The Paradox of Choice
by Barry Schwartz
Schwartz on why more options produce less satisfaction: decision paralysis, escalated expectations, regret and the difference between maximizers, who seek the best, and satisficers, who seek good enough and are happier. Some of the research has been contested; the practical advice, choose when to choose and settle for good enough, holds up.
Read it if…
you agonize over decisions and feel worse after making them.
Skip it if…
you are already a contented satisficer.
Three things you will actually use
- Satisfice: good enough is enough.
- Limit options before deciding.
- Make decisions irreversible when possible; it reduces regret.
Do this first
Pick one recurring decision and make it once, permanently: the same breakfast, the same brand, the same route.
Our verdict
Useful and freeing; aim for good enough.
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