I was staring at a plethora of options at the paint store and quickly became overwhelmed with the number of choices and the nuances between shades. I could tell that one sample was different than another but have no real understanding as to the impact that the gradation has. Will I prefer swatch one when it is on my wall or would I be happier with choice number two (or 32 or 222)?
In the scheme of life, paint is an insignificant and minor decision but the lack of a “right” answer reminded me of an article I just read in Sports Illustrated*. Bryce Love shared his thinking that surrounded his decision to play football his senior year at Stanford University instead of participating in the NFL draft. He weighed the pros and cons – to continue his education toward his goal of becoming a pediatrician – or to capitalize on another dream while he has the stats and health to make millions. It is a predicament for anyone, let alone a 21-year old.
In the end, after speaking with his inner circle as well as players who stayed in college and others who entered the draft, he opted to return to Stanford. “No one pushed me in any direction, but they all said the same thing,” wrote Love, “that I can’t make a wrong decision as long as I follow my heart.”
It is a fallacy to believe that a “right” decision exists. In so many cases, from paint selection to career plans, there will be pros and cons on the path that comes after either choice. Don’t waste too much of your energy searching for that elusive false hope of certainty. Make your best call and move onward.
*”Sundays Can Wait: Why I turned down the NFL for one more season of college ball,” Point After section by Bryce Love, Sports Illustrated, August 27-September 3, 2018, p. 116.
