She Strengthens

Embracing the Power of Feelings in Decision-Making

As I sit here with my lovable companion, Barney, a deaf and blind chocolate cockapoo, I am reminded of the importance of listening to our emotions when making decisions. Barney’s journey from surviving Hurricane Harvey to finding a new home with me is a testament to the power of feelings in shaping our choices.

The Financial Implications

Adopting a senior dog with health issues may seem like a costly decision, especially for someone like me who still has student loans to pay off. However, I chose to prioritize my emotional well-being and provide a loving home to Barney. By doing the math and adjusting my budget, I can still contribute to my debt repayment while ensuring Barney receives the care he needs.

Beyond Rational Thinking

Our feelings often take a backseat to rational reasoning when it comes to decision-making. But what if I told you that research suggests otherwise? Neuroscientist Antonio Damasio’s study on brain lesions revealed that individuals without emotions were unable to make decisions, despite their rational thinking abilities. This highlights the crucial role feelings play in our ability to make choices.

Feelings as a Guiding Force

Historically, emotions have been seen as a hindrance to rational decision-making. However, this perspective overlooks the value of emotions in guiding our choices. By acknowledging and embracing our feelings, we can make decisions that align with our values and bring us happiness.

The Apology Epidemic

Personal finance bloggers often apologize for not being frugal enough or for making emotional decisions. But why should we apologize for being human? It’s time to stop seeking forgiveness for spending money on things that add value to our lives. Our purpose is to live well, not to fit into a predetermined mold of frugality.

Embracing Emotional Decision-Making

In conclusion, our feelings matter. They are not obstacles to successful decision-making, but rather the driving force behind our choices. By recognizing the importance of emotions, we can make decisions that bring us joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose. So, the next time you’re faced with a decision, don’t be afraid to listen to your heart – it might just lead you to a happier, more fulfilling life.