The Power of Decision: Your Path to Freedom and Achievement
In the Nordic countries, we have a saying: "There is no bad weather, only bad clothing." This simple phrase embodies a powerful mindset that has guided generations through harsh winters and challenging circumstances. It represents a fundamental truth I've observed in my 20 years as a leader and mentor: our decisions, not our circumstances, determine our destiny.
The Single Most Important Mental Move
Throughout my journey guiding individuals toward more meaningful and fulfilling lives, I've discovered one mental activity that can transform every aspect of your existence in an instant: making a decision.
Think about the areas where you feel stuck right now. Perhaps you're contemplating what your life's purpose truly is, wondering what kind of people you want to surround yourself with, or considering taking a leap toward freedom by starting your own business or embarking on extended travel. The difference between those who remain trapped in indecision and those who move forward isn't resources or perfect circumstances—it's the willingness to decide.
As my mentor Bob Proctor wisely taught, "DECIDE RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE WITH WHATEVER YOU'VE GOT." This principle has transformed my life and the lives of hundreds of clients I've worked with across Europe.
What I've discovered is that making decisions isn't about forcing yourself to be something you're not. It's about allowing the Essence-of-Life that already exists within you to express itself more fully. This life essence doesn't need to grow or improve; it's already perfect. What needs to grow is your recognition of it, and that growth happens naturally when you stop straining and simply be yourself, only more so.
Looking for a career change? Read this article on Career change in your 30s-50s, How to do it safely and correctly
Why We Struggle with Decisions
In my work with people seeking more meaningful lives, I've observed that indecision rarely stems from a lack of information. Rather, it comes from one of three sources:
- Fear of making the wrong choice
- Waiting for perfect circumstances
- Low self-confidence
The mental state of ambivalence holding contradictory feelings toward the same objective creates internal conflict that paralyzes us. Should I continue my current lifestyle or pursue the freedom of entrepreneurship? Should I stay in relationships that drain me or seek connections with people who energize me? Should I remain in my comfortable routine or embark on that extended journey I've been dreaming about?
These opposing forces create mental warfare that drains your energy and prevents forward movement. The solution isn't more information it's a decision.
What's fascinating is that this internal struggle comes not from any real limitation but from focusing on what we lack rather than recognizing the infinite resources already within us. As Troward observed, "The outer self is the surface growth of that individuality which lies concealed far down in the deeps below, and which is none other than the Spirit-of-Life which underlies all forms of manifestation."
The Nordic Approach to Decision-Making
In Nordic culture, we value something called "lagom" finding the right balance and appropriate measure. This doesn't mean compromise or mediocrity. Rather, it reflects the wisdom of making decisions aligned with your authentic values rather than external pressures.
When faced with important life decisions, I guide my clients to consider these fundamental questions:
- What do I truly want? (Not what others expect or what seems reasonable)
- What would I decide if I knew I couldn't fail?
- Does this choice align with my vision of freedom?
- What kind of people do I want in my life? (Clients, colleagues, friends, partners)
- How will this decision expand my experience of living?
These questions cut through the noise and connect you with your inner wisdom, which always knows the right path forward.
Daily Rituals: Reinforcing Your Decisions
Making a decision is powerful, but maintaining your commitment requires daily reinforcement. This is why I recommend specific morning and evening rituals that will rocket fuel your development:
Morning Ritual:
- Write your goal by hand 5x
- Write down at least 10 things you are happy and grateful for
- Write down all the points in your life standard/philosophy
- Write down your 10-20 "I am" statements—who you are in your goal
- Study an article or a book
- Say out loud your goal card while looking at yourself in the mirror for 3 minutes
These practices aren't merely motivational techniques they're powerful neurological tools that reprogram your subconscious mind to support your decisions rather than sabotage them.
Don't Let Circumstances Dictate Your Decisions
The greatest stumbling block to effective decision-making is allowing current circumstances to limit your vision. I've worked with countless individuals who would have never found their path to freedom if they had waited for perfect circumstances.
