Today is an important day in America: it’s decision day.
Many people will be going to the polls today to vote for the president, amendments and more.
And we make dozens of decisions -- some big, some small -- every day.
All of these decisions can lead to exhaustion.
“‘Decision fatigue’ is the mental exhaustion that we experience from making many decisions in one day. It can lead to poor decision-making, or difficulty making decisions and choices,” said Dr. Susan Albers, a psychologist for Cleveland Clinic.
“Decision fatigue” can also lead to procrastination, avoiding decisions, feeling paralyzed, emotional fog, and impulsive decisions, Albers said.
Here are some things someone can do to relieve their fatigue:
- Create a routine so you know what to expect.
- Limit your options like what to eat for dinner. Do meatless Mondays or taco Tuesdays.
- Use a calendar to stay organized.
- Don’t be afraid to delegate decisions. For example, if your child is old enough, let them pick out their own clothes.
- Finally, make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep.
“The No. 1 cause of decision fatigue is being sleep deprived,” Albers said. “Studies have shown that we struggle to make decisions when we are overly tired or feeling fatigued. The best defense and way to buffer yourself from decision fatigue is to get a good night’s sleep.”
If you are still feeling overwhelmed in your daily routine, it’s best to consult with a mental health professional. They can provide more advice on how to navigate any challenges.