To Decide Is to Cut Away: The Power of Decision in Life, Leadership, and Communication

Have you ever wondered where the word “decision” comes from?

Its roots stretch back to the Latin verb decidere, which literally means “to cut off.”
This etymology holds a powerful truth:

To decide is not merely to choose. It is to cut away—to remove the noise, the hesitation, and the infinite “what ifs.”

In our modern world, we often romanticize options. We think freedom lies in keeping all doors open. But too many open doors can be a trap. And in that trap, uncertainty thrives.

Indecision Breeds Anxiety

We rarely talk about how much anxiety is tied to indecision.

We think we're protecting ourselves when we delay a choice—whether it’s switching careers, ending a relationship, launching a project, or confronting a tough conversation.

But in truth, sitting in limbo often amplifies the pressure.
The longer we hesitate, the heavier the burden becomes.
The brain loops. The fear grows. And instead of clarity, we find ourselves in chronic inner conflict.

When you make a decision, you begin to cut through that fog. You create direction. You relieve tension.

Even a small, imperfect decision can reduce anxiety—because it gives the mind something to work with. It replaces paralysis with progress.

Decision-Making as a Leadership Skill

In leadership, indecision is one of the most subtle but dangerous barriers.

Great leaders don’t have all the answers—but they know how to decide and take responsibility.
They don’t just gather data; they synthesize it into action.
They don’t just listen; they communicate clearly what needs to happen next.

Indecision at the top creates confusion at every level.
When leaders fail to commit, teams drift. Morale drops. Energy scatters.

A clear decision is a signal of trustworthiness. It shows people where you stand and invites them to align or respond.

Whether you're a manager, entrepreneur, or community leader, your ability to make thoughtful decisions directly impacts your influence and credibility.

Life Is a Series of Decisions

In life, we often avoid choices because they feel like permanent losses.
Choosing one path means letting go of another—and that can be scary.

But every major growth moment in life comes after a cut.

• The decision to leave the comfort zone.

• The decision to say no so you can protect your yes.

• The decision to finally speak your truth.

• The decision to stop negotiating with fear.

Every decision is a mirror reflecting who you are becoming.

You don’t have to be perfect.
You don’t have to be fearless.
You just have to be willing.

Willing to act.
Willing to commit.
Willing to shape your life through conscious, courageous choices.

Communication and Decision-Making Go Hand in Hand

We often separate decision-making from communication. But they are deeply connected.

When you make a decision, you clarify your message.
You stop hedging, stop wavering, and start showing up with clarity and conviction.

In relationships, unclear communication often stems from a deeper indecision—about what we want, what we feel, or what we’re willing to tolerate.

When we’re not clear with ourselves, we can’t be clear with others.

Strong communication begins with internal alignment. And that alignment begins with a decision.

The Path Forward

So if you're feeling anxious, stuck, or foggy…
Ask yourself:

• What am I avoiding deciding on?

• What truth am I dancing around?

• What could I release—cut away—in order to move forward?

You don’t need certainty to choose.
You just need commitment.
You just need courage.

Decide.
Not because the road will be easy,
But because staying still is harder.

And remember, every decision is an invitation to grow.

MM