An Intention Does Not A Decision Make

You may have heard it said that some people "can't see the forest through the trees". In other words, do you have trouble seeing the big picture? In terms of decision making, do you have difficulty making a series of related decisions that will eventually result in accomplishing a major life goal? It's as if the "forest" represents a dense obstacle to a fervent desire. You get overwhelmed with even the thought of trying to make it through the thicket. But consider for a moment, moving through the tall spires---one by one---and you'll be surprised at how quickly you can get through the forest.


If you make the commitment to first honor your initial intention and then follow through with the decision, you'll be paying attention to the both the trees and forest simultaneously. Even though there may be no immediate reward like passing tree after tree, waiting for a stream of sunlight to break through the shade, you can eventually reach your goal.

Here are some examples of intentions that ultimately can merge into decisions.

1. Making a series of successive decisions that involve forcing yourself to save money in order to make a down payment on a house.

2. Taking a series of classes, making a commitment to each one, in order to earn a college degree.

3. Establishing a goal to arise each morning at 5:00, to fulfill your goal of writing your first novel.

4. Taking piano lessons (and practicing each evening in order to play for your own enjoyment and or the enjoyment of others.)

5. Making it a practice of surfing the web each evening in order to discover what job opportunities may be on the market in your home town.

Beginning is a matter of motivation and the best way to get motivated is to begin at the beginning.

By: Walter J. Rollin, Ph.D.

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Dr. Rollin is also the author of The Psychology of Communication Disorders in Individuals and Their families as well as Counseling Individuals with Communications Disorders. He has an active therapy practice in Sacramento, California and continues to offer his popular decision-making workshops. Visit his website at decisiondr.com.