How to take smart decisions

After reading this post, we’ll see:

• Why you should take fewer decisions

• A simple framework with examples

TL; DR;

Use a simple, 3 - step framework to free your mind for decisions which matter

Ever fell drained by the number of decisions you make daily?

It's like a never - ending stream you're swimming against.

And you drop the ball on important decisions.

Decision fatigue

Studies show that doctors are much more likely to make critical errors - When working long shifts.

Decision fatigue is a real thing. Not only for doctors, but for everyone else.

According to research, we take 35,000 decisions / day.

Mind blown? Same here.

But there are ways to simplify.

Make fewer decisions.

This helps conserve mental energy for things that matter.

But how to get started?

1. Measure

Observe yourself for a week.

What decisions do you repeat daily / weekly?

e.g.

• What do I wear today?

• What do I cook today?

• What groceries do I need?

2. Automate

a) Wear

Create a capsule wardrobe.

• A tightly - curated collection of clothing.

• Mix & match for combinations.

• Fewer pieces, less. decisions.

Barack Obama and Steve Jobs both limited their wardrobe choices to reduce decision fatigue.

Obama stuck to gray or blue suits, while Jobs famously wore the same black turtleneck and jeans.

b) Cook

Make a meal chart.

• This is how mine looks.

• Bored?Keep 3 versions.

• No more deciding.

Interested? Read more here.

c) Groceries

Stick a list on your fridge.

• This is a running list on my fridge.

• Keep adding, pick when you go.

• No more missed items.

3. Eliminate

I have a simple rule. Replace questions with statements.

It helps the other person reduce the number of decisions.

e.g. instead of "where shall we go for dinner" say "let's go to Thai bistro for dinner".

Instead of "what time shall we go to the park" say "let's go to the park at 7 pm".

Instead of "what shall we watch tonight" say "let's watch the X files tonight".

That’s it!!

I hope this concept helps you make smart decisions . If you found this helpful, share with someone who will benefit.

P.S: Did you like this idea? Let me know. I personally respond to each mail.