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To further complicate the process, one decision will typically have a domino effect on previous intertwined choices.

Our decisions have categories! According to the experts, there are programmed, organizational, routine, tactical, strategic, group, intuitive, minor, opportunity, analytical, financial and individual decisions.

This array of categorical decisions, made by the tens of thousands, is woven tightly into the fabric of our relationships, education, career and faith.

We are the product of the decisions we make. Indeed, the decisions we make today are going to have a long-term impact on our lives. Furthermore, it is impossible not to decide, for procrastination is nonetheless a decision. In all probability each reader of this column has a time sensitive, major decision at hand. Life can be complicated.

As we continue on our journey through life we are going to be confronted with regret. It is inevitable. Nobody makes perfect decisions one hundred percent of the time.

As a result, the "what ifs" will begin to run on a relentless loop through our mind. We intellectually concede that it is impossible to know the answer to the “what if� questions. However, the fantasy plays out in the recesses of our mind of what “might have been,� if we had only made a different decision. Many people often tell themselves that it would have been better if they had only made the other choice.

What if I had gone to a different school? What if I hadn’t broken up with that girl? What if I had married this old girlfriend? What if I had taken the other job offer? What if we had stayed together? What if I had stayed in my hometown rather than moved? What if I had only delayed my trip fifteen minutes, could I have avoided the accident? What if, what if, what if…

The voice in our head continues to beat the drum of second thoughts and regret. To heighten the aggravation is the realization that nothing can be done to turn back the hands of time and undo a decision made. That opportunity is gone forever. Our mind often tries to convince us that life would have been happier, more successful or fulfilling if only we had made the other choice. But yesterday and its decisions elapsed forever.

The lesson learned is that decisions must be entered into carefully, deliberately and wisely. While nobody knows the future nor can they ascertain absolute conclusions, there can be comprehensive confidence that decisions are smart and confidently selected. Life cannot be lived gazing into the rearview mirror. The “what ifs� only serves to torment our lives in the present and confound us when making decisions for the future.

The wise king Solomon instructs his son in the book of Proverbs in the Bible. Numerous principles are shared that will enable him to live a blessed and godly life with the certainty of wise decision making.

First, let us do the things God blesses. Obey the commandments and precepts and deny yourself the foolish temptations that lead to heartbreak and misery. Second, get wise counsel. Going to one who has a testimony of faith in God and has been bountifully blessed in his obedience. Third, seek God in prayer and Bible study. God will lead you into the paths of righteousness for His namesake.

How many decisions have you made today? Let us make wise decisions that establish a successful path for our journey. Let us make decisions without regret or the temptation to ask ourselves that repetitive question, “what if?�

Jon Shonebarger is a pastor, chaplain and counselor in Middle Tennessee. His email is jtshonebarger@gmail.com.