Have you ever thought about just how many decisions you make in a day? Or have you ever drug yourself out of your warm, cozy bed only to sit with a cup of coffee while your mind starts flooding with questions like: What am I going to have for breakfast? What am I going to wear to work? What do I need to get done today? Is today a yoga day or a HIT day? Should I start a load of laundry now? What am I having for dinner? You probably don't even realize that you start making decisions as soon as your eyes open. By the time you get to work, or school, or whatever, you're already tired and need more caffeine ASAP! This, my friend, is the full fledged affect of decision fatigue. Psychologists say we make about 2,000 decisions an hour! Those tiny, little decisions you make without even realizing it are ultimately wearing you out. Then, when it comes time to make the big decisions in life, you may have a harder time making the most rational choice. Think of your brain like any other muscle, it's going to fatigue if you use it too much.
So how do you fight decision fatigue? One answer is to create routines. I don't like the word routine. For me it has a bad connotation, like a routine doctor's appointment or a workout routine. I don't create routines. I create systems. The end goal is to have as many things as possible in auto-pilot, you just do it without thinking about it, so that you can have more room in your brain for activities!
So how do you start creating systems for yourself? This is where my Mindfulness practice and my Happiness List come into play. Using an objective perspective, start thinking a little outside the box. Start thinking about how the things you do and decisions you make daily might be made better for you. For instance, if figuring out what to eat is clouding your brain, start meal prepping once a week. If deciding what to wear is a problem, adapt a signature style. There isn't a one size fits all for systems. It's about what works for you. The system should ultimately make your life easier, happier and give you back some of your precious time and energy! Decision fatigue is a happiness thief! Don't let it steal your happiness!
Much Light & Love,
Gawa