b"Chapter 9 3.Weigh the pros and cons: when facedwith animportantdecision, we sometimes lose sight of the big picture. Write a list of the pros and cons of each course of action, then compare them. Sometimes the downsides aren't as bad as we imagine them to be, or the upsides can make your options more obvious.4.Think about your goals and values: it is important to be true to ourselves and what we value in life. When you factor into a decision on the things that are important to you, the best option may become apparent. Either way, you're more likely to end up with a result that works for you.5.Considerallthepossibilities:makingadecisioncanleadtoseveral different outcomes and not all of them are necessarily obvious. When considering each option, don't only list the positives and negatives; write down all the likely consequences.6.Talk about it: it can be helpful to get another person's perspective on your issue, especially if they've faced a similar decision in their own life.7.Note: If you feel as if you're on an emotional roller coaster, it can be helpfultokeeptrackofyourdecision-makingprocessandfeelingsby writing them down.8.Planhowyouwilltellothers:ifyouthinksomeonemayhaveabad response to your decision, consider what their reaction is likely to be. Put yourself in their shoes to help you find a good way to handle the situation.9.Rethink your possibilities: if you're under a lot of pressure on a decision, or if there are new factors to consider, re-examine your options. You might decide that your initial decision be still the best, but you give yourself the option to change course. If a decision no longer seems appropriate to you, repeat the steps to find a better solution.If you are going through a difficult time:Ifyou'refeelingoverwhelmedbynegativefeelingsbecauseyou'refacinga tough decision, it's important to take care of yourself. Take time to relax or do something you enjoy. 272Germain Decelles"