Or, why I still haven’t bought a mattress
I’ve intended to buy a new mattress for, oh, about a year now. I’ve actually gone to Macy’s and lain down on probably 20 or so mattresses to figure out what I like and don’t like. I’ve looked at reviews of mattresses online, and at one point was pretty close to pulling the trigger.
But I haven’t. This is probably a 10-year investment, and I feel a lot of pressure to make the right choice. So instead I’ve continued to sleep on my too small, cheap Sealy that gets way too hot in summer and is surely less comfortable than even the least comfortable mattress I’ve tried out.
Even if there is a better mattress at a better price out there for me, getting a less-than-ideal mattress is better than the status quo. So why can’t I make a decision?
One problem might be that I simply have too many options to pick from.
In the mid-90s, Columbia professor Sheena Iyengar and Stanford’s Mark Lepper set up a tasting booth with jams at Draeger’s Supermarket in Menlo Park. One day, they set up a booth with a limited selection of six jams. Another day, they set up a booth with an extensive selection of 24 jams.
Customers could sample as many as they wanted, but on average, no matter which booth they encountered, they tried between one and two jams.
The stand with the extensive selection attracted more shoppers than the limited-selection booth, but the limited-selection booth was far more effective in getting people to purchase. In fact, while 30% of shoppers who tasted at the six-jam booth ended up buying a jar, only 3% of shoppers at the 24-jam booth bought one.
In a separate study, they had undergraduate psychology students watch Twelve Angry Men and gave them the option to complete an essay in response to it for extra credit. (The undergrads didn’t know they were part of a study. “Intro to Social Psych” students, take note!)
One group of students could choose from six essay topics. The second group chose from 30 topics. But while 74% of the six-topic students ended up completing the assignment, only 60% of the 30-topic students turned it in.
In both cases, you’d think that having a lot of choices would be viewed by the subjects as a good thing. Indeed, the test subjects reported enjoying making decisions more when they had more to choose from.
But having a lot of choices also made them think more about the consequences of making a “bad” choice or passing up potentially “better” options.
“Maybe jam #15 would taste even better than jam #7! Ah, I’ll just think about it and come back later.”
Don’t let “great” be the enemy of “good.”
There are several theories as to why we can’t make decisions when presented with too many choices. Some people think it’s not the presence of a lot of choices themselves, but the absence of information about the choices. Maybe if those jam-tasters had put all 24 jams in their mouths they wouldn’t have had a problem picking one.
Likewise, maybe it’s so hard to get people to invest because there are seemingly endless companies with which to open accounts and then even more mutual funds to choose from.
But here’s the thing. Investing in any mutual fund is probably going to be better than cash. Your simple stock/bond allocation matters much more than whether you choose the S&P 500 ETF or the S&P Value ETF.
Likewise, almost any mattress will be better than the cheap-o mattress I have. Those jam tasters, assuming they liked one of the jams they tried, would be happy eating it. And those college students who couldn’t pick from 30 topics would have gotten the extra credit had they picked any of them.
Here are some other common “enemy of the good” scenarios I see frequently from myself and others:
— Waiting for the perfect moment to ask for a raise.
— Waiting for the right economic climate or set of personal circumstances to start your own business.
— Waiting for the low-point of the market to start investing.
— Trying to find the perfect diet or workout regimen. In the meantime, continuing to eat ice cream and hot dogs.
— Looking for the right time to change careers and the perfect career to change to (assuming they’re unhappy in their current spot)
In all these scenarios, simply doing anything would probably lead to a better result than doing nothing.
Limit your choices to inspire action.
Let’s return briefly to my mattress problem—which my occasionally aching back and droopy eyelids can attest is all-too-real. What I should have done (and what I should do) is set a scope of research to carry out before making a decision.
So say I decided to visit three stores and then return to my favorite and buy it. Would I get the best mattress ever conceived by man? Probably not. But that’s enough testing to get me to a pretty darn good mattress without leaving endless possible Googling, review reading, and shopping.
In the same way, maybe you can set a deadline for yourself to ask for a raise. If the opportune time hasn’t arisen by, say, May 20th, just ask and get the ball rolling.
Anyway, if you have other ways to avoid decision paralysis, let’s hear them. My back will thank you.
{ 308 comments… read them below or add one }
← Previous Comments
WONDERFUL Post.thanks for share..more wait .. ?
Thanks for your posting. What I want to say is that when you are evaluating a good internet electronics shop, look for a internet site with complete information on key elements such as the personal privacy statement, safety measures details, payment options, and various terms as well as policies. Generally take time to look at help and FAQ sections to get a greater idea of what sort of shop is effective, what they can perform for you, and how you can take full advantage of the features.
Hi there! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if that would be ok. I’m undoubtedly enjoying your blog and look forward to new updates.
Magnificent goods from you, man. I’ve understand your stuff previous to and you’re just extremely great. I really like what you have acquired here, really like what you’re stating and the way in which you say it. You make it entertaining and you still take care of to keep it sensible. I can not wait to read far more from you. This is actually a wonderful site.
