Perfect is the enemy of good. Even though we have heard this before, many of us are still self-proclaimed perfectionists. We forget that good can be good enough.
The Wall Street Journal published an article last week describing two kinds of decision making styles.
- Maximizers:
- Consider a wide range of options and take their time deciding
- Want the very best
- Tend to be less satisfied and more depressed
- Satisficers:
- Prefer speed to thoroughness
- Choose based on criteria that both satisfies and suffices
- Good enough works
Dr. Barry Schwartz, a psychology professor, has found that while maximizers may find better jobs at higher salaries, they feel worse about their jobs. Maximizers make good decisions yet feel bad about