Indecision as a Source of Anxiety

Indecision Paralysis

One of the biggest and most paralyzing sources of anxiety in our lives is, without a doubt, the inability to make decisions.

Indecisiveness not only stagnates us, but also causes us to miss out on incredibly valuable opportunities that life presents to us.

Many people procrastinate for much of their lives because they are terrified of making a decision and making a mistake.

This fear of the potential negative consequences of our choices is what directly feeds the cycle of anxiety.

The Story of the Bird in the Cage. The Opportunity

To illustrate this point, we can use the story of a little bird who lived in a cage with his owner, Margaret.

Although Margaret gave him food and love, the little bird felt very sad as he watched the world from the window.

He longed to fly, to meet other birds, and to experience the freedom he saw outside, away from his cage.

One day, a gust of wind blew the cage to the ground and the door opened, presenting him with his big opportunity.

The Internal Debate. Fears and Procrastination

At first, the little bird was filled with excitement, dreaming of all he could do and see in the outside world.

Immediately after, however, his mind filled with doubts, fears, and insecurities that completely paralyzed him.

He began to think, "What if I don't get a little bird? What if I don't like the outside food?"

He also thought, "What if a bigger bird attacks me and eats me? What if I want to go back and can't?"

He remained stuck in an internal debate, weighing the pros and cons, unable to make a clear decision.

The Closed Window of Opportunity

While the little bird was paralyzed by his indecision, his owner, Margaret, returned home from her shopping.

Seeing the open cage and the bird about to fly, ran quickly, and closed the cage door.

The window of opportunity that life had offered him had closed forever due to his own paralysis.

The Lesson of the Story. Acting Despite Fear

This story teaches us how procrastination, fear, and indecision cause us to miss the best opportunities.

The bird had the chance to achieve the freedom he so desired, but hi