We’ve all been there—standing at a crossroads, faced with a decision that doesn’t feel like a clear yes or no. The pressure to decide right now can be overwhelming. Your imposter might even be whispering in your ear, saying things like, “You’ll miss your chance if you wait!” or “What if this is the wrong choice?”
But here’s a thought: what if the answer isn’t yes or no? What if the answer is maybe?
Maybe often gets dismissed as indecisive or weak. But the truth is, maybe can be one of the smartest and most empowering decisions you make. Why? Because maybe gives you something invaluable: space.
Why Maybe Matters
When you’re stuck between yes and no, it’s often because you need more time to reflect. Maybe allows you to pause and:
- Sort through your feelings: Is this something you genuinely want, or are you feeling pressured to say yes?
- Check your alignment: Does this opportunity fit your goals, values, and current priorities?
- Gather more information: Sometimes, the clarity you need comes from simply waiting a day or two to see how you feel.
Instead of forcing yourself into a rushed decision, maybe gives you the chance to make a choice you’re confident in.
The Power of the Pause
Let me share a quick story. A few months ago, I was invited to join a mastermind group. It sounded amazing: brilliant people, endless networking opportunities, and valuable insights. My imposter immediately screamed, “Say yes! If you don’t, you’ll regret it forever!”
But something felt… off. I couldn’t tell if it was fear holding me back or if it genuinely wasn’t the right fit. So instead of forcing an answer, I gave myself permission to sit in the maybe.
Over the next week, I asked myself some important questions:
- Am I saying yes out of excitement or obligation?
- Does this opportunity align with my current goals?
- How will this impact my time, energy, and other commitments?
By the end of the week, it was clear: it wasn’t the right time for this opportunity. Saying no felt like the best decision—but I wouldn’t have known that without giving myself the space to reflect.
Tips for Making Maybe Work for You
If you’re not used to sitting in the maybe, it can feel uncomfortable at first. But with a little practice, it becomes a powerful tool for making thoughtful, intentional decisions. Here’s how to make maybe work for you:
- Set a Timeframe Maybe isn’t about avoiding a decision forever. It’s about giving yourself the time you need. Set a specific timeframe—a day, a week, or however long feels reasonable—to revisit the decision. This helps you avoid getting stuck in analysis paralysis.
- Ask Yourself Key Questions Use this pause to reflect on what really matters. Questions like these can help:
- Does this opportunity align with my goals?
- Am I saying yes because I want to or because I feel like I should?
- What’s the potential upside? What are the potential downsides?
- Check in With Your Gut Sometimes, your gut instinct already knows the answer. If you feel a sense of peace leaning toward one direction, that’s a clue. If you feel heavy or uncertain, maybe is the perfect place to stay for now.
- Talk It Out Sometimes, explaining the decision to someone else can bring surprising clarity. Find a trusted friend, mentor, or colleague and walk them through your thought process. Often, just hearing yourself talk can help you realize what feels right.
- Revisit the Decision with Fresh Eyes When your timeframe is up, come back to the decision with a clear mind. How do you feel now? Has anything changed? Does the choice seem more obvious?
Why Maybe Isn’t Weakness
There’s this idea that maybe means you’re indecisive or scared. But in reality, maybe is a sign of strength. It shows you’re willing to pause, reflect, and trust yourself enough to wait for clarity. It’s not about avoiding decisions—it’s about making better ones.
So the next time your imposter tries to rush you into a yes or no, remind her of the power of maybe. Give yourself the grace to pause. Because every thoughtful maybe leads to a decision you can stand behind with confidence.
Have you ever given yourself permission to sit in the maybe? What decision did it help you make?
