In the summer of 1993, just as I was about to graduate from Florida State University, I made a decision that turned out to a very wise one. Until about a year before I finished college, I was sure I wanted to be an international corporate attorney. I made that decision in the 10th grade based on fairly limited information. My major was International Affairs, I grew up learning to speak German and Spanish, and law seemed a logical choice. But as I began to learn more about my planned career path, it just didn't appeal to me as the best fit for my interests. So I decided to apply to a new graduate program in journalism at Florida A & M University, just a mile away from FSU. I was unsure of exactly what I wanted to do with a master's degree in journalism, but I was excited by the possibilities. The month before I was to begin the program, I began to waver. "Maybe an MBA would be better," I thought. "I'll move back home to Denver and pursue that."

 

I was 20 years old. It was a major life decision and I was unsure of how to make it. I was packed and preparing to move when a letter arrived from Florida A & M University's journalism school. They offered a full tuition scholarship and a graduate assistantship. I stood in the living room of my one-bedroom apartment filled with boxes packed and ready to ship to Colorado. "What should I do?" I wondered. Something in my spirit said, "Unpack and stay. It's not time to leave Tallahassee yet." I listened. It was a great decision. 

 

I believe it was divine intervention steering me onto my unique path. And as I look back on my decision, I realize that I had no idea just how that particular course of study would impact my career. From my work as a marketing director to running my own public relations firm, to writing books and columns, and serving as a host in radio and television, God clearly knew what kind of training would be best for the professional vision He had in store for me. And I am thankful that I listened.

 

Sometimes the decisions we make seem obvious, while at other times, our decisions can feel difficult and confusing. This week, I feel led to share 12 questions to help you make solid, deliberate decisions - whether big or small - in your career, relationships, finances and health. Too often, it seems, we can get into the habit of making emotional or hasty decisions. But the wisest decisions are Spirit-led and thoughtfully considered. What I want for you is to make deliberate decisions that enrich the quality of your life.

 

Creating the life you want is really about the choices you make. In essence, if you can manage your decisions well, you will prosper professionally, personally, financially and emotionally. Consider a decision you have been pondering and ask yourself these questions:

1. IS NOW THE TIME TO MAKE THIS DECISION?
Timing is key when it comes to good decisions. You must be willing to move when it's time to move and be patient when it is time to be still. Have the courage to wait for divine timing. Don't force a decision. Allow it to flow naturally. Clearly, some decisions must be made quickly, but don't be hasty. You can still gather facts, consider your alternatives, pray and make a wise decision.

 

2. WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THIS DECISION?
"Why" you are doing something is the fuel that drives your decision. Make sure you are making decisions out of pure motives and be clear about why the decision needs to be made and what objective will be met by making it.

 

3. WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED TO MAKE THE DECISION?
One of the main causes of poor decision-making is a lack of information. Do not make a decision before you have all of the information you need to make a wise, informed decision. Take the time to learn and gather information.

 

 

Please feel free to forward the Rich Minds, Rich Rewards E-Newsletter to friends and colleagues, but please forward in its entirety. The Rich Minds, Rich Rewards E-Newsletter is written and distributed by Inspire, Inc. Copyright (c) 2008 Valorie Burton. All rights reserved. www.valorieburton.com.