When John F. Kennedy decided America would put a man on the moon, he didn't first confirm they had the technology or resources to accomplish it. He made the decision, and the resources followed. And the decision was committed – he did not change it.
I've seen clients make life-altering decisions that seemed impossible at first glance:
- A corporate executive who decided to start her own business to create the freedom to work with clients who truly inspired her
- A family who decided to spend a year traveling through Asia and South America, deepening their bonds and expanding their worldview
- A professional who decided to completely restructure their life around what brought them joy rather than what society expected
None of these people had perfect circumstances when they decided. They simply made the decision that their vision of freedom was non-negotiable, and the path revealed itself step by step.
The Freedom That Follows Decision
There's a unique peace that comes with clear decision-making. The mental energy previously consumed by ambivalence becomes available for creative problem-solving and implementation.
In Nordic culture, we have a concept called "friluftsliv" a commitment to connecting with nature and open spaces. This philosophy extends to our mental landscape as well. When you clear the clutter of indecision, you create open space for inspiration and growth.
As Thomas Troward taught, "It is because we are trying to be or do something which is not natural to us that we experience weariness and labour." When you align your decisions with your true nature, life becomes not a struggle but "a perpetual joy to ourselves, and we shall radiate light and life wherever we go."
What I've discovered in my work is that true freedom comes not from forcing a particular outcome but from allowing your authentic self to naturally expand and express. This expansion follows the path of joy, and when we follow that path, we find we accomplish more with less strain and stress.
Begin With Your Vision of Freedom
The foundation of powerful decision-making is a clear vision of the freedom you desire. As Helen Keller wisely noted, "The most pathetic person in the world is a person who has their sight but no vision."
Take time today to envision your ideal life:
- What would true freedom look like for you?
- What kind of work would bring you joy and fulfilment?
- What types of people would you choose to serve and connect with?
- Where in the world would you spend your time?
- What experiences would you create for yourself and loved ones?
- What impact would you make in the world?
Don't worry about how you'll achieve this vision. That comes later. First, decide what you want with absolute clarity and commitment. Your vision of freedom is the compass that will guide all your subsequent decisions.
Remember that growth is a continuous process. As Troward reminds us, "We cannot do next month's growth without first doing this month's." The path unfolds one step at a time. When you do what you are able to do today, it naturally opens the way for you to do something better tomorrow.
Advanced Decision-Making
Once you've developed the habit of making clear decisions, you can advance to making decisions ahead of time. This eliminates the mental energy wasted on repetitive choices.
For example, I made a decision years ago never to participate in conversations about why something cannot be done. This saves me countless hours that would otherwise be spent in unproductive negativity.
What advance decisions would serve you?
- How you'll respond to setbacks
- Your non-negotiable daily practices
- Boundaries around your time and energy
- Your approach to difficult conversations
These preset decisions become your operating system, allowing you to navigate life's complexities with greater ease and consistency.
My Challenge to You
Today, I challenge you to make one significant decision you've been postponing. Remember, you don't need all the resources or answers. You just need clarity about what you want and the courage to commit.
As I often tell my clients: "One day or Day One. You decide." This simple phrase captures the essence of transformation. You can keep saying "One day I'll make that change" or you can declare "This is Day One" of your new path.
In the words of William James: "Compared to what we ought to be, we are making use of only a small part of our physical and mental resources."
You possess untapped potential waiting to be developed through the power of decision. Begin today there's never any time better than the present. Be all that you are capable of being.
Interested in learning more? Book a free strategy call with Christer
To Your Success
Christer Johnsen is a mentor with 20 years of experience as a leader and coach, specializing in guiding individuals toward greater freedom through intentional life design, helping entrepreneurs build meaningful businesses that align with their values, and supporting people in creating lives of purpose and fulfilment.
