BERNAMA/DPA – In today’s world of endless options, whether choosing a career path or picking out breakfast cereal, making the ‘right’ decision can feel like a daunting task.
Although we all want to make the best possible choices, this kind of analysis is not only time-consuming but can also be overwhelming for the human brain.
“The human mind just doesn’t have enough capacity to do that,” explained professor at Cornell University Valerie Reyna in an interview with The Washington Post.
Experts said people tend to fall into one of two decision-making styles: ‘maximisers’ and ‘satisficers’.
Professor at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business Ayelet Fishbach explained that maximisers work to make the very best choice by carefully evaluating every available option. On the other hand, satisficers choose the first option that meets their standards and move on, seeking something that is simply “good enough”.
While maximisers often feel more in control, their approach has drawbacks. According to professor at UC Berkeley and author of The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less Barry Schwartz, maximisers are more likely to regret their decisions, and tend to be less satisfied with their lives, less optimistic, and more prone to feelings of depression than satisficers.
The experts suggest the following strategies for making decisions more efficiently and with less stress:
AVOID OVERTHINKING DECISIONS
Once you’ve made a choice, commit to it and avoid revisiting the decision. Studies show that when people think a decision is reversible, they’re more likely to reverse it – leading to more anxiety and less satisfaction.
BALANCE MAXIMISING WITH FLEXIBILITY
While maximising can help with big, important choices, it’s okay to settle for “good enough” when it comes to less significant decisions. Prioritising this balance can help avoid decision fatigue.
AUTOMATE SMALL DECISIONS
To reduce time spent on daily choices, try making some decisions automatic. For example, if you know you want a healthy breakfast, stick to a standard option each morning rather than rethinking it every day.
SET LIMITS ON DECISION TIME
If you have maximising tendencies, try putting a time limit on your choices. Clinical psychologist at NYU Langone Health Thea Gallagher recommended giving yourself just 15 minutes to research products or shop online. Establish a go-to source when possible to avoid information overload.
