by Gemma Delaney

A black and white photograph of a woman deep in thought; her hand is on her temple, she’s surrounded by streams of paperwork underneath dim lighting, signifying her mental exhaustion.

All of us can recall a time when under stress or fatigue, we’ve made rash decisions, regretting them later. This is known as decision fatigue, a condition that degrades our ability to make rational, well-thought-out, and prompt decisions. Let’s delve into this concept, understand its symptoms, and learn how to combat it effectively.

The Warning Signs of Decision Fatigue

Decision fatigue can manifest itself through a growing inclination for impulsivity. We tend to let our emotions rule our decisions, either quickly deciding without considering all details, or getting stuck in an endless cycle of thoughts with no clear conclusion. Other signs could include an intense feeling of pressure, fluctuating moods, headaches, widespread body pain, bouts of anxiety, disturbed sleep, and difficulty concentrating.

This mental exhaustion can even influence decisions beyond workplace scenarios. You might opt out of your fitness routine, prefer fast food over a home-cooked meal, or make hasty financial decisions, like overspending online.

Strategies to Overcome Decision Fatigue

Nurture Your Nervous System

The stronger your nervous system’s resilience to stress, the more capacity it has to handle pressure. Consuming specific nutrients that fortify your nervous health can create a tolerance against strain.

Streamline Decision-Making

Selective decision-making is a handy tool. Some decisions need considered thought, while others can follow a set pattern. For instance, weekly meal plans help reduce daily decision making. A fixed rotation of healthy meals can save time and free mental space for other tasks.

Recognize Your Prime Time

Capitalizing on your peak performance hours is crucial. Start your day with the most challenging tasks to avoid mounting stress. This will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed, improving your productivity as a result.

Boost Yourself with Positive Reinforcement

A tidy to-do list to monitor your progress creates a sense of control and satisfaction. Stick to a brief yet comprehensive list of 5-7 tasks to avoid supplementing your decision fatigue.

Take Purposeful Breaks

Contrary to popular belief, taking a break isn’t a sign of defeat but an opportunity to recharge. Brief periods of fresh air, deep-breathing exercises, even a short nap can restore your cognitive capacity. You might also want to consider scheduling breaks during your less productive hours.

Always remember, flexibility in your routine can significantly curtail decision fatigue. Develop your strategies, understand your body and mind rhythms, and optimize your daily work schedule. Let’s beat decision fatigue and make better decisions!

Article reviewed by Phoebe Liebling, a Nutritional Therapist.

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