Let’s be honest—some days, just choosing what to have for dinner feels like a major life decision. (Why is "tacos or pasta?" so emotionally loaded?) So when actual big decisions roll around—like changing jobs, downsizing, moving cities, or even deciding whether to paint the kitchen—we can end up in full-on brain gridlock.

If you've ever found yourself thinking, “I just don’t know what to do,” you’re definitely not alone.

Decision-making can be hard. Not because you're indecisive, but because you're thoughtful. And sometimes, caring deeply about the outcome makes it even harder to choose. Add to that the general overwhelm of life—juggling family, work, unexpected curveballs, and the mental load of just keeping everything together—and suddenly, even simple choices can feel like climbing a mental mountain.

So, whether you're choosing between two good options, navigating a major life transition, or just trying to stop overthinking that one persistent what if, here are some light-hearted (but seriously helpful) tips to make decision-making feel a little easier—and maybe even a bit fun.

1. Name What’s Really Going On

The first step in any decision is figuring out why you’re stuck.

Are you afraid of making the wrong choice? Worried about letting someone down? Just overwhelmed by too many options—or everything else life is currently throwing at you?

Naming the emotion behind the indecision gives it less power. Instead of spinning your wheels in confusion, you can say, “Ah, this is fear of change talking,” or “I’m overloaded and can’t think straight right now.” It’s like turning on the lights in a messy room—things may still be scattered, but at least now you can see what you’re working with.

2. Limit Your Options (Seriously, Fewer is Better)

You’ve probably heard of decision fatigue—that thing where your brain gets tired from too many choices. (Hence why Mark Zuckerberg wears the same outfit every day. Apparently.)

If you're trying to choose between everything, you'll end up choosing nothing. Instead, limit your options to two or three solid choices.

Ask yourself:

• “If I had to pick just two paths, what would they be?”

• “Which choices are actually realistic for me right now?”

Once you've narrowed it down, the decision process gets much clearer.

3. Try the 10-10-10 Rule

This little trick comes from author and business exec Suzy Welch, and it's gold. When faced with a decision, ask yourself:

• How will I feel about this in 10 minutes?

• How about in 10 months?

• And in 10 years?

It gives you a short-term, medium-term, and long-term lens. That risky-but-exciting opportunity might feel terrifying now, but in 10 years, you might see it as a turning point. On the other hand, that "safe" option might offer short-term comfort but lead to long-term restlessness.

Sometimes the right choice is the one your future self will thank you for.

4. Flip a Coin (Wait, Hear Me Out)

If you’re down to two solid choices and truly can’t decide, try flipping a coin—not to make the decision, but to reveal your preference.

Pay close attention to your gut reaction as the coin lands.

• If you're secretly hoping it lands heads, you already have your answer.

• If you're disappointed with the result, that tells you something too.

Your subconscious often knows what you want long before your logical brain catches up.

5. Phone a (Neutral) Friend

Sometimes, the best way to hear your own thoughts is to say them out loud to someone else. Not to ask them what you should do, but to help you hear your own reasoning.

Pick someone who:

• Isn't emotionally involved in your outcome

• Will ask thoughtful questions

• Won’t try to fix or sway you

The goal isn't for them to decide for you, but to help you process out loud. Sometimes the clarity comes just from hearing yourself talk through it.

6. Try a “Practice Run”

Can you test-drive one of your options?

• Thinking about moving to a new town? Spend a weekend there pretending you already live there.

• Considering a home renovation? Start with a small room or sample material before committing.

• Debating a career change? Try freelancing, shadowing, or volunteering in that field for a short time.

Trying out an option in a low-risk way can give you valuable insight and reduce fear of the unknown.

7. Listen to Your Body

This might sound a little woo-woo, but stay with me: your body often knows what your brain is still debating.

When you think about one choice, how does your body react?

• Do your shoulders tense up or relax?

• Does your stomach twist or settle?

• Do you feel energized or drained?

Your physical response can give you a clue about which choice aligns more with your true self—even before you can articulate it logically.

8. Make Peace with Imperfect Decisions

Not every decision has a perfect answer. In fact, most don’t.

Sometimes the best choice isn’t the perfect one—it’s the one you commit to and make work. So instead of asking, “Which option is perfect?” ask:

• “Which one do I feel most ready to move forward with?”

• “Which choice can I stand behind, even if it’s hard?”

Confidence grows from taking action—not from waiting for the stars to align.

9. Write a Pro/Con List—with a Twist

You’ve probably tried the classic pro/con list, but here’s the twist: after you write it out, rank each item by importance.

