Making Big Change: A Step by Step Guide for Conscious Decision Making and Living a Fulfilling Life

I recently read an article about Andy Jassy, and how when he was offered the opportunity to take over for Jeff Bezos, he asked to speak to his wife. And the incredible emotional intelligence this man had to really stop and think about the decision and make it together with the person he had chosen as his life partner, and the deep root this simple action has in emotional intelligence. 

(You can read the article here) https://www.inc.com/justin-bariso/when-asked-to-become-amazons-new-ceo-andy-jassy-wanted-to-speak-with-1-person-first-its-a-lesson-in-emotional-intelligence.html#:~:text=%22I%20really%20wasn't%20thinking,night%2C%22%20Jassy%20explained.)

As an award-winning personal branding and etiquette advisor, certified in positive psychology, NLP, and emotional intelligence, I've guided many through the labyrinth of major life transitions and I would love to dig into the actions Andy Jassy took before taking over for Jeff Bezos and break them down to assist in leading you through change you may be facing in your life - big or small, personal or professional whatever it is, how you approach this change can profoundly impact your life and your attitude towards the change. 

Here’s a structured approach to making conscious and well-informed decisions when facing big changes.

1. Take Time to Think About the Change

The first thing Andy Jassy did was ask for time. Many times, when faced with change, especially exciting change, we are buzzing with emotion. In all situations, it is important not to react emotionally but to act intentionally. Rushing into a decision emotively can lead to unforeseen consequences. So it is crucial to take a step back and reflect to make sure that you do not react to the situation out of emotion, positive or negative, and you make an intentional decision that aligns with your values and goals. 

Whenever you are faced with a decision, give yourself the space to contemplate the potential change and its implications. This period of reflection allows you to separate initial emotional reactions from more thoughtful, reasoned considerations.

2. Take time to do self-inquiry and reflect on your thoughts and feelings regarding the change

You can do this in many ways, but my personal favorite method is journaling.

Andy Jassy didn't mention this, however, I personally find self-reflection through journaling a powerful tool to work through and explore my feelings and thoughts regarding anything - but especially in the face of change. 

By engaging in this period of self-reflection and inquiry can help you clarify your thoughts, reveal hidden concerns, and highlight your aspirations.

Here are some suggestions of questions you can ask yourself:

• Why am I considering this change?
• What do I hope to achieve?
• What are the potential benefits and drawbacks?
• How does this change align with my long-term goals?
• What are the risks involved, and how can I mitigate them?
• How will this change affect my daily life and my loved ones?

By systematically reflecting and questioning yourself, you develop a clearer picture of your feelings regarding the change and the potential impact to wrap your head around it more, and prepare you for the next step, which Andy Jessy mentioned was the reason for needing some time before responding to Jeff Bezos.

3. Consult a Trusted Advisor

Before saying yes to the position, Andy Jassy asked Jeff Bezos for time to speak to his wife - which is the perfect idea. Taking time to speak to someone with whom you can have a real, meaningful conversation about your choice. 

Individuals you may consider consulting could be your partner, family, but it may also be a life coach, a mentor, or a professional advisor. The right person to speak to will be clear to you as when you think about speaking to them, you will feel confident and comfortable speaking with them, and you know that they will challenge your assumptions, ask probing questions, and help you explore the change from all angles.

4. Align the Change with Your Values

Although Andy Jassy did not divulge the conversation with his partner, I am sure the conversation helped him to determine that this change aligned with his true core values. 

So, do not be shy to make sure that before saying yes, you double-check that the change you will make aligns with your core values is vital for long-term satisfaction. For professional changes, consider if the new path supports your desired work-life balance and career aspirations. Does it bring you closer to achieving your professional goals? For personal changes, reflect on whether the shift supports your personal values and contributes to your journey toward being the best version of yourself.

Regularly check in with yourself during the transition to ensure that the change remains in harmony with your values and goals. This ongoing evaluation helps you stay aligned and make adjustments as needed.

This article was a true inspiration to thinking about the process of making conscious decisions during significant (or insignificant) life changes involves thoughtful reflection, thorough self-inquiry, and seeking objective guidance. It is as simple as being intentional and taking the time to think, asking your critical questions, journaling your thoughts, and consulting a trusted advisor or life partner to ensure that your choice is in alignment with your values. 

By following this guide, it will ensure that you are setting the foundation for a fulfilling and well-considered transition. Remember, the goal is not just to choose a path that looks or feels better on the surface, but one that truly resonates with who you are and where you want to go in life.