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The Power of Decision: Your Path to Freedom and Achievement
In the Nordic countries, we have a saying: "There is no bad weather, only bad clothing." This simple phrase embodies a powerful mindset that has guided generations through harsh winters and challenging circumstances. It represents a fundamental truth I've observed in my 20 years as a leader and mentor: our decisions, not our circumstances, determine our destiny.
The Single Most Important Mental Move
Throughout my journey guiding individuals toward more meaningful and fulfilling lives, I've discovered one mental activity that can transform every aspect of your existence in an instant: making a decision.
Think about the areas where you feel stuck right now. Perhaps you're contemplating what your life's purpose truly is, wondering what kind of people you want to surround yourself with, or considering taking a leap toward freedom by starting your own business or embarking on extended travel. The difference between those who remain trapped in indecision and those who move forward isn't resources or perfect circumstances—it's the willingness to decide.
As my mentor Bob Proctor wisely taught, "DECIDE RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE WITH WHATEVER YOU'VE GOT." This principle has transformed my life and the lives of hundreds of clients I've worked with across Europe.
What I've discovered is that making decisions isn't about forcing yourself to be something you're not. It's about allowing the Essence-of-Life that already exists within you to express itself more fully. This life essence doesn't need to grow or improve; it's already perfect. What needs to grow is your recognition of it, and that growth happens naturally when you stop straining and simply be yourself, only more so.
Looking for a career change? Read this article on Career change in your 30s-50s, How to do it safely and correctly
Why We Struggle with Decisions
In my work with people seeking more meaningful lives, I've observed that indecision rarely stems from a lack of information. Rather, it comes from one of three sources:
- Fear of making the wrong choice
- Waiting for perfect circumstances
- Low self-confidence
The mental state of ambivalence holding contradictory feelings toward the same objective creates internal conflict that paralyzes us. Should I continue my current lifestyle or pursue the freedom of entrepreneurship? Should I stay in relationships that drain me or seek connections with people who energize me? Should I remain in my comfortable routine or embark on that extended journey I've been dreaming about?
These opposing forces create mental warfare that drains your energy and prevents forward movement. The solution isn't more information it's a decision.
What's fascinating is that this internal struggle comes not from any real limitation but from focusing on what we lack rather than recognizing the infinite resources already within us. As Troward observed, "The outer self is the surface growth of that individuality which lies concealed far down in the deeps below, and which is none other than the Spirit-of-Life which underlies all forms of manifestation."
The Nordic Approach to Decision-Making
In Nordic culture, we value something called "lagom" finding the right balance and appropriate measure. This doesn't mean compromise or mediocrity. Rather, it reflects the wisdom of making decisions aligned with your authentic values rather than external pressures.
When faced with important life decisions, I guide my clients to consider these fundamental questions:
- What do I truly want? (Not what others expect or what seems reasonable)
- What would I decide if I knew I couldn't fail?
- Does this choice align with my vision of freedom?
- What kind of people do I want in my life? (Clients, colleagues, friends, partners)
- How will this decision expand my experience of living?
These questions cut through the noise and connect you with your inner wisdom, which always knows the right path forward.
Daily Rituals: Reinforcing Your Decisions
Making a decision is powerful, but maintaining your commitment requires daily reinforcement. This is why I recommend specific morning and evening rituals that will rocket fuel your development:
Morning Ritual:
- Write your goal by hand 5x
- Write down at least 10 things you are happy and grateful for
- Write down all the points in your life standard/philosophy
- Write down your 10-20 "I am" statements—who you are in your goal
- Study an article or a book
- Say out loud your goal card while looking at yourself in the mirror for 3 minutes
These practices aren't merely motivational techniques they're powerful neurological tools that reprogram your subconscious mind to support your decisions rather than sabotage them.
Don't Let Circumstances Dictate Your Decisions
The greatest stumbling block to effective decision-making is allowing current circumstances to limit your vision. I've worked with countless individuals who would have never found their path to freedom if they had waited for perfect circumstances.
