The Power of a Decision

Transcribed by Devora Shifrin

YOLO (you only live once), is a commonly used phrase to encourage people to seize the moment and experience new things while they still can. The truth is, however, that we only live each moment once, every minute is fleeting. The lasting effects of a moment lives on through the decisions that we make. All it takes is a single choice to alter the course of our lives.

Interestingly, the Latin etymology of the word ‘decision’ is to ‘cut off’, which clearly demonstrates this point. The purpose of deciding, is to let go of any alternative option, thereby pursuing the chosen course of action. By cutting off the possibility for failure, fear, or any thought that tries to convince you that you can’t; utilize the quality of ‘decision’ to make each moment into a new beginning, unencumbered by the limitations of the past.

Every obstacle presents an opportunity to connect with our Creator. By elevating our burden to God and accepting what is beyond our control, we can find meaning in the pain, frustration, and trauma. If we believe in the justice of God, we will be fortified with the knowledge that everything that happens is divinely ordained and is for our ultimate benefit, even when our plans don’t goes as expected.

The key to moving forward is first accepting the reality of who we are and the situations that we’ve experienced. Accepting what is, allows us to be mindful of the present moment. Reflecting on the transient nature of our physical existence provides us with the perspective we need to let go of the thoughts, emotions, and experiences that don’t serve us in this lifetime.

Ask yourself, what would you do tomorrow if you were unable to fail? What would your life look like if you stopped living in the past? What can you do in this moment to rebuild, despite how the day began?

By understanding the value of every moment, every day, every decision; we become empowered with the prospects of impacting our lives and the lives of others in just an instant. If we can change the way we interpret our circumstances, remove our own limitations from the equation of greatness, we will be able to extend each moment, each day, with the long-lasting and meaningful impact of our choices. By making the decision to ‘cut off’ from the past, we can create space for a better future.

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Gedale Fenster, a Miami-based entrepreneur and motivational speaker, is the founder and CEO of the People’s Insurance Claim Center and Evolutions Treatment Center. He has also established the Breslov Center, where he teaches. He hosts a series of daily and weekly online lectures at http://www.gedalefenster.com/