PARALYZED BY CHOICES

We live in an age where there is an oversupply of choices and options.

I remembered, I was two or three, when we only had 2 channels in our black and white television set which was given away by a generous relative. Those days when only a few people in the community can afford to own a set, the whole community will gather to watch whatever show it had on. It was fun, having all your neighbors in one room, all glued to the tube. Those were the days. 

Now, we have hundreds of channels to choose from cable and over the video streaming, there are hundreds of shows to watch. There are also pay-per-view channels to choose from and of course, the extinct DVD/CD watching, which became a staple in 90s and early 2000s. 

How is this  oversupply of choices make for decision-making?

We become paralyzed, unable to make the right choice.

We have to conduct research to suit our 'unique' situation and preferences, and most of the time, postpone making a decision.

When the need to become more informed is a prerequisite, it has become too much of a burden to even do it.

Most of the time, we listen and rely on the most popular feedback or comment about the product or service from friends and people we trust.

This has not changed although, there are more creative and insidious ways than ever before to promote and spread buzz around. There is a store in our area that says 'closing sale' for few consecutive years now. They haven't closed ever. 

This paralysis analysis over products and services will continue because we will have more choices for some things and less for some things in the future. That distinction is something that we need to grapple on.

​At the microcosm of the decision-making, here are some ways to stamp out the paralysis analysis: 

1. Know the 'musts' and be open to 'preferences.'
There are certain things you can't live without and there are certain things your spouse/children or relatives or friends would prefer more than you do. You can live with the latter.

2. Know the real need it is trying to resolve.
The seller will sell you all kinds of features but is it actually resolving the need, replacing the old, and giving you a new framework to live with?


3. Investigate but keep an open mind.
There are tons of fake news and comments about products and services. 1/2 of the people will say it is good and half will say don't even go there. But it is up to you to you know what you don't know and try it before you can make an honest judgement.


How are you dealing with too many choices and considerations? Share your thoughts here.