Risk taking can be an exhilarating experience that may help increase self esteem. Researchers at Duke University recently found that there is a connection between risk taking and personal happiness.

Our own perspective and negative "self-talk" sometimes makes it harder to take a risk. The following test may help make difficult decisions a little easier. Get out a pencil and paper and write your answers to the following questions.

• Options test:

  What are all my options?

• Concession test:

  What and how much am I willing to concede?

• Worst fear test:

  What is my worst fear as I face these options?

• Control test:

  How much control do I actually have over these options?

• Contingency test:

  What is my back-up plan if I fail?

• Time test:

  Will this be important five years from now? Does it have a beginning and an end?

• Interpretation test:

  Is there more than one way to interpret this situation?

• Friend test:

  If a friend had this dilemma, what would my advice be?

Discussions with a friend can also help us when we need to make a difficult decision. When we're really stuck, however, professional counseling may help. Know your limits.

When tough decisions affect your concentration or your sleep, get help. Call the EAP at 508-879-2093 at any time.