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At some point, each and every one of us is going to deal with this. We face this daily, and it doesn’t discriminate. It affects all ages, races, genders, you name it. It does come with a catch though, whatever decision you make, comes with a consequence. This is what we call choice and consequence.
This has been something that has been around since the beginning of time. Everyone will deal with this at some point, and it’s going to happen, like it or not. Take for example if you wanted to make a big purchase. Let’s say for example a Playstation 5.
By purchasing this, it will give you hours of entertainment, whether it be through video games, movies, TV shows, or music. Now that seems like that would be no issue right? Well, it depends.
By purchasing it, that choice comes with consequences as well. You have to accept the fact that it’s going to take a huge chunk of change. Not only that but there is also the possibility that it could distract you from getting things done. Some examples include homework, projects, and the list goes on and on.
The thing about choice and consequence is that even if we make the right decision, things can still go wrong. It’s going to happen at some point. Events can happen that are beyond our control, for example, taking care of a loved one, and doing everything in your power to make sure they stay healthy. One day they end up passing away unexpectedly.
Even though you did your best to make sure that they stayed healthy, unexpected events or accidents can happen. It’s not your fault. It's a part of life.
There are a few quotes that I would like to mention here since this does tie in with the article.
Life presents many choices, the choices we make determine our future. - Catherine Pulsifer
Every choice that we make can determine what our future looks like. What you do with your choices is up to you. Whether it be good or bad, it will affect you, in one way or another.
I believe that we are solely responsible for our own choices, and we have to accept the consequences of every deed, word, and thought throughout our lifetime. - Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
No matter what choices we make, there are always going to be consequences to those choices. That is the reality of things. For example, if you choose to go to college and get a degree, you will have to sacrifice your time. There is no other way around this.
That is the tricky thing with choice and consequences. Sometimes the consequences may not look bad until it shows up, and it becomes something that we weren’t prepared to deal with. Even though we took the time to think about what the consequence would be, it could be something completely different than we thought.
So, why do people tend to make decisions and not take the time to think about the consequences? There are a few ideas here on why.
I’m young so nothing will happen to me
One thing you need to realize. It does not matter how old or young you are. Consequences do not discriminate. Always make sure that you take time to make sure that the choice you make is going to be worth the consequence in the future.
The problem will fix itself over time
This is not always the case. While there are certain situations in which this may happen, It’s not guaranteed to happen 100% of the time. Sometimes, the problem can’t be fixed, no matter how much time has passed. Do yourself a favor. If you can fix whatever the consequence is, do your best to fix it ASAP.
So back when I was going to high school from 2005-2009, my grades weren't the best. They were enough to help me pass, but that was it. I want to say during that time, we were required to do the California High School Exit Exam. (CAHSEE) There were two things that we had to pass, and they were both English and Math.
I managed to pass the English part with no problem. Math on the other hand was a different story. Failed that one and I ended up having to take summer school so I could pass it again the next time. At that time, I did not want to end up doing summer school since I felt like it was going to waste my summer having to go to school during the summer.
However, the consequence of not passing the CAHSEE is that I would not be able to graduate if I failed again. So I had no choice but to do it. The worst thing that you could do at that time was not graduate while everyone else you knew was. I barely managed to pass the math part of it. It was enough that I passed it and could graduate with my class.
So, what is the solution then when it comes to choices and consequences? There are a few solutions.
Take time to think about your choice.
When it comes to making a decision, make sure you take the time to think about the consequence, and if it's going to be worth it in the long run. The choices you make will affect you, one way or another. There is no other way around this.
Ask yourself if this a consequence that you are willing to deal with in the future
Also, take time and ask yourself if you are willing to accept the consequence that will happen later in the future, then by all means go for it. Don’t make a hasty decision and end up regretting it later.
It’s up to you on what you decide. Just be ready for whatever consequence that may be down the road.