Decision-making can be brutal. The higher the stakes, the tougher the decision and often the longer it takes. Also, the greater the stress and pain while mulling things over and examining all the information. Ugh!

Below are a few tips for added confidence when making tough decisions...tips in the form of questions to ask yourself after you've done your due diligence - without over-analysis. Reflecting on one of more of these should help you wrap your arms and mind around a direction to take.

• Think of someone you admire and respect - how would they handle it, what would they do? This person can be here or in the afterlife, doesn't matter. And you can think of two or three people if preferred, just be sure that they have solid credibility with you. It could be your grandmother, your father, a teacher, a boss, a friend.

• What would happen if you didn't do it - emotionally, mentally, even physically? Project into the future. Does it seem like you would have regrets?

• What is the worst that could happen if you did do it? Can you handle that?

• Really, what is it that you are afraid of, relevant to this issue? Be honest.

• What would you do if you could not fail?

• Try breaking it down into baby steps. Look over the steps. Does each one seem doable? Take the 'overwhelmed-ness' out of it.

And finally, recall other tough decisions you have made in the past. What are the similarities with your thought process now? Where did you waste time and energy worrying and analyzing? Think about a few of your best decisions...what about them is consistent, what pattern(s) is there? Apply it to this decision if at all possible.

Decisions don't have to be so painful! At least one of these questions should help you in the future. I wish you smooth sailing in the decision-laden seas of life and business!

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