ELI5: choice paradox
// explanation
What is the paradox of choice?
Imagine going to an ice cream shop with 3 flavors versus 100 flavors [1][3]. You'd think more flavors would make you happier, but actually it can make choosing harder and leave you less satisfied [1][4]. This confusing idea is called the paradox of choice.
Why does having more choices make us sad?
When there are too many options, your brain gets tired trying to compare them all [3][5]. You might also worry that you picked the wrong one, since you didn't get to try all 100 flavors [1]. This stress and worry can actually make you unhappy instead of happy [5].
What does it feel like?
It feels like being stuck in quicksand—the more you struggle to pick the perfect option, the more stuck you become [3]. You might feel anxious, stressed, or regretful no matter what you choose [5].
How do you fix it?
The trick is to limit your choices on purpose [1][4]. Instead of looking at every option, just pick a good enough choice and stop comparing [1]. This actually makes you feel better and happier with what you picked [4].
// sources
Explores how an overabundance of choice can lead to decision paralysis, unrealistic expectations, and diminished well-being, advocating for limiting choices to ...
The Paradox of Choice – Why More Is Less is a book about overchoice written by American psychologist Barry Schwartz and first published in 2004 by Harper ...
The paradox of choice suggests that an abundance of options actually requires more effort to choose and can leave us feeling unsatisfied with our choice.
The paradox is that even though having more choices seems better, it is only better up to a certain extent.
Sep 21, 2020 ... Having too many choices, with its overwhelming choice overload, might give us anxiety, stress, and depression instead of happiness.
Video by TED
Video by WizBuskOut - Books & Beyond
Video by Sprouts
