top of page
taking the escatator logo

Voices (and Choices) - A Relatable Way to Help Make Better Decisions

  • Writer: Kenneth Pecoraro
    Kenneth Pecoraro
  • 9 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Most people don’t struggle with making decisions because they don’t know what to do.

They struggle because they’re hearing multiple “voices” at the same time, each pulling them in a different direction.



One voice pushes for immediate relief. Another warns about consequences. Another brings up fear, doubt, or past experiences.


This new worksheet, Voices and Choices, helps break that process down in a way that is simple, relatable, and highly discussion-friendly.


Why This Works in Group

Instead of jumping straight into insight or behavior change, this approach focuses on something more foundational, recognizing what is happening internally in the moment.


The worksheet organizes common internal “voices” into categories such as:

  • Emotion-driven reactions, including anger, anxiety, and hurt

  • Temptation and short-term thinking

  • Protective but limiting thoughts, like avoidance and doubt

  • Long-term, values-based thinking

This gives clients language for something they already experience but may not fully understand.


Built for Engagement and Insight

It works because it does not feel overly clinical or heavy.

Instead, the reaction is often, “Yeah, that’s exactly what goes on in my head.” From there, discussion tends to open up more naturally and groups are engaged in the conversation


Where the Real Skill Comes In

The second half of the worksheet shifts from awareness to action:

  • “Mute Button”, learning how to step back from unhelpful thoughts

  • “Pass the Mic”, intentionally focusing on more helpful, values-based thinking

  • Pause, think, and choose, slowing the moment down to make a better decision


This creates a practical bridge between thoughts, emotions, and behavior...


Easy to Customize

The scenario section is intentionally flexible.

You can use the provided prompts, adapt them to your population, or allow the group to create their own. This keeps the discussion relevant, real, and often surprisingly honest.

    Want to read more?

    Subscribe to takingtheescalator.com to keep reading this exclusive post.

     
     

    Recent Posts

    See All
    Premium Feature Spotlight: Facilitator Guides

    Premium Members: Don’t overlook one of the most valuable tools available to you on the Premium Resource Hub. Along with your worksheets, you also have access to Facilitator Guides designed to help you

     
     
    Famous Experiments – Practical Lessons

    What Research Teaches Us About Behavior Change ▶️ Watch the short video intro here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/o-r6PhWNb4U What do dogs, marshmallows, monkeys, and classroom studies have to do wi

     
     
    bottom of page