Some cons might look big but feel small when you weigh them. And some pros might seem minor but carry emotional weight.

For example:

• “Closer to work” might be a minor pro.

• “Better mental health” might be a major one.

Suddenly, the “obvious” choice might shift once you prioritize what matters most to you.

10. Give Yourself Permission to Change Your Mind

Sometimes, we put too much pressure on decisions because we believe they must be final.

But here’s a gentle reminder: very few decisions are permanent.

• You can change jobs again.

• You can repaint the walls.

• You can move again (yes, even that).

Giving yourself permission to pivot later can take the weight off the choice in front of you now. And ironically, that often leads to making bolder, better decisions in the present.

A Note for the Overthinkers (You Know Who You Are)

If you find yourself researching every option to death, making 17 spreadsheets, and consulting strangers on the internet for their opinions (hello, Reddit), this one’s for you.

Overthinking is not problem-solving.

Information is good. But too much information just becomes noise. Set a time limit for research, and then act. Even small steps forward can clear the fog.

What Does This Have to Do with Real Estate? (Very Little… And Yet, Everything)

This blog wasn’t about buying or selling a home, but decision-making plays a huge role in those life events.

Whether it's deciding:

• To move or stay

• To rent or buy

• To list your home now or wait a year…

…these are big choices that can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re already mentally stretched thin by life in general. But the tools you use in everyday decision-making—tuning into your values, simplifying options, checking in with your body, gathering just enough information—apply to the big stuff too.

And just so you know: when the time comes to make one of those life moves, there are people (ahem, like your friendly local real estate agent) who can walk through it with you—without pressure or sales talk.

But for now? Go easy on yourself. That decision you’ve been agonizing over? You’ve got this.

Final Thought: Progress Beats Perfection

Making decisions can feel hard because we want to get it right. But “right” is often a moving target. Instead, aim for thoughtful, intentional, and forward-moving.

Even if it's just choosing what to do with your Sunday afternoon, choosing something—anything—is a step in the right direction.

Now… pasta or tacos?

As summer settles in across Niagara and the scent of barbecue and fresh-cut grass fills the air, travel daydreams start to bloom. But what if the best vacation is right in your own backyard?

Staycations—whether you explore your community or embrace a full-on “homebody holiday”—are a refreshing, budget-friendly, and surprisingly meaningful way to enjoy the season. Whether you're a family balancing busy schedules, a professional in need of a break, a retiree seeking adventure close to home, or simply someone who loves their own space, Niagara has everything you need to make the most of summer—without ever packing a suitcase.

Let’s take a look at how to soak up the best of the Niagara Region with fresh eyes, renewed energy, and a sense of play.

What Is a Staycation, Anyway?

A staycation doesn’t have to mean sticking to the couch and catching up on Netflix—though if that’s your version of bliss, go for it! It can be anything from rediscovering a nearby trail to turning your backyard into a relaxing escape. The key is intention: giving yourself permission to slow down and experience home like a destination.

Staycations offer some undeniable perks:

• No stressful travel logistics

• Lower costs (no hotels or flights)

• Flexibility to come and go as you please

• A chance to appreciate your community in a new way

Let’s dive into how you can rediscover Niagara this summer—from outdoor adventures to at-home relaxation.

Rediscover Niagara Like a Tourist

Living in Niagara means we’re surrounded by natural beauty, cultural gems, and some of the most visited destinations in Canada. So why not explore your own backyard like you’ve never seen it before?

1. Sunset Views at Queenston Heights or Ball’s Falls
Bring a blanket and some snacks and watch the sun go down from one of Niagara’s stunning viewpoints. Queenston Heights offers panoramic river views, while Ball’s Falls combines nature and history in one peaceful stop.

2. Your Own Backyard Wine Tour
We’re in wine country—so lean into it! Choose a few local wineries (even ones you’ve never tried), and plan your own route. Many offer live music, local food pairings, and cozy patios. No need to rush—just sip, relax, and soak it in.

3. Nature Trails for Every Mood
From the flat, easy trails along the Welland Canal to the scenic routes in Short Hills Provincial Park, there's something for everyone. Even the Niagara Glen offers a surprisingly rugged escape just minutes from the Falls.

4. Farmers Markets & Local Festivals
Explore weekend markets in places like St. Catharines, Niagara-on-the-Lake, or Pelham. Check out summer events like Ridgeway Summer Festival, Canal Days in Port Colborne, or the Peach Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake. It’s the perfect way to enjoy food, music, and local flair.

