3 Micro-habits to reduce anxiety before a big decision
We’ve all been there—that moment before making a big decision when anxiety creeps in and makes us doubt everything we've thought about doing. Whether it’s deciding on a career change, making an important investment, or navigating a personal life decision, the pressure can feel overwhelming.
The weight of what could go wrong often clouds our judgment, making it harder to trust ourselves and our decisions.
But here’s the good news: you don’t need to overhaul your life to handle decision-making better. By going for some small changes—micro-habits—you can reduce anxiety and create a sense of calm in the face of uncertainty.
Today we’ll explore three simple, yet effective, micro-habits that I suggest including in your routine to help reduce anxiety before making any kind of big decision.
1. 5-minute breathing exercise
Anxiety is often linked to an overwhelming and confusing physical response—quickened heart rate, shallow breathing, and a tense body. To reset your nervous system, taking just five minutes to engage in a mindful breathing exercise can do the trick. It allows you to calm the mind and refocus on the present moment, instead of the “what ifs” that trigger stress.
What to do:
Sit or stand comfortably.
Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four.
Hold your breath for four counts.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of six.
Repeat this cycle for five minutes.
The Impact: By slowing down your breathing and calming your mind, you’ll feel more centered and clear-headed, making it easier to make decisions based on logic and long-term goals, rather than anxiety.
2. Simplify the decision into smaller steps
One of the reasons we feel anxious about big decisions is the overwhelming sense of having to do it all at once. In reality, no decision needs to be tackled to its fullest right away, you can reduce the pressure by breaking the decision into smaller, more manageable steps.
How to do it:
Identify key aspects of the decision you need to make.
Break each of these down into smaller, actionable tasks.
Focus on completing one small task at a time.
This micro-habit allows you to focus on the immediate next step, rather than feeling daunted by the whole process. When each task feels more attainable, anxiety naturally decreases.
3. Make time on your calendar for reflection
When we need to make a tough decision, our minds tend to race. The fear of making the wrong choice takes center stage, preventing us from accessing our inner wisdom. By making some time on your day to reflect you support your mind with space to stay calm and weigh your decision-making options without the sense of overwhelm.
How can it be done:
Set aside 10-15 minutes at the end of each day for quiet reflection.
Journal about your decision, Writing down on a piece of paper the pros and cons, your feelings, and any questions or doubts.
Trust your intuition and give yourself permission to feel uncertain during this time.
The Impact: Regular reflection will provide clarity and give you the emotional space to separate your fears from what truly matters.
Small habits make way to big changes
Anxiety around big decisions doesn’t have to paralyze you. By incorporating these three micro-habits—breathing exercises, breaking down the decision into smaller tasks, and setting time for reflection—you can manage the pressure and make decisions that align with your best interests.
Remember, the key is not in drastic changes, but in consistency. If you’re currently facing a big decision, try incorporating these habits into your routine. In time, you’ll notice a shift from feeling overwhelmed to feeling empowered.
Do you have any micro-habits that help reduce anxiety when making big decisions? Share your tips and let’s continue the conversation!