Thanks for your intriguing article. Other thing is that mesothelioma is generally brought on by the breathing of material from asbestos fiber, which is a very toxic material. It can be commonly found among workers in the building industry with long exposure to asbestos. It’s also caused by moving into asbestos insulated buildings for a long period of time, Inherited genes plays a huge role, and some consumers are more vulnerable towards the risk in comparison with others.
Fantastic write-up, learned a lot! Really helpful post, appreciate it. Your posts always have great insights. Here’s a cool video about пранк над цуценям.
Great content, very informative and well written! Really helpful post, appreciate it. Keep up the great work, it’s really helpful. Here’s a cool video about пранк над собакою.
Nicely explained! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Found something related: https://seokmaster.blogspot.com/
Wow that was unusual. I just wrote an incredibly long comment but after I clicked submit my comment didn’t show up. Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again. Anyways, just wanted to say great blog!
I’d also like to convey that most people that find themselves with no health insurance are normally students, self-employed and people who are laid-off. More than half with the uninsured are under the age of 35. They do not really feel they are in need of health insurance simply because they’re young along with healthy. The income is normally spent on real estate, food, and also entertainment. Lots of people that do work either entire or part time are not presented insurance by means of their jobs so they go without as a result of rising tariff of health insurance in the United States. Thanks for the strategies you talk about through this website.
Thanks a lot for your post. I want to comment that the expense of car insurance varies greatly from one insurance plan to another, due to the fact there are so many different facets which play a role in the overall cost. As an example, the make and model of the car will have a large bearing on the charge. A reliable ancient family car or truck will have an inexpensive premium compared to a flashy performance car.
خدمات طراحی حرفه ای وب سایت توسط سایتی گو دات آی آر
با خدمات رپورتاژ و بک لینک ادزنو رتبه اول گوگل شوید
ارائه پاسپورت فیزیکی با کیفیت عالی توسط گرافیسو دات آی آر
اطلاعات تکمیلی درباره کاپیتال پلاس عزیزی هد مدیریتی شرکت های خدماتی در ایران
I like what you guys are up too. Such smart work and reporting! Carry on the excellent works guys I?ve incorporated you guys to my blogroll. I think it will improve the value of my web site
Excellent web site. Lots of useful info here. I?m sending it to a few friends ans also sharing in delicious. And obviously, thanks for your effort!
Magnificent beat ! I wish to apprentice while you amend your website, how could i subscribe for a blog website? The account helped me a acceptable deal. I had been a little bit acquainted of this your broadcast provided bright clear concept
This site is mostly a stroll-by way of for all the info you needed about this and didn?t know who to ask. Glimpse right here, and you?ll undoubtedly discover it.
I was recommended this web site by my cousin. I am not sure whether this post is written by him as nobody else know such detailed about my trouble. You’re amazing! Thanks!
Thanks for some other wonderful article. Where else may just anyone get that type of information in such an ideal manner of writing? I’ve a presentation next week, and I’m at the look for such info.
Thanks for your posting. What I want to point out is that while searching for a good on the web electronics shop, look for a web-site with full information on critical factors such as the level of privacy statement, basic safety details, payment methods, and various terms and also policies. Often take time to read the help in addition to FAQ areas to get a much better idea of the way the shop will work, what they can perform for you, and just how you can make the most of the features.
Papatya tütsüsü, kurutulmuş papatya çiçeklerinin yakılmasıyla elde edilen doğal ve hoş kokulu bir tütsüdür. Yüzyıllardır hem ruhsal hem de fiziksel rahatlama amacıyla kullanılan papatya, özellikle stresin azaltılmasında, uyku sorunlarının giderilmesinde ve negatif enerjilerin temizlenmesinde tercih edilir. Papatya tütsüsü yakıldığında ortama huzurlu bir enerji yayar, sakinleştirici etkisi sayesinde meditasyon ve dua sırasında da kullanılabilir. Ayrıca kötü enerjileri uzaklaştırdığına inanılır. Doğal aroması, zihni ve bedeni dinginleştirir. Bu nedenle papatya tütsüsü, evlerde, ibadet alanlarında ve spiritüel çalışmalarda sıkça kullanılan doğal bir şifa aracıdır.
Zor günlerimde yanımda olan medyum haluk hoca sayesinde hayatım düzene girdi. Bağlama duası yaptırdım ve kısa sürede etkisini gördüm. Gerçekten güvenilir, samimi ve işinin ehli biri. Kesinlikle önemle medyum haluk hocayı öneriyorum, pişman olmayacağınızı bilmelisiniz.
Thank you for putting together such a comprehensive and valuable article. If anyone wants to learn more, I’d recommend checking out this video about мейн кун здоров’я. It adds more depth and visuals to the topic.
Hi, i feel that i saw you visited my site thus i came to ?return the choose?.I am attempting to to find things to improve my website!I guess its good enough to make use of a few of your ideas!!
This is without a doubt one of the finest articles I’ve read on this topic! The author’s comprehensive knowledge and zeal for the subject shine through in every paragraph. I’m so appreciative for coming across this piece as it has enriched my knowledge and sparked my curiosity even further. Thank you, author, for taking the time to craft such a remarkable article!
