Let’s face it, making decisions is exhausting. Whether you’re choosing what to eat for lunch or which candidate to vote for in the upcoming election, each decision takes a toll on your mental energy. And when you’re faced with an endless stream of choices, it’s easy to fall into decision fatigue. But there is hope! Here are some tips for overcoming decision fatigue.
What is decision fatigue?
Decision fatigue is the sense of weariness from making too many decisions. When you’re bombarded with choices, your brain gets overwhelmed and exhausted. This can lead to poor decision-making and decreased productivity, motivation, and creativity.
Subscribe to our Newsletter!
Receive selected content straight into your inbox.
How to overcome it
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to overcome decision fatigue and get your brain back on track.
Simplify your life
One way to reduce decision fatigue is to simplify your life. You don’t need to have a million things going on at once. Instead, prioritize what’s important to you and let go of the rest. This will help free up your mental energy for more important decisions.
Simplify your choices
If you’re faced with a long list of options, simplify it! Break the choices down into smaller, more manageable groups. This will make it easier for your brain to process the information and decide. This is especially helpful when you’re shopping. For example, if you’re looking for a new shirt, narrow down your choices to a few different styles instead of deciding between every shirt in the store.
Set limits
One way to prevent decision fatigue is to limit the number of choices you’re exposed to. For example, limit yourself to choosing only three items from a menu or five items from a store shelf. This will help reduce the overwhelm and allow you to focus on making the best possible choice. This will also help you save time and energy to use it for other things.
Delegate
When possible, delegate decisions to someone else. If you’re not sure which shirt to buy, ask a friend or family member for their opinion. This will take some of the pressure off you and help you avoid decision fatigue. Because, let’s face it, sometimes we don’t want to make any more decisions!
Take breaks throughout the day
When you’re feeling overwhelmed by choices, take a break! Step away from your desk or put down your phone and take a walk outside. Taking regular breaks will help rejuvenate your mind and prevent decision fatigue. Moreover, taking breaks has been shown to increase productivity, so you’ll be able to get more done in the long run.
Exercise
Exercise has numerous benefits for your mental and physical health. In addition to improving your mood and energy levels, exercise can also help reduce stress and anxiety. And when you’re feeling calm and relaxed, it’s easier to make decisions. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, try going for a run or taking a yoga class.
Get enough sleep
If you’re constantly struggling with decision fatigue, it may signify that you’re not getting enough sleep. When you’re tired, your brain isn’t able to function at its best, and we’re more likely to make poor decisions. So make sure you’re getting enough rest each night to face the day with a clear head.
Eat healthily
What you eat plays a significant role in your mental and physical wellbeing. When you’re low on energy, it’s harder to make decisions. Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Meditate
Meditation is a great way to reduce stress and promote calmness. We train our brains to focus and be more present when we meditate. This can help us become more aware of our thoughts and emotions, leading to better decision-making.
Make decisions early in the day
Your brain is fresh in the morning, so try to make crucial decisions then. Schedule your most difficult tasks for the beginning of the day when you’re at your best.
Decision fatigue can be a big problem, but there are plenty of ways to overcome it. By taking breaks, getting enough sleep, and simplifying your life, you can reduce decision fatigue and improve your overall well-being.