When John F. Kennedy decided America would put a man on the moon, he didn't first confirm they had the technology or resources to accomplish it. He made the decision, and the resources followed. And the decision was committed – he did not change it.
I've seen clients make life-altering decisions that seemed impossible at first glance:
- A corporate executive who decided to start her own business to create the freedom to work with clients who truly inspired her
- A family who decided to spend a year traveling through Asia and South America, deepening their bonds and expanding their worldview
- A professional who decided to completely restructure their life around what brought them joy rather than what society expected
None of these people had perfect circumstances when they decided. They simply made the decision that their vision of freedom was non-negotiable, and the path revealed itself step by step.
The Freedom That Follows Decision
There's a unique peace that comes with clear decision-making. The mental energy previously consumed by ambivalence becomes available for creative problem-solving and implementation.
In Nordic culture, we have a concept called "friluftsliv" a commitment to connecting with nature and open spaces. This philosophy extends to our mental landscape as well. When you clear the clutter of indecision, you create open space for inspiration and growth.
As Thomas Troward taught, "It is because we are trying to be or do something which is not natural to us that we experience weariness and labour." When you align your decisions with your true nature, life becomes not a struggle but "a perpetual joy to ourselves, and we shall radiate light and life wherever we go."
What I've discovered in my work is that true freedom comes not from forcing a particular outcome but from allowing your authentic self to naturally expand and express. This expansion follows the path of joy, and when we follow that path, we find we accomplish more with less strain and stress.
Begin With Your Vision of Freedom
The foundation of powerful decision-making is a clear vision of the freedom you desire. As Helen Keller wisely noted, "The most pathetic person in the world is a person who has their sight but no vision."
Take time today to envision your ideal life:
- What would true freedom look like for you?
- What kind of work would bring you joy and fulfilment?
- What types of people would you choose to serve and connect with?
- Where in the world would you spend your time?
- What experiences would you create for yourself and loved ones?
- What impact would you make in the world?
Don't worry about how you'll achieve this vision. That comes later. First, decide what you want with absolute clarity and commitment. Your vision of freedom is the compass that will guide all your subsequent decisions.
Remember that growth is a continuous process. As Troward reminds us, "We cannot do next month's growth without first doing this month's." The path unfolds one step at a time. When you do what you are able to do today, it naturally opens the way for you to do something better tomorrow.
Advanced Decision-Making
Once you've developed the habit of making clear decisions, you can advance to making decisions ahead of time. This eliminates the mental energy wasted on repetitive choices.
For example, I made a decision years ago never to participate in conversations about why something cannot be done. This saves me countless hours that would otherwise be spent in unproductive negativity.
What advance decisions would serve you?
- How you'll respond to setbacks
- Your non-negotiable daily practices
- Boundaries around your time and energy
- Your approach to difficult conversations
These preset decisions become your operating system, allowing you to navigate life's complexities with greater ease and consistency.
My Challenge to You
Today, I challenge you to make one significant decision you've been postponing. Remember, you don't need all the resources or answers. You just need clarity about what you want and the courage to commit.
As I often tell my clients: "One day or Day One. You decide." This simple phrase captures the essence of transformation. You can keep saying "One day I'll make that change" or you can declare "This is Day One" of your new path.
In the words of William James: "Compared to what we ought to be, we are making use of only a small part of our physical and mental resources."
You possess untapped potential waiting to be developed through the power of decision. Begin today there's never any time better than the present. Be all that you are capable of being.
Interested in learning more? Book a free strategy call with Christer
To Your Success
Christer Johnsen is a mentor with 20 years of experience as a leader and coach, specializing in guiding individuals toward greater freedom through intentional life design, helping entrepreneurs build meaningful businesses that align with their values, and supporting people in creating lives of purpose and fulfilment.
"Working with Christer has been an amazing experience. His coaching approach helps you see things from a different perspective and focus on what truly matters. The connections with like-minded people created in his seminars are invaluable for personal growth."