What i do not realize is actually how you are not actually much more well-liked than you may be right now. You’re very intelligent. You realize thus significantly relating to this subject, made me personally consider it from numerous varied angles. Its like women and men aren’t fascinated unless it?s one thing to do with Lady gaga! Your own stuffs excellent. Always maintain it up!
I am curious to find out what blog system you have been using? I’m having some small security issues with my latest website and I’d like to find something more risk-free. Do you have any recommendations?
Valuable information. Lucky me I found your web site by accident, and I’m shocked why this accident did not happened earlier! I bookmarked it.
Its like you read my mind! You appear to know a lot about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you could do with some pics to drive the message home a little bit, but other than that, this is great blog. A great read. I will certainly be back.
Do you have a spam issue on this website; I also am a blogger, and I was wanting to know your situation; we have developed some nice practices and we are looking to exchange techniques with other folks, be sure to shoot me an email if interested.
Thanks for your advice on this blog. A single thing I would want to say is the fact that purchasing electronic products items on the Internet is not new. In truth, in the past decades alone, the marketplace for online consumer electronics has grown a great deal. Today, you can find practically just about any electronic tool and gizmo on the Internet, which include cameras along with camcorders to computer spare parts and video games consoles.
affordablecanvaspaintings.com.au is Australia Popular Online 100 percent Handmade Art Store. We deliver Budget Handmade Canvas Paintings, Abstract Art, Oil Paintings, Artwork Sale, Acrylic Wall Art Paintings, Custom Art, Oil Portraits, Pet Paintings, Building Paintings etc. 1000+ Designs To Choose From, Highly Experienced Artists team, Up-to 50 percent OFF SALE and FREE Delivery Australia, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart and all regional areas. We ship worldwide international locations. Order Online Your Handmade Art Today.
fantastic points altogether, you simply gained a new reader. What would you suggest in regards to your post that you made some days ago? Any positive?
I will immediately grab your rss as I can not find your e-mail subscription link or e-newsletter service. Do you’ve any? Kindly let me know in order that I could subscribe. Thanks.
Thanks for ones marvelous posting! I seriously enjoyed reading it, you will be a great author.I will always bookmark your blog and will often come back in the future. I want to encourage yourself to continue your great posts, have a nice holiday weekend!
Hi there, I found your site via Google whilst searching for a related topic, your web site came up, it seems good. I’ve bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.
Your web page does not display properly on my iphone 4 – you may wanna try and fix that
Appreciating the time and energy you put into your site and in depth information you provide. It’s good to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same out of date rehashed information. Great read! I’ve saved your site and I’m including your RSS feeds to my Google account.
Thanks for discussing your ideas. I might also like to convey that video games have been ever before evolving. Today’s technology and innovative developments have assisted create authentic and enjoyable games. These types of entertainment video games were not actually sensible when the actual concept was being tried out. Just like other forms of technologies, video games also have had to evolve by means of many years. This itself is testimony to the fast progression of video games.
Do you have a spam issue on this site; I also am a blogger, and I was curious about your situation; many of us have created some nice practices and we are looking to trade solutions with others, be sure to shoot me an e-mail if interested.
Hi there, You’ve done a fantastic job. I will certainly digg it and for my part recommend to my friends. I’m sure they’ll be benefited from this web site.
I really lucky to find this website on bing, just what I was searching for : D likewise saved to fav.
I appreciate, cause I found exactly what I was looking for. You’ve ended my 4 day long hunt! God Bless you man. Have a great day. Bye
I have noticed that online education is getting well-known because attaining your college degree online has changed into a popular choice for many people. A lot of people have definitely not had a possibility to attend a traditional college or university however seek the improved earning possibilities and career advancement that a Bachelor’s Degree gives you. Still other individuals might have a degree in one discipline but want to pursue another thing they already have an interest in.
I have observed that of all varieties of insurance, health care insurance is the most marked by controversy because of the issue between the insurance company’s need to remain making money and the user’s need to have insurance cover. Insurance companies’ earnings on well being plans are low, so some firms struggle to profit. Thanks for the concepts you write about through this web site.
Today, with all the fast chosen lifestyle that everyone leads, credit cards have a huge demand throughout the market. Persons from every area are using credit card and people who aren’t using the credit cards have arranged to apply for 1. Thanks for revealing your ideas on credit cards.
Thanks for this wonderful article. Also a thing is that many digital cameras come equipped with a new zoom lens so that more or less of that scene being included through ‘zooming’ in and out. These kinds of changes in {focus|focusing|concentration|target|the a**** length will be reflected from the viewfinder and on massive display screen right on the back of the camera.
What i do not realize is actually how you’re not actually much more well-liked than you might be right now. You are so intelligent. You realize therefore considerably relating to this subject, made me personally consider it from numerous varied angles. Its like women and men aren’t fascinated unless it’s one thing to do with Lady gaga! Your own stuffs nice. Always maintain it up!
← Previous Comments