Modern culture whispers that every choice must be optimal: - Find the BEST restaurant - Buy the PERFECT gift - Choose the IDEAL vacation - Select the OPTIMAL investment - Create the PERFECT morning routine
This pressure to optimize everything creates analysis paralysis, decision regret, and cognitive exhaustion. Worse, it steals time from experiences that actually matter.
The Maximizer's Curse
Psychologist Barry Schwartz identified two decision-making styles:
Maximizers seek the absolute best option: - Research extensively - Compare endless alternatives - Second-guess after choosing - Feel regret even with good outcomes - Take longer to decide
Satisficers seek "good enough" options: - Set criteria upfront - Choose first option meeting criteria - Move on after deciding - Feel content with choices - Decide quickly
Research consistently shows satisficers are happier, less stressed, and achieve similar or better outcomes with fraction of the effort.