By Renee Goyeneche—
Decisions, from the simple to the complex, are part of our everyday life. While factors like our lifestyle, age or profession may influence the number of choices that come at us, studies estimate that the average adult makes around 35,000 decisions daily. That number has likely increased over the last few decades, given how the rise of technology has significantly changed the way we interact with the world. We’re bombarded as never before with notifications, messages, and alerts, and our inherent reachability requires us to engage with issues in real time. When faced with too many options, our brains overload and struggle to process all available information, leading first to decision fatigue and then to decision paralysis.
Decision fatigue refers to the idea that our ability to make good decisions becomes depleted over time. It can result from having to make too many decisions in a short period, not having enough information to make a decision, or simply being mentally exhausted. As we make more decisions, especially complex ones, our ability to make good decisions may decline, or we may begin avoiding making decisions altogether.
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If left unchecked, fatigue may progress into decision paralysis, where we cannot make a choice, even when all necessary information is available. The problem may be exacerbated by the fear of making a wrong decision, leading to procrastination, missed opportunities, and higher stress and anxiety levels. In both our personal and professional lives, it’s essential to be aware of the potential for decision fatigue and decision paralysis in high-stress environments, as they can have long-term effects on our physical and mental health.
There are several indicators that you may be experiencing decision fatigue or paralysis. Here are some common signs:
- Feeling overwhelmed: If you’re constantly overwhelmed by the number of decisions you must make or find yourself procrastinating, decision fatigue may be to blame. Conversely, some people may start making hasty, impulsive decisions when experiencing decision fatigue, leading to poor choices.
- Irritability or mood swings: When we’re experiencing decision fatigue, our brains can become overloaded, leading to emotional instability. It can also manifest in physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, and disrupted sleep patterns, perpetuating adverse effects on our overall health and well-being.
- Difficulty concentrating: A lack of focus leads to reduced productivity and can be particularly concerning when focus and attention to detail are critical, such as in the workplace or when driving. It can also contribute to feelings of stress and overwhelm, creating a vicious cycle that can worsen fatigue or paralysis and make tackling complex tasks or decisions more challenging.
- Physical fatigue: Decision-making can be mentally exhausting, so you may also feel tired or drained. This can initiate a cycle of reduced exercise and magnify feelings of tiredness and lethargy. It can also lead to burnout, significantly impacting physical health and increasing the risks of heart disease, obesity, and other health conditions.
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If you notice any of these signs, take a step back to evaluate your process and consider solutions such as prioritizing certain choices, delegating decisions, or taking breaks to recharge.
Here are some additional suggestions that may help you move beyond the roadblock:
- Start by identifying the root cause of your indecision and any underlying fears or concerns contributing to your fatigue or paralysis. It can be helpful to break down a decision into smaller, more manageable steps, gather as much information as possible about your options, and weigh the pros and cons.
- Consider setting a deadline for making a decision, and hold yourself accountable. Remember, selecting a specific and realistic deadline is essential. Doing so facilitates progress by creating urgency, which may prove effective in decision-making in both personal and professional contexts.
- If you are struggling with professional decisions, it may also be helpful to consult trusted colleagues, mentors, or advisors who can provide a fresh perspective and help you identify blind spots in your thinking.
- Finally, it’s essential to understand that no decision is ever completely risk-free and that sometimes, the best course of action is to make a choice with the knowledge that you may need to adapt and adjust course as circumstances dictate.
Understanding that decision-making is a dynamic process, not a one-time event, allows us to approach decision-making with a growth mindset. Continuously evaluating and adjusting decisions based on feedback and new information lets us develop decision-making skills and make more informed choices over time.
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Renee Goyeneche: I am a writer and research editor focusing on information that benefits women, children, and families. Find me on Twitter.
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