Dealing With Decision Fatigue: 7 Ways to Cope

We make countless decisions every day. From what to wear and what to eat, to how to tackle tasks at work or school, our brains are constantly working. This constant need to make choices can lead to decision fatigue, a state where our ability to make decisions becomes impaired. When experiencing decision fatigue, we might feel overwhelmed, stressed, and prone to make poor choices. The good news is that there are effective ways to cope with decision fatigue. Here are seven strategies to help you manage this common issue.

1. Simplify Choices

One of the easiest ways to deal with decision fatigue is to simplify your choices. When faced with too many options, try to limit them. For example, if you become overwhelmed deciding what to wear every morning, try creating a capsule wardrobe. This is a small collection of clothes that can be mixed and matched easily. By reducing your options, you’ll save time and mental energy.

2. Prioritize Your Decisions

Not all decisions are equal. Some are more important and require more thought, while others are minor and can be made quickly. To manage decision fatigue, prioritize your decisions. Focus on the most important tasks and decisions first thing in the morning when your mind is fresh. This approach ensures that your critical decisions receive the attention they deserve, while less important ones can be addressed later.

3. Take Care of Yourself

Taking care of your physical and mental health can help you cope with decision fatigue. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat foods that fuel your body, and get into an exercise routine. These healthy habits can improve your overall well-being and make it easier to handle daily decisions. Additionally, taking short breaks throughout the day can help refresh your mind.

4. You Need a Break

Taking regular breaks is crucial for maintaining mental clarity and reducing fatigue. When you feel overwhelmed by decisions, step away for a few minutes. Take a short walk, practice deep breathing, or do a quick mindfulness exercise. These breaks give your brain a chance to recharge, making it easier to make decisions when you return to the task.

5. Set Decision-Making Time Limits

Setting time limits for making decisions can help prevent overthinking and reduce decision fatigue. For example, give yourself ten minutes to decide what to have for dinner. By setting a time limit, you encourage yourself to make decisions more quickly and efficiently. This method can help you avoid getting stuck in a cycle of indecision.

6. Delegate Decisions

You don’t have to make every decision on your own. Delegating tasks and decisions to others can help lighten your load. At work, this might mean assigning tasks to team members. At home, it could involve asking family members to help with chores or meal planning. Sharing the responsibility can help reduce your stress and prevent decision fatigue.

7. Establish a Smooth Routine

This means sticking to a schedule for your week to avoid unnecessary plans, choices, or responsibilities. This allows you to enjoy the present instead of worrying about the future. For example, you could pre-plan your meals for the week or set out your clothes the night before. By reducing the number of small decisions, you save your mental energy for more important ones.

Conclusion

In conclusion, decision fatigue is a challenge many of us face, but it can be managed. By simplifying your choices, making important decisions early, creating routines, delegating tasks, limiting decision-making time, practicing self-care, and prioritizing, you can reduce the mental strain and improve your ability to make good decisions. These strategies can help you feel more in control and relaxed simultaneously! If you feel overwhelmed and would like professional help, contact my office to schedule an appointment for anxiety therapy.