Self-Determination and Decision-Making with Teru Nakashima

All about Self-esteem by Teru Nakashima, Japan

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FAQ on Self-Determination Based on Teru Nakashima's Teachings

Q1: What is self-determination, according to Teru Nakashima, and why is it important?

Nakashima describes self-determination as a power within us that blossoms like a flower. It's the ability to choose and decide for oneself, shaping one's own life. It's crucial because life is a one-time journey, and self-determination allows us to experience the joy of choosing our own path and cultivating our own unique "garden" of life. It fosters a sense of agency and ownership over our experiences.

Q2: What is the "Morning Choice Ritual," and how can it help cultivate self-determination?

The "Morning Choice Ritual" involves taking 15 minutes each morning to quietly reflect and decide what kind of day you truly want to have. Instead of immediately reacting to external demands or expectations, you intentionally choose the "color" of your day based on your own desires. This simple act is a first step in actively shaping your own experience and exercising self-determination from the start of the day.

Q3: Can you explain the "Reverse Vision Map" and its role in fostering self-determination?

The "Reverse Vision Map" is a creative exercise where you envision your ideal future self (e.g., one year from now) as a fully bloomed flower. You then work backward from that vision, identifying the monthly choices and actions needed to nurture that flower and bring it to fruition. It connects daily decisions to a larger, self-chosen goal, providing motivation and clarity in your path.

Q4: What is the purpose of the "Decision-Making Timer" technique, and how does it help overcome decision paralysis?

The "Decision-Making Timer" involves setting a 3-minute time limit to make a decision. The purpose is to combat the tendency to overthink and strive for perfection, which often leads to paralysis. By forcing yourself to make a decision within a limited timeframe, you learn to trust your intuition and reduce your fear of making the "wrong" choice, building confidence in your decision-making abilities.

Q5: How does the "Choice Tree" exercise work, and what makes it unique for growing self-determination?

The "Choice Tree" exercise visualizes life as a tree with branching paths representing different choices. At each branch, you consider the potential outcomes and, more importantly, how you might grow and develop as a person as a result of each option. This exercise emphasizes the personal growth aspect of decision-making, rather than solely focusing on external results, making it a unique way to foster self-determination.

Q6: What is the "Decision Journal," and how can it help in becoming more self-determined?

The "Decision Journal" is a daily practice where you record three decisions you made that day and reflect on whether those choices aligned with your true self. By examining your decisions in the context of your personal values and aspirations, you develop a deeper understanding of what "being yourself" means and refine your ability to make choices that are authentic and self-determined.

Q7: According to Nakashima, is it okay if the "flowers" (goals or choices) don't always grow as expected?

Yes, Nakashima emphasizes that setbacks and unexpected outcomes are a natural and valuable part of the process. Even when things don't go as planned, there are important lessons to be learned. This perspective encourages resilience and prevents discouragement, which is essential for maintaining a self-determined mindset.

Teru Nakashima, All about Self-esteem

Chapters

1. Self-Determination and Decision Making (00:00:00)

2. Cultivating Self-Determination Through Decision-Making (00:06:49)