— Anna Karin
Level Up Participant
The Power of Decision: Your Path to Freedom and Achievement
In the Nordic countries, we have a saying: "There is no bad weather, only bad clothing." This simple phrase embodies a powerful mindset that has guided generations through harsh winters and challenging circumstances. It represents a fundamental truth I've observed in my 20 years as a leader and mentor: our decisions, not our circumstances, determine our destiny.
The Single Most Important Mental Move
Throughout my journey guiding individuals toward more meaningful and fulfilling lives, I've discovered one mental activity that can transform every aspect of your existence in an instant: making a decision.
Think about the areas where you feel stuck right now. Perhaps you're contemplating what your life's purpose truly is, wondering what kind of people you want to surround yourself with, or considering taking a leap toward freedom by starting your own business or embarking on extended travel. The difference between those who remain trapped in indecision and those who move forward isn't resources or perfect circumstances—it's the willingness to decide.
As my mentor Bob Proctor wisely taught, "DECIDE RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE WITH WHATEVER YOU'VE GOT." This principle has transformed my life and the lives of hundreds of clients I've worked with across Europe.
What I've discovered is that making decisions isn't about forcing yourself to be something you're not. It's about allowing the Essence-of-Life that already exists within you to express itself more fully. This life essence doesn't need to grow or improve; it's already perfect. What needs to grow is your recognition of it, and that growth happens naturally when you stop straining and simply be yourself, only more so.
Looking for a career change? Read this article on Career change in your 30s-50s, How to do it safely and correctly
Why We Struggle with Decisions
In my work with people seeking more meaningful lives, I've observed that indecision rarely stems from a lack of information. Rather, it comes from one of three sources:
- Fear of making the wrong choice
- Waiting for perfect circumstances
- Low self-confidence
The mental state of ambivalence holding contradictory feelings toward the same objective creates internal conflict that paralyzes us. Should I continue my current lifestyle or pursue the freedom of entrepreneurship? Should I stay in relationships that drain me or seek connections with people who energize me? Should I remain in my comfortable routine or embark on that extended journey I've been dreaming about?
These opposing forces create mental warfare that drains your energy and prevents forward movement. The solution isn't more information it's a decision.
What's fascinating is that this internal struggle comes not from any real limitation but from focusing on what we lack rather than recognizing the infinite resources already within us. As Troward observed, "The outer self is the surface growth of that individuality which lies concealed far down in the deeps below, and which is none other than the Spirit-of-Life which underlies all forms of manifestation."
The Nordic Approach to Decision-Making
In Nordic culture, we value something called "lagom" finding the right balance and appropriate measure. This doesn't mean compromise or mediocrity. Rather, it reflects the wisdom of making decisions aligned with your authentic values rather than external pressures.
When faced with important life decisions, I guide my clients to consider these fundamental questions:
- What do I truly want? (Not what others expect or what seems reasonable)
- What would I decide if I knew I couldn't fail?
- Does this choice align with my vision of freedom?
- What kind of people do I want in my life? (Clients, colleagues, friends, partners)
- How will this decision expand my experience of living?
These questions cut through the noise and connect you with your inner wisdom, which always knows the right path forward.
Daily Rituals: Reinforcing Your Decisions
Making a decision is powerful, but maintaining your commitment requires daily reinforcement. This is why I recommend specific morning and evening rituals that will rocket fuel your development:
Morning Ritual:
- Write your goal by hand 5x
- Write down at least 10 things you are happy and grateful for
- Write down all the points in your life standard/philosophy
- Write down your 10-20 "I am" statements—who you are in your goal
- Study an article or a book
- Say out loud your goal card while looking at yourself in the mirror for 3 minutes
These practices aren't merely motivational techniques they're powerful neurological tools that reprogram your subconscious mind to support your decisions rather than sabotage them.