5. Be a Tourist in Niagara Falls
Yes, the Falls are iconic—but have you done the zipline? Walked the White Water Walk? Cruised on the Niagara City Cruises boat tour? Niagara Falls is more than a photo op—it’s a full-on experience, especially when you embrace it like a first-time visitor.

The Ultimate At-Home Staycation in Niagara

Sometimes the best retreat is the one where you don’t even leave your property. With a little creativity, your home can become your sanctuary.

1. Transform Your Outdoor Space

• Hang string lights and bring out the cozy cushions

• Add a small water feature or fire pit for instant ambiance

• Use planters with herbs or blooms to bring colour and scent into your space

Even a small patio or porch can feel like a getaway with the right touch.

2. Have an At-Home Spa Day
Unplug, slow down, and treat yourself:

• Start with infused water and a relaxing breakfast

• Take a long bath or shower with essential oils

• Light candles, use a face mask, and turn on calming music

Make a point of putting your phone away to truly disconnect.

3. Around-the-World Theme Nights
Travel through taste:

• Choose a country, cook a themed meal, and enjoy music or movies from that culture

• Try Greek night on the grill, Italian pizza-making, or Japanese sushi and sake

• Dress the part, get creative—it’s more fun than you’d expect!

4. Unplug and Reconnect
Put the screens down and savor simpler pleasures:

• Read on the porch

• Garden or work on a puzzle

• Have a picnic in your own yard or a nearby park
  These unplugged moments are often the most restorative.

5. Take on a Summer Project
Whether it’s planting a new garden bed, building a birdhouse, or finally tackling that DIY bench, creating something with your hands adds joy to summer—and gives you something to show for it.

Shift Your Mindset: Vacation Is a State of Mind

The success of a staycation doesn’t depend on distance—it depends on how you approach it. If you carve out time, unplug from everyday duties, and embrace the moment, it can be just as refreshing as a getaway.

In fact, staying close to home lets you rediscover things you may have overlooked—like a quiet trail, a tucked-away café, or how peaceful your backyard feels in the early morning light.

Final Thoughts: Fall Back in Love with Niagara

There’s something special about seeing your home with fresh eyes. A Niagara-based staycation offers the chance to slow down, explore local treasures, and create meaningful summer memories—without the packing stress or hefty price tag.

And if a move is on the horizon, staycations can help you clarify what you truly love about your current space and community. But even if you’re staying put, there’s joy in finding wonder right where you are.

Here’s to a summer of sunsets, slow mornings, backyard wine tastings, and everyday adventures.
Happy summer—and happy staycationing, Niagara!

Let’s face it—we’ve all done it.

Stared at the ceiling thinking “I should’ve spoken up in that meeting…”, “We could have gone on that trip in 2019…”, or “Why didn’t I buy stock in literally anything online in 2008?”

If you’ve ever been haunted by a “could have” or “should have” (or 200 of them), you’re not alone. That’s exactly why National Toss the “Could Haves” and “Should Haves” Day exists—landing every year on the third Saturday of July (this year, July 19th).

It’s a day to let go. Lighten the mental load. Free ourselves from the baggage of decisions past, missed opportunities, and the "what ifs" that serve no one—except maybe that voice in your head that sounds suspiciously like your second cousin Susan  (not to insult anyone who’s name is Susan).

Let’s dig into what this day really means, why it might matter more than you think, and how you can celebrate it in ways that are fun, useful, and possibly even a little bit freeing.

What Is National Toss the "Could Haves" and "Should Haves" Day?

Created by motivational speaker Martha J. Ross-Rodgers, this day is about releasing regret. It’s not a gimmick—it’s a gentle nudge to help us move forward instead of staying stuck in a loop of hindsight.

Imagine Marie Kondo-ing your emotional closet. Every “I should’ve taken that job,” or “I could’ve spoken up sooner” gets kindly thanked for its lesson and tossed out to make room for clearer, calmer thinking.

This isn't about ignoring the past. It’s about learning from it without living in it.

Why It Matters More Than You Think

Regret is sneaky. It doesn’t always come in the form of dramatic failures—it often lurks in everyday choices: not starting a hobby, missing a chance to reconnect with someone, or skipping that Sunday nap (the true tragedy).

While some reflection is healthy, when we marinate too long in the "coulda-shoulda" stew, it holds us back:

• Creativity shrinks because we're afraid to try again.

• Decision-making stalls because we're overanalyzing every outcome.

• Joy fades because we're too busy rehashing the past to enjoy the present.

