The idea for The Decision Café was born out of a decision maker’s drive to help other deciders.
Once Katie Wilson felt confident in her decision to remain childfree by choice, she never wanted anyone to have exactly that same experience. The uncertainty, the ambivalence, the confusion, the frustration — these are all parts of the decision making process for many, and they’re valuable challenges that lead to growth. So often though, the process is also marked by loneliness, isolation, lack of support, and a sense of “what’s wrong with me? Am I normal?” Katie wondered if she could make things easier for other decision-makers.
Developed in partnership with expert and licensed psychotherapist and coach, Merle Bombardieri, the goal of The Decision Café is to create a supportive, respectful, and accessible community where all decision makers can listen and be heard. It opened its virtual doors on Facebook during the pandemic, and just half a year later already boasted over 165 members.
Among these numbers are women and men, both single and in a variety of relationships, and from all over the world. There are decision makers who made their decision and who now want to support others, as well as decision makers who decided to have a first child, and now need help in their decision whether to have another.
Everyone’s story in The Decision Café is unique, but everyone is united by the respect and willingness to listen to everyone’s story. Members share stories of their own childhoods and experiences with children and parenting. Members have shared doubts, fears, hopes and humor. We’ve had discussions about climate change and sterilization, pressure from pronatalist media and the fear of losing one’s identity once a parent. If it’s respectful, nothing is taboo.
Live virtual discussion sessions are scheduled regularly and are open to members free of charge. It’s also a great place to learn about workshops that Merle Bombardieri will be hosting in the future (workshops are limited in size and available for a fee).
If you’re a decision maker and/or you’d like to support decision makers, please find the Decision Café on Facebook and answer a few quick membership questions — don’t forget to agree to a few ground rules…that’s how we keep the group safe, secure and private for all.
We look forward to meeting you! Visit The Decision Café here.
