The Burden of Overchoice
If you’re anything like me, you get excited by the copious amount of new films you want to watch, the books you’re eager to read, the latest travel trend to latch on to.
But often, this excitement can turn into worry. The worry that I don’t have enough time to do all these things and never will do. The disappointing truth that at some point, I’ll need to choose. I’ll have to prioritise. And, ultimately, cut down the options available to me.
For many like me, this isn’t just worrying, it’s anxiety. The sudden fear of making the wrong decision and wave of regret and self-shaming if I do make a decision and it doesn't work out.
What is Overchoice?
Overchoice is a cognitive process where we experience difficulty making a decision when given a number of options. The too-much-choice effect can make us feel overwhelmed and can increase feelings of dissatisfaction with the choice we eventually make.
We can experience fear of there being a better option or even paralysis to make a decision.
Many people experience worry when they are forced to make, what is considered, a big decision. Moving to another country. Changing career. Starting or ending a relationship.
For me, I experience worry when making everyday decisions. Should I listen to a podcast, draw, go to a yoga class, meet up with a friend, the list is endless. Being an imaginative person doesn’t always help in these scenarios either. I can come up with a huge list of potential options to select (it does come in handy during brainstorming sessions though!).
Strategies for overcoming Overchoice
- Categorise your choices
If you bulk all your options together it is likely you’re going to feel overwhelmed. But, if you start to compile your options into separate categories, the task can suddenly seem more manageable.
2. Write a pros and cons list
It’s an oldie, but a goodie. Line up your list of pros and cons side by side so you can visualise how each decision weighs up. This technique works for big and small decisions. Bigger decisions will likely require a longer, more thought out list and can always benefit from a second opinion.
3. Take a break from the decision and come back to it with fresh eyes
Starting to feel exhausted from all this roundabout decision making? Take a break. Anxiety can make you feel worn out and can stop you from thinking straight. Leave your decision making and come back to it after a night’s sleep.
4. Remember that your choice isn’t set in stone
We all learn from our experiences.
At some point, you’ll likely have to make a decision and roll with it. Remember that if it doesn't go to plan, you’ll still have gained some experience and all experiences add to our tool belt of skills and resilience.
