Why even small choices can feel overwhelming

Summary

In this CBS Mornings segment, Dr. Sue Varma, psychiatrist and author of *Practical Optimism*, explains the concept of analysis paralysis—the feeling of being overwhelmed by too many choices and fearing the wrong decision. She highlights the difference between 'satisficers,' who make quick, satisfactory decisions, and 'maximizers,' who overanalyze and struggle to feel content. Dr. Varma offers practical strategies, including the 'Rule of Threes': limit options to three, seek advice from three trusted people, and set a time limit for decisions. By simplifying choices and trusting one’s ability, even complex decisions become more manageable, reducing stress and regret.

Takeaways

• 😀 Analysis paralysis is a type of overthinking that makes it difficult to make decisions, even simple ones.
• 😀 Feeling stuck often comes from overestimating the complexity of a decision and underestimating your ability to handle it.
• 😀 Fear of making the wrong choice and experiencing buyer's remorse contributes to analysis paralysis.
• 😀 Too many options, such as on Netflix or in daily life, can overwhelm and prevent decision-making.
• 😀 There are two types of decision-makers: satisficers, who are quick and generally satisfied with their choices, and maximizers, who analyze extensively but often feel unsatisfied.
• 😀 Satisficers use available information efficiently and avoid regret, while maximizers constantly worry about missing better options.
• 😀 Limiting choices to three options and consulting only three relevant people can help simplify decisions.
• 😀 Setting a time limit for decisions—ranging from minutes for simple choices to weeks for complex ones—can reduce overthinking.
• 😀 Focusing on opinions that are genuinely relevant helps avoid unnecessary confusion from too many inputs.
• 😀 Once a decision is made based on the available information, trusting your gut and sticking with it is key to overcoming indecision.

Q & A

What is analysis paralysis?

Analysis paralysis is the feeling of being unable to make a decision due to overthinking, feeling overwhelmed by choices, and overestimating the complexity of the problem while underestimating your ability to handle it.

What causes analysis paralysis?

It is caused by having too many choices, fear of making the wrong decision, and the belief that there is a perfect choice, leading to stress and indecision.

How does fear of missing out contribute to analysis paralysis?

People fear making the wrong choice and missing out on a better option, which can make them overanalyze and hesitate, assuming they cannot handle negative consequences.

What is the difference between a satisficer and a maximizer?

A satisficer makes decisions quickly using available information and is usually satisfied with their choice, while a maximizer seeks every possible data point, makes thorough choices, but often feels dissatisfied and regrets their decisions.

Why can having too many options make decision-making harder?

Having too many options can cause choice overload, making people more likely to delay or avoid making a decision. Studies show that limiting options increases the likelihood of making a decision and feeling satisfied.

What is the 'rule of threes' recommended by Dr. Varma?

The 'rule of threes' suggests limiting options to three, asking for advice from up to three people, and setting a time limit for decisions according to their complexity (e.g., 3 minutes, 3 weeks, or 3 months).

How can time limits help overcome analysis paralysis?

Setting a specific time limit prevents overthinking and forces you to make a decision within a reasonable period, helping you move forward without getting stuck in endless deliberation.

What role does self-trust play in making decisions?

Trusting your ability to handle the outcomes reduces fear and stress, helping you make decisions confidently without fixating on perfection or potential negative consequences.

How can limiting advice sources improve decision-making?

Asking too many people for input can create conflicting opinions and increase confusion. Limiting advice to a few trusted sources provides clarity and prevents information overload.

What is a practical approach to making decisions in everyday situations?

Use available information, limit options to a manageable number, set a reasonable time frame, seek advice from a few trusted sources if necessary, and commit to your choice without overanalyzing it.

Why do maximizers often feel unhappy despite thorough research?

Maximizers constantly worry about missing a better option and focus on potential regret, which prevents them from feeling satisfied with the decision they ultimately make.

Can analysis paralysis occur even with simple decisions?

Yes, even simple decisions like choosing what to eat or what movie to watch can trigger analysis paralysis if the person feels overwhelmed by options or fears making the wrong choice.