To read or not to read this blog about weighing up decisions...?

"You win some, you lose some" - a phrase often heard in Vegas, which is where I spent a(nother) week recently. 

I often have people tell me they don't think they'd like Vegas as they are not into gambling; and while I tell them there is plenty more to do there than hit the slots, there are of course some who take on Lady Luck and have a go.  It's the opportunity of a windfall that coaxes millions to the city each year, and for some it is a gamble well worth taking.

What about when it goes wrong?  To me losing on the tables can be justified as I only travel with money I intend to spend (lose).  I weigh up the enjoyment I get from a hand of blackjack with the enjoyment I may get from spending the money elsewhere, and I make my decision as to how much that enjoyment is worth. 

We do this in everyday life without realising. Our life is pretty much a whole game of risk vs potential gain. We decide what we are going to do based on a likely outcome, and the chance of that likely outcome. We should also remember that for everything we gain there is always a loss and vice versa, the trick is making our decisions based on an assumption as to the gain vs the loss, considering both likelihood and magnitude.

This isn't only the case when making life changing decisions, being aware of this can really affect everyday options.  To bring things down to a very basic level, I'm sure I'm not the only one who sees hotel toiletries as a bit of a treat.  To reference the Friends episode The one with Rachel's dream "Here's where you make your money back"  (flashback to Ross & Chandler and lots of maple candy).  

I used to grab the toiletries whenever I stayed away. I had boxes of them; they could be used in an emergency, and I felt if I didn't take them I was losing out. One box full became two, which became three. Suddenly it was a huge thing.  I was asked why I didn't just bin them and I responded that it would be a waste to, and then I would 'lose' having them.  It was pointed out that by getting rid I would be gaining a whole shelf of storage space in my rather storage sparse flat.  I weighed up which was more important to me and within a day they had been given away.

In a turbulent year I have made some huge decisions which have caused some substantial financial losses, however the possible quality of my gains has meant that I have concluded that those decisions were worth perusing. I know it might go wrong, but I also know that if it goes right it will be life changing.  Much like with my toiletries I have determined that my losses will have a more valuable payback.

I find that working through matters in this way wherever possible enables me to have a more balanced approach to my life, and keeps things in perspective. Being aware of the decisions I am making and the reasons for them also gives me comfort in my choices.  The more I love the decisions I make, the less I need others to love them. 

Try to think about this gain vs loss today; whether it be choosing your lunch option, meeting that potential partner for a drink, or deciding to stay at work one hour later - every single decision will have a loss and a gain attached. 

Take care, and always weigh up your options (or gamble) sensibly. 
Bu xx 

Oh, and for the record, I didn't win my millions - but it was worth every cent. 

BuBakes is committed to reducing the stigma attached to Mental Health, and personally donates 25p for every order received to MIND.  This is kindly matched by three generous supporters, meaning a £1 donation is made per order.  If you would like to find out more about MIND, or make a donation you can do so here. 

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