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Why We Delay Hard Decisions (and How to Move Forward)

Practicing Hope Podcast

Release Date: 04/02/2026

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Have you ever had a decision that just… lingers? A conversation you know you need to have. A leadership call that keeps getting pushed to the next meeting. You tell yourself you’re “still discerning” — but you’re not actually moving forward. In this episode, Tanner Smith, Chase Rashad Stancle, and Sarah Johnson explore the tension between faithful discernment and avoidance — why decisions get stuck, how fear and uncertainty keep us spinning, and what it looks like to grow into leaders who can listen deeply and act when it’s time. Drawing on stories from church leadership,...

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More Episodes

Have you ever had a decision that just… lingers?

A conversation you know you need to have. A leadership call that keeps getting pushed to the next meeting. You tell yourself you’re “still discerning” — but you’re not actually moving forward.

In this episode, Tanner Smith, Chase Rashad Stancle, and Sarah Johnson explore the tension between faithful discernment and avoidance — why decisions get stuck, how fear and uncertainty keep us spinning, and what it looks like to grow into leaders who can listen deeply and act when it’s time. Drawing on stories from church leadership, parenting, and everyday life, they offer practical ways to recognize real progress, name what’s underneath our hesitation, and move forward with courage and clarity.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  • How to recognize the difference between real discernment and subtle avoidance

  • Why fear of consequences — not the decision itself — often keeps us stuck

  • Practical ways to move forward, including small decisions, play, and honest conversations

Show Notes:

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