Avoiding Emotional Decision-Making: Strategies for Better Choices

Making decisions under the influence of strong emotions can often lead to outcomes we later regret. Emotions like anger, fear, or excitement can cloud our judgment, causing us to prioritize immediate feelings over long-term benefits. Understanding how emotions impact our choices and implementing strategies to manage them can enhance our decision-making process.

The Impact of Emotions on Decision-Making

Research indicates that emotions significantly influence our decisions. For instance, a study by Lerner et al. (2015) found that emotions can powerfully, predictably, and pervasively affect decision-making processes. Emotions can serve as a source of information, improve decision speed, help assess relevance, and enhance commitment. How then can we be better prepared to manage our emotions?

1. Take a chill pill

When faced with a significant decision, especially during emotional highs or lows, take a moment to pause. This break allows your emotional state to stabilize, enabling clearer thinking. Techniques like mindfulness can help in managing emotions and creating space between feeling and action.

2. Go home and sleep, yes you heard me

Allowing yourself time to assess the situation can provide clarity. A good night's sleep helps in processing emotions and restoring cognitive functions, leading to more rational decisions.

3. Seek External Perspectives

Discussing your situation with a trusted friend, family member, or spouse. You can also call that one trusted friend that you always annoy. They can help you identify your emotions and call you out on your B.S.

Real-World Example

Consider situations where salespeople pressure you into making immediate purchases. This tactic leverages emotional responses, often leading to buyer's remorse. By insisting on taking time to think it over, you regain control and make more informed choices. This is also when you see their face change from excited to uninterested in a second.

Conclusion

While emotions are integral to the human experience, it's crucial to recognize their potential to cloud judgment. By applying these few strategies you will eventually avoid major future regret.