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Writer's pictureMarina Shearer

The Three Choices We Have in Life





Leave It, Live with It or Leverage It

Life constantly presents us with challenges, opportunities, and moments of decision. Whether it’s a career hurdle, a relationship issue, or an internal struggle, we’re often faced with three fundamental choices. Understanding these choices can empower us to navigate life’s complexities with clarity and purpose.


1.  Leave It

When something in your life no longer serves your well-being or aligns with your values, leaving it might be the wisest choice. While stepping away can be intimidating, it’s often necessary for long-term happiness.

Example: Consider being in a relationship or job that’s draining and unhealthy. The choice to leave isn’t always easy—it comes with risks and uncertainties. Yet, leaving creates space for new opportunities and a fresh start. Courage, self-awareness, and trust in your own capabilities are essential for this path.

Key Takeaway: Choose to leave when staying compromises your mental, emotional, or physical health and when letting go will open doors to better possibilities.


  1. Live With It

There are times when circumstances are beyond our immediate control, and the best option we have is to accept and adapt. Living with it doesn’t mean passive resignation—it means consciously choosing to find peace and stability within an unchangeable situation.

Example: Imagine working under a boss who is difficult but not abusive. If changing jobs isn't feasible, choosing to live with it means reframing the situation, managing stress, and finding ways to thrive despite the challenge. This path requires resilience, patience, and a focus on what you can control.

Key Takeaway: Choose to live with it when the benefits outweigh the cost of change and when acceptance will lead to personal growth and emotional balance.


3. Leverage It

The third option, leveraging, is about taking what you have and turning it into a strength. This choice involves creativity and a strategic mindset. Instead of merely enduring or escaping a situation, you harness it to fuel growth or achieve a goal.

Example: Let’s say you’re in a role that doesn’t align perfectly with your passions but offers learning opportunities and networking potential. By leveraging this experience, you can gain skills, build relationships, and set yourself up for future success. This choice turns challenges into stepping stones.

Key Takeaway: Choose to leverage when you see the potential for transformation, personal development, or the chance to create positive outcomes.


Life’s challenges and decisions can often be distilled into these three choices. By recognising these options, you gain the power to approach life with a sense of agency and purpose. Whether you choose acceptance, departure, or transformation, what matters most is making a choice that aligns with your true self and goals.


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BSc.psychology

Diploma Professional Coaching

Certified Practitioner and Accreditation Coach Extended DISC ®

Blanchard Aotearoa NZ Affiliate


Marina is a coach, professional development expert, and facilitator who specialises in helping people and teams develop themselves so they can be the best version of themselves and conduct their personal and professional lives more effectively.

Learn more about her HERE 

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