Don't Let Circumstances Dictate Your Decisions
The greatest stumbling block to effective decision-making is allowing current circumstances to limit your vision. I've worked with countless individuals who would have never found their path to freedom if they had waited for perfect circumstances.
When John F. Kennedy decided America would put a man on the moon, he didn't first confirm they had the technology or resources to accomplish it. He made the decision, and the resources followed. And the decision was committed – he did not change it.
I've seen clients make life-altering decisions that seemed impossible at first glance:
- A corporate executive who decided to start her own business to create the freedom to work with clients who truly inspired her
- A family who decided to spend a year traveling through Asia and South America, deepening their bonds and expanding their worldview
- A professional who decided to completely restructure their life around what brought them joy rather than what society expected
None of these people had perfect circumstances when they decided. They simply made the decision that their vision of freedom was non-negotiable, and the path revealed itself step by step.
The Freedom That Follows Decision
There's a unique peace that comes with clear decision-making. The mental energy previously consumed by ambivalence becomes available for creative problem-solving and implementation.
In Nordic culture, we have a concept called "friluftsliv" a commitment to connecting with nature and open spaces. This philosophy extends to our mental landscape as well. When you clear the clutter of indecision, you create open space for inspiration and growth.
As Thomas Troward taught, "It is because we are trying to be or do something which is not natural to us that we experience weariness and labour." When you align your decisions with your true nature, life becomes not a struggle but "a perpetual joy to ourselves, and we shall radiate light and life wherever we go."
What I've discovered in my work is that true freedom comes not from forcing a particular outcome but from allowing your authentic self to naturally expand and express. This expansion follows the path of joy, and when we follow that path, we find we accomplish more with less strain and stress.
Begin With Your Vision of Freedom
The foundation of powerful decision-making is a clear vision of the freedom you desire. As Helen Keller wisely noted, "The most pathetic person in the world is a person who has their sight but no vision."
Take time today to envision your ideal life:
- What would true freedom look like for you?
- What kind of work would bring you joy and fulfilment?
- What types of people would you choose to serve and connect with?
- Where in the world would you spend your time?
- What experiences would you create for yourself and loved ones?
- What impact would you make in the world?
Don't worry about how you'll achieve this vision. That comes later. First, decide what you want with absolute clarity and commitment. Your vision of freedom is the compass that will guide all your subsequent decisions.
Remember that growth is a continuous process. As Troward reminds us, "We cannot do next month's growth without first doing this month's." The path unfolds one step at a time. When you do what you are able to do today, it naturally opens the way for you to do something better tomorrow.
Advanced Decision-Making
Once you've developed the habit of making clear decisions, you can advance to making decisions ahead of time. This eliminates the mental energy wasted on repetitive choices.
For example, I made a decision years ago never to participate in conversations about why something cannot be done. This saves me countless hours that would otherwise be spent in unproductive negativity.
What advance decisions would serve you?
- How you'll respond to setbacks
- Your non-negotiable daily practices
- Boundaries around your time and energy
- Your approach to difficult conversations
These preset decisions become your operating system, allowing you to navigate life's complexities with greater ease and consistency.
My Challenge to You
Today, I challenge you to make one significant decision you've been postponing. Remember, you don't need all the resources or answers. You just need clarity about what you want and the courage to commit.
As I often tell my clients: "One day or Day One. You decide." This simple phrase captures the essence of transformation. You can keep saying "One day I'll make that change" or you can declare "This is Day One" of your new path.
In the words of William James: "Compared to what we ought to be, we are making use of only a small part of our physical and mental resources."
You possess untapped potential waiting to be developed through the power of decision. Begin today there's never any time better than the present. Be all that you are capable of being.
Interested in learning more? Book a free strategy call with Christer
To Your Success
Christer Johnsen is a mentor with 20 years of experience as a leader and coach, specializing in guiding individuals toward greater freedom through intentional life design, helping entrepreneurs build meaningful businesses that align with their values, and supporting people in creating lives of purpose and fulfilment.