The Next Right Thing

Making a decision is hard enough. But add the unpredictability of emotion to the mix and making a confident decision can feel nearly impossible. What do we do when we have a decision to make but we have such strong emotions surrounding that decision that we feel paralyzed to move one way or another? It's a great question and I can't say I have a clean, linear answer. But I do have thoughts and I hope you'll listen in. Links + Resources From This Episode: The Listening Life by Adam McHugh Grab a copy of my book, The Next Right Thing Find me on Instagram @emilypfreeman Download Transcript

In nearly every major and sometimes not-so-major decision, I've prayed for clarity. I've shared here before how in times of cloudy decision-making frustration, I've even Googled how to make a decision. More and more, though, every time the word "clarity" comes out of my mouth, I hesitate. I'm realizing for me, clarity can be a more acceptable word for control. If I could just see the future, I could make a good decision about this part of my life. Today's practice is to take a 10 minute timeout and consider a few simple questions in the presence of God. Listen in. Links + Resources From This Episode: Episode 27: Stop Rushing Clarity John 14 Group Spiritual Direction by Rose Mary Dougherty Recapturing the Wonder by Mike Cosper Grab a copy of my book, The Next Right Thing Find me on Instagram @emilypfreeman Download Transcript

When the problems of life feel big and the way through seems impossible, the last thing we want to do is to consider what we most want or to look desire in the face. But what if clues to our next right thing are embedded in the last place we feel free to look? Instead of talking yourself out of your crazy ideas, maybe it's time to listen to them. I'm not here to say listening to your crazy idea will lead to big things. But what I truly believe is that at least listening to your crazy idea is often the thing that will lead you home - to your greatest contribution and the place where God wants to meet you. Listen in. Links + Resources From This Episode: Holy Listening by Margaret Guenther We've opened the doors to hope*writers for the last time this year. If your crazy idea has been to become a published writer, join us before the enrollment period ends on Friday, October 4th Grab a copy of my book, The Next Right Thing Find me on Instagram @emilypfreeman Download Transcript

For a few minutes each Tuesday, our directive is to do the next right thing, not to think about doing the next right thing. Of course thinking is a part of doing. But they at least have to work together to bring about meaningful change. We practice what we want to improve and certain things lend themselves well to our idea of practice - playing piano or a team sport, learning to paint, draw, dance or sing. In elementary school we practiced math problems, cursive letters, how to share our toys. As adults, we may still practice some of those things, but we also practice in more nuanced ways, things that have to do with our faith, our identity, and our relationships. Listen in. Links + Resources From This Episode: Troublemaker, a memoir by Leah Remini Andrew Peterson and The Rabbit Room The Rabbit Room's conference Hutchmoot The High Five, a 3 minute documentary about Andy Gullahorn and Gabe Scott's practice of meeting each other for a simple high five Shirt of Flame by Heather King Grab a copy of my book, The Next Right Thing Find me on Instagram @emilypfreeman Download Transcript

Explore the power of asking the second question in decision-making and conversations. Learn how seeking God in stillness and chaos can lead to transformative experiences. Embrace the practice of being good listeners and fostering supportive relationships. Discover the value of deep questions in fostering understanding and connection.

Exploring the power of borrowing prayers in times of uncertainty like 9-11. The importance of personal authenticity in prayer and balance between personal and traditional prayers. Reflecting on the impact of borrowed prayers on life decisions and the interconnectedness of daily choices.

Sometimes it's the simplest things that help to ease our decision-fatigue the most. Links + Resources From This Episode: Atomic Habits by James Clear When a Simple Gesture Prevents 85% of Workplace Errors Episode 22: Embrace Your Limits Episode 90: Start With This Simple Rhythm Grab a copy of my book, The Next Right Thing Find me on Instagram @emilypfreeman Download a transcript of this episode

If you're in the ellipsis in your own life right now, you might have more questions than answers, more furrowed brows than nodding heads. But there are some things you can still choose - like making a place where roots are lacking, like believing for sure that God is with you, like doing your next right thing in love. Links + Resources From This Episode: The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson A Million Little Ways Episode 24: Look for Arrows (Not Answers) Placemaker by Christie Purifoy All things Christie Purifoy Grab a copy of The Next Right Thing Find me on Instagram @emilypfreeman Download Transcript

Explore the importance of creating space for your soul to breathe and establishing rhythms to connect with God. Learn about deliberate Bible reading, daily routines for spiritual growth, and creating a rhythm for the soul. Also, discover a special offer for 'The Next Right Thing' book and insightful quotes on hope and creativity.

In our last episode I shared about my plan to take a six week sabbatical, but going away to plan, pray, and create is only helpful if you return. Today I'll share about the equally important task of coming back. Links + Resources From This Episode: Episode 88: Come Away For Awhile Quiet: The Power of Introverts by Susan Cain Astronaut Scott Kelly walking on Earth after a year in space on the Verge Rob Maddock on Atmospheric Reentry on PhysOrg How Astronauts Return to Earth by Beth Wilson Whistling in the Dark by Frederick Buechner Grab a copy of The Next Right Thing book Find me on Instagram @emilypfreeman Download a transcript of this episode