It’s much easier to get into something than it is to get out of it.

This principle applies to so many aspects of life, and understanding it can help you make wiser, more thoughtful decisions. Let me give you a few examples to illustrate what I mean.

Think about buying a house. It’s relatively easy to fall in love with a property, sign the papers, and move in. But when it comes time to sell, you might find yourself dealing with a sluggish market, picky buyers, or unexpected repairs. What seemed like a dream home can quickly become a financial burden that’s hard to shake off.

Or consider relationships. It’s often easy to start dating someone new, caught up in the excitement and potential of a fresh connection. But ending a relationship, even one that’s clearly not working, can be emotionally draining and complicated, especially if you’ve built a life together.

In the business world, hiring an employee is usually much simpler than firing one. Bringing someone on board can be done with a handshake and some paperwork. But letting someone go involves legal considerations, potential severance packages, and the emotional toll of impacting someone’s livelihood.

And let’s not shy away from more delicate matters. It’s far easier to hop into bed with someone in a moment of passion than it is to deal with the potential consequences – whether that’s navigating awkward morning-after scenarios, managing hurt feelings, or facing more serious repercussions like unplanned pregnancies or damaged reputations.

The point here isn’t to scare you away from making commitments or taking risks. Life is meant to be lived, after all. But I want you to approach these decisions with your eyes wide open, fully aware that the exit strategy might not be as simple as the entry. So, what’s the lesson here? It’s about developing the intelligence and discipline to thoughtfully consider whether you want to get into whatever it is you’re contemplating. Before you make a commitment, ask yourself:

1. What are the potential long-term consequences of this decision?
2. Am I prepared to deal with those consequences if things don’t work out?
3. What would an exit strategy look like, and am I comfortable with that?
4. Is this decision aligned with my values and long-term goals?
5. Am I making this choice for the right reasons, or am I being swayed by temporary emotions or pressures?

This kind of thoughtful consideration can save you from a world of trouble. It’s about being proactive rather than reactive, making decisions with your head as well as your heart.

Remember, patience and careful deliberation are virtues. Don’t let the fear of missing out rush you into commitments you’re not ready for. It’s okay to take your time, to sleep on big decisions, to seek advice from those you trust. At the same time, don’t let this principle paralyze you with indecision. Life is full of uncertainties, and sometimes you need to take calculated risks. The key word here is “calculated.” Make your choices with awareness, understanding the potential challenges of extracting yourself if things don’t go as planned.

In the Bible, Proverbs 4:26 advises, “Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.” This wisdom aligns perfectly with our principle. It’s about being intentional and thoughtful in your choices, considering not just the immediate gratification but the long-term implications.

So, as you navigate life’s many decisions – big and small – remember this principle. It’s easier to get into something than to get out of it. Let this knowledge guide you towards more thoughtful, intentional choices. May it help you avoid unnecessary complications and lead you to commitments that truly align with your values and aspirations.