What are Second Thoughts?

Having second thoughts means reconsidering an issue previously decided. It is a natural reaction to making a decision, especially if the choice was made quickly or without having all the information. Second thoughts can be either a good or bad thing depending on the situation; while sometimes rethinking an issue can give you a more clear idea of your true feelings, it can also distract from your natural impulses and desires out of fear or anxiety.

It is very common to have second thoughts when making a big or important decision. Because humans naturally question their own powers of reasoning, it is not unusual to make a decision and then wonder if it was correct. Truthfully, since you have no way of knowing the future outcome of your decisions, judging whether the decision is correct is not cannot come until the situation has completely resolved itself.

Knowing when to pay attention to second thoughts is an important lesson to learn in life, one that may never be mastered. If you begin to reconsider your position on a decision or plan, ask yourself careful questions about what is motivating these thoughts: Have you gained new information that makes you feel anxious or afraid? Will changing your decision negatively affect people around you? How likely is it that the things you fear will come to pass?

Being careful when you initially make decisions can help ward off agonizing second thoughts. Try not to make serious decisions when you are sick, intoxicated or otherwise impaired. Also avoid major decisions when you are being pressured to make them; outside pressure can cause you to ignore your own feelings in order to get the pressure to stop. Plans or choices made under any of these conditions are probably not made with your best thinking ability in tact. Take the time you need to make decisions and you are more likely to make your choices in tune with your wants and needs.

If you are having second thoughts, it is likely because you are afraid of a negative outcome. This can be a genuine concern, but it can also be simply panic and insecurity. Take a deep breath or do something that relaxes you, and then ask yourself realistically how likely it is that disaster will strike. If it seems very likely, this may definitely be a time to listen to your instinct to change your mind.

Talking with a trusted friend or mentor about your mental conflict may help you work out the best answer for you. A second or third opinion may give you new insight into the situation and help you focus in on your true feelings. You may also want to check out online support groups or webpages to see the responses of people going through the same situation. Although ultimately, decisions about your life rest with you, knowing you are not alone can help calm you and get you to think more clearly.