Today, I received a text from my daughter Amanda. She’s graduating from college in May and
is shopping online for a white graduation dress. One by one, she sent me photos.
Each dress was lovely. Each one looked “just right.”
Each one had only small differences.
One had lace on the sleeve. One had wider straps.
One had a bow.
All beautiful. All appropriate. All perfect for a May celebration. And yet…how to choose
one?
That simple moment got me thinking. Because this isn’t really only about dresses. It’s about something we deal with all the time.
Making decisions when every
option seems good
We tend to think more options make life easier. But often, they make things harder.
When everything looks “fine,” we start to:
Overthink
Second-guess ourselves
Worry
about making the “wrong” choice
Put off deciding altogether
This happens with big things, like computers, phone plans, and furniture, and small things, too, like planners,
subscriptions, or even what meal to choose from a restaurant menu.
Too many good choices can leave us feeling stuck.
That’s when it helps to slow things down and get some clarity.
Use a Simple Pro/Con List
A good old-fashioned Pro/Con list may sound basic, but it works because it gets everything out of your head and onto paper. Here’s how to use it in a way that’s actually helpful.
1. Write Down the Pros: Be honest...not what you should like, but what you really like. Is it: Comfortable? Practical? Affordable? Easy to use? A good fit for your lifestyle? Write it down.
2. List the Cons: This isn’t about being
negative. It’s about being realistic. Could it be: Hard to maintain?
Too complicated? More expensive than you’d like?
Something that might bother you later? Even small concerns are worth noting.
3. Look at the Big Picture: Once everything is on paper, step back and look. Often, one option clearly makes more sense. One has fewer drawbacks. One fits your life better. And your choice becomes easier.
When All the Lists Look the Same
Sometimes, though, something interesting happens.
You make your Pro/Con lists. You review them carefully. And then everything comes out about the same. No major drawbacks. No obvious winner.
All solid choices. When that happens, it’s time to stop analyzing and start
listening. Go with your gut. Ask yourself:
"Which one do I keep coming back to?"
"Which one makes me smile a little?"
"Which one feels right?"
That quiet inner nudge is often worth trusting, especially when the facts are equal.
And yes, when it comes to something meaningful like a graduation dress, it really does need to feel good.
Use This for Big and Small Decisions
This process works for more
than shopping. You can use it for:
Home projects
Subscriptions
Commitments
Time
decisions
Organizational systems
Anytime you feel stuck between good options, this approach helps you move forward with confidence.
The next time you’re having trouble deciding, grab a piece of paper and make a quick Pro/Con list. Then, if everything still looks equally good, take a breath and trust your instincts. They’ve served you well before.
As for that graduation dress…she’s still deciding. And yes, I threw in my two
cents when it came to my favorite. Amanda’s note back said, "I think that’s my favorite too!"
On another note...Reading is more than words on a page; it’s an experience. The right accessories make it even better, whether you’re curled up at home, traveling, or sneaking in a chapter before bed. Here are ten hand-picked items every book lover will adore.Goodies For People Who Love to Read
