Library of Wisdom - What's The Worst That Could Happen

What's The Worst That Could Happen?

A Simple Question That Could Change Your Life

By Erin Gjertsen

As with everything on My Spirit, read through this and if it resonates as true for you, have fun and do it! If not, continue exploring until you find something that is right for you.

This is about choice and fear. Fear of making mistakes, the wrong decision, taking the wrong action, the wrong turn in your life. How could I know if the choice I made would be the right one?

My dad gave me one answer. It is only a single question, but it set me free from a lot of self induced torment.

When I was younger, I had a terrible time making decisions. I had been taught the I could not be trusted to make the 'right' decisions, that I had very poor judgment, etc. This all came with lots of discipline. Consequently, as I grew up, I would have difficulty choosing something as simple as a meal at a restaurant. Once I found a dish I liked, I ordered the same thing every time out of unreasonable fear. Making a mistake or being 'wrong' was akin to death. It was a programmed response to choice.

At one point, I was living with my dad, in San Diego, CA. One day we were talking about making choices and I asked him how to know which choice is the right choice. He spoke some words that have carried me forward from that day. I share them with you now.

My dad said if you have something you want to do, but you aren't sure if it is the right thing, you just have to ask yourself one question.

"Ask yourself what's the worst that could happen?
Then, ask yourself if you could handle that.
If yes, then go ahead and do it.
If no, don't."

Back then, this was a godsend for me and I no longer felt unable to make decisions or take action, because I might make the 'wrong' choice. I would just say "what's the worst that could happen and could I handle that?"

These days, I know that there are no mistakes, no wrong choices, and I take actions that I am aligned with (mostly). I also have access to my inner guidance. I still ask the question, from time to time, as does my husband.

I have had people tell me this is a bad way to make choices. For me, it has been very helpful, especially when it was a difficult choice. I am grateful to my dad for sharing that bit of advice with me. It served me well for many years. Perhaps, it may serve you, as well. If it resonates with you, feel free to make use of it until something better comes along. What's the worst that could happen?