Mindful Decision Making

Overview

You scroll Yelp for 45 minutes to pick a dinner spot. By the time you choose, you are exhausted. This is Analysis Paralysis.

Definition

Mindful Decision Making is distinguishing between 'Maximizing' (seeking the best) and 'Satisficing' (seeking 'good enough').

The Science

Decision Fatigue

Excessive choice depletes glucose in the prefrontal cortex. Less is often more.

The Practice

The Good Enough Threshold

1. Set criteria first.
2. First Match Rule: Buy the first option that meets criteria.
3. 2-Minute Rule for small decisions.

Common Pitfalls

• FOMO: Fear that a better deal exists.
• Hindsight bias.

Key Takeaway

A good decision made now is better than a perfect decision made never.