I've recently "flashed back" to some advice that a friend of mine gave me about 10 or 12 years ago, and have been striving to apply it more lately. Basically, his advice was this:
"When you're trying to make a decision, force your feelings about the issue to one extreme or the other, and act on the decision with vigor."
This is a bit like the mantra "Go big or stay home" that was popular a few years back. Basically, this philosophy provides a sort of focusing tool, helping you get out of the middle ground and take a decisive postion on the matter at hand. For example:
- Avoid ambivalence - decide whether you love or hate an idea before stating your opinion.
- Don't take on a task half-heartedly - decide that you are going to attack it with all your abilities, or decide not to do it at all.
- If you offer to help others - decide to give them your best, or don't offer your help.
- If you love someone - love them no matter what and make sure they always know it.
These are just a few examples, and everyone's decisions and circumstances are different. However, according to my friend, these kinds of "extreme" stances will help you live a life of vivid color and meaning, rather than one painted in shades of gray.
Another aspect of this we discussed at great length: What if you decide you hate something? Should you attack it with great vengeance? Usually, no -- just get past it, move away from it, and don't let the things you hate take over your life.
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