, and you are shaping and molding who you will become with the decisions you are making everyday: your character, beliefs, values, morals, and priorities, to name a few.

Consequence is just a big fancy word for the result of your decision.  There are consequences for every decision you make, whether it's good or bad.  They are real, and they will show up:  sometimes right away, or sometimes not for awhile after the decision is made.  However, you must face them at one point or another. Consider the consequences associated with your decision, and the likelihood that it will happen.

All by myself?

Do I have to make this decision alone?  The answer is no!  Look in as many areas as possible to find information about your options.  You can find information in the following places:  family, friends, co-workers, teachers, pastors, the government, the Internet, newspapers, books, magazines, etc.

Look for people with wisdom in your life to help you.  Wisdom is not just being smart, but also being able to apply that intelligence in real life situations.  Go to them for advice, to bounce ideas off of, and to suggest other alternatives for you.  They will probably bring things to your attention that you had not even considered!

I'm so angry, I could...

Serious decisions should not be made when you are angry, hurt, depressed, desperate, or frightened.  Do not make decisions just to get revenge or to hurt someone else.  Take some time and wait until you are calm and have thought things through:  you'll be surprised by how much your perspective will change!  By doing this before you act, you will consequently avoid many unnecessary problems.

Things to remember:

Here are some things to keep in mind when making a decision:

• Avoid making snap decisions.
• Not making a decision is a decision itself to not take action.
• Major decisions require courage.  Courage is doing the right thing when it is most difficult.
• Be honest with yourself.  While it is necessary to have goals and aspirations, you must also be able to identify your own strengths and weaknesses.
• Be aware of timing:  choosing the right alternative at the wrong time is not any better than choosing the wrong alternative at the right time.
• Be able to differentiate between "important" and "urgent" issues.  Often urgent problems disguise themselves as important.  Important problems deserve more attention.

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