Indecisiveness is a common human trait. We all face moments when we are unsure about what to do, or which path to take. It can be frustrating, confusing, and even paralyzing. The good news is that we are not alone. Many great thinkers, writers, and artists have also struggled with indecisiveness. In this article, we present 20 voices of uncertainty, through their quotes on indecisiveness.
The worst thing about indecision is the delayed gratification.
Unknown
This quote suggests that when we are indecisive, we postpone our happiness, success, or fulfillment. We are stuck in a state of inaction, waiting for something to happen, or for the right moment to arrive.
Indecision may or may not be my problem.
Jimmy Buffett
Jimmy Buffett’s quote is a humorous way of saying that he is not sure whether he is indecisive or not. It shows how indecisiveness can sometimes be a vague and elusive concept that is difficult to define or diagnose.
The inability to make a decision has often been passed off as patience.
Unknown
This quote highlights how indecisiveness can be mistaken for patience, especially in situations where we need to act decisively. We may justify our inaction by telling ourselves that we are being careful, thoughtful, or deliberate, when in fact, we are just procrastinating.
The more alternatives, the more difficult the choice.
Abbe Dimnet
This quote suggests that having too many options can make it harder for us to make a decision. We may feel overwhelmed, confused, or uncertain, and end up not making any choice at all.
Indecision is the thief of opportunity.
Jim Rohn
Jim Rohn’s quote suggests that indecisiveness can prevent us from seizing the opportunities that come our way. We may miss out on a chance to grow, learn, or succeed, simply because we cannot make up our minds.
Indecision is like a stepchild: if he does not wash his hands, he is called dirty, if he does, he is wasting water.
African Proverb
This African proverb highlights how indecisiveness can be perceived as a flaw, regardless of what we do or don’t do. We may be criticized for being indecisive, even if we try to be careful or considerate.
I have a pathological fear of boredom.
Tilda Swinton
Tilda Swinton’s quote suggests that indecisiveness can be driven by a fear of being bored or unfulfilled. We may feel that we need to keep moving, exploring, or trying new things, even if it means being indecisive.
Indecision is the key to flexibility.
Unknown
This quote suggests that indecisiveness can be a way of remaining flexible or adaptable, especially in situations where we need to respond to changing circumstances. We may need to delay our decision until we have more information or a better understanding of the situation.
When in doubt, do nothing.
Marcus Tullius Cicero
Cicero’s quote suggests that when we are unsure about what to do, it may be better to do nothing, rather than make a hasty or ill-informed decision. We may need to take the time to reflect, seek advice, or gather more information before we act.
Indecision is often worse than wrong action.
H.M. Ward
This quote suggests that being indecisive can be more harmful than making a mistake or taking the wrong action. We may lose time, opportunities, or credibility by being indecisive, and end up regretting our inaction.
Indecision is a virus that can run through an army and destroy its will to win or even to survive.
Walter Lord
Walter Lord’s quote suggests that indecisiveness can be contagious and demoralizing, especially in group situations where we need to act cohesively and decisively. We may become paralyzed by indecision, and lose our sense of purpose or direction.
The hardest thing to do is to be true to yourself, especially when everybody is watching.
Dave Chappelle
Dave Chappelle’s quote suggests that being indecisive can be a way of avoiding the pressure or expectations of others, especially when we are not sure about our own values, goals, or identity. We may need to take the time to reflect and clarify our own priorities, before we can make a decision.
The best way to get a good idea is to get a lot of ideas.
Linus Pauling
Linus Pauling’s quote suggests that being indecisive can be a way of generating more ideas or options, especially in creative or innovative contexts. We may need to explore different possibilities, experiment with different approaches, or brainstorm with others, before we can make a decision.
Indecision becomes decision with time.
Unknown
This quote suggests that indecisiveness can be a temporary state, that can resolve itself with time and experience. We may need to give ourselves the space and patience to make a decision, and trust that it will become clearer as we go along.
Indecision is like a game of chess: you can think about your next move forever, but eventually, you have to make it.
Unknown
This quote suggests that being indecisive can be like playing a game of chess, where we need to anticipate the consequences of our moves, but also be willing to take risks and make a decision. We may need to balance our caution with our courage, and trust that we can learn from our mistakes.
Indecision is a choice.
Unknown
This quote suggests that being indecisive can be a way of making a choice, even if it is a passive or unconscious one. We may need to be aware of our own biases, fears, or habits, and question whether our indecision is serving us or hindering us.
Indecision is the enemy of progress.
Unknown
This quote suggests that indecisiveness can be a barrier to growth, change, or improvement. We may need to overcome our indecision by taking action, seeking feedback, or learning from our mistakes.
These 20 quotes on indecisiveness show that being uncertain, hesitant, or undecided is a common human experience, that can have different causes, consequences, and interpretations. Indecisiveness can be a way of avoiding risk, generating ideas, or clarifying our priorities, but it can also be a way of procrastinating, losing opportunities, or damaging our confidence. Ultimately, the choice is ours.