Sound a little familiar? Then this day might be for you.

Common “Could Haves” and “Should Haves” (And Why You Can Toss Them)

Let’s call a few of these out in the open, shall we? Air them out. Then promptly toss them out.

🏠 “I should have bought that house in 2015.”

You and half the country. Real estate hindsight is basically a national sport. But here's the truth: You made the best decision you could with the information you had at the time. And besides, housing markets rise, fall, and rise again. There will always be opportunities—just not always in the same package.

💼 “I could have started my own business.”

Maybe. Or maybe the timing wasn’t right. Or the idea needed more time to simmer. The great thing about this dream is—it’s still alive. Maybe today is your first step forward.

❤️ “I should have said yes to that date/job/change.”

What ifs can be painful. But sometimes a “no” teaches you just as much as a “yes.” Trust that you said no for a reason—and that reason may still be valid.

🧁 “I could have said no to that third cupcake.”

No regrets. Cupcakes are cupcakes.

How to Celebrate: Your Toss-the-Should-Haves Game Plan

📝 1. Make a (Short) Regret List—Then Rip It Up

Grab a notebook or even the back of a grocery receipt. Write down a few things you’ve been hanging on to. Not the epic life-altering regrets—just the ones that randomly pop up while brushing your teeth.

Then? Crumple it. Burn it (safely). Shred it. Or ceremoniously toss it in the compost with the week-old spinach. Goodbye, mental clutter.

🧠 2. Flip the Script

Instead of thinking:

• “I should have moved last year,” try: “What would make moving right now feel good?”

• “I could have saved more,” try: “What’s one small thing I can start doing today?”

This isn’t toxic positivity—it’s giving yourself permission to move from stuck to strategic.

🌱 3. Try Something You’ve Been Avoiding

What’s one little “should” you’ve been carrying?

• “I should learn to cook something that doesn’t involve a microwave.”

• “I should actually go on that hike I keep talking about.”

• “I should finally sort the junk drawer (or at least close it all the way).”

Pick one. Do it just a little bit. Celebrate the progress, not perfection.

💬 4. Reach Out, Don’t Ruminate

If one of your regrets involves another person—like not calling a friend back in 2021 (or 2011)—it’s not too late. Send a message. Make a call. No need for a dramatic reunion. A simple “Hey, you crossed my mind” works wonders.

🧘 5. Create a “Done Right” List

We spend so much time on what we didn’t do, we forget to notice what we did do.

• Got out of bed when it was raining? Win.

• Remembered your friend’s birthday without a Facebook reminder? Superhero.

• Took a deep breath instead of sending that snarky email? Nobel Peace Prize, practically.

Write down 5 things you’re proud of, big or small. It’ll surprise you.

Real Talk: Regret Happens to Everyone

From 20-somethings wondering if they picked the right major, to retirees wondering if they should’ve traveled more, regret is universal. No one gets through life without a few “oops” and “if onlys.”

But we don’t have to build a house and live in them.

We grow. We learn. And we get better at understanding what matters to us now—which is all we really have control over.

And If You Must Keep One “Should Have”…

Let it be something like:

• “I should have taken more time to enjoy where I am.”

• “I should have appreciated how far I’ve come.”

• “I should have realized that perfect doesn’t exist, but contentment might.”

Those are the kind of shoulds we can live with.

A Quick Note from Your Local Real Estate Enthusiast (We Promise This Isn’t a Pitch)

Sometimes our biggest “could haves” and “should haves” involve where we live. Homes come with big emotions and big decisions. If you’re ever wondering about what ifs—like “should I downsize?” or “could I find a better fit?”—just know it’s okay to ask questions without committing to anything. That’s how good decisions start: with curiosity, not pressure.

But today isn’t about that.

Today is about letting go, lightening up, and maybe—maybe—laughing a little at the fact that we once thought buying a bread maker in 2020 would make us a whole new person.

Final Thoughts: Your New Motto

Toss it and move on.
That’s it. That’s the blog.

Okay, not really—but it could have been. 😉

Whether you're tossing emotional clutter, a to-do list that’s haunting your fridge, or just giving yourself the freedom to breathe a little deeper, July 19th is a great day to practice the art of letting go.

Here’s to fewer regrets, more joy, and just the right number of cupcakes.

Happy National Toss the "Could Haves" and "Should Haves" Day!

If this made you smile—or if you have a hilarious regret you'd like to share (an orange shag carpet in 1983, perhaps?)—hit reply or drop a comment. We'd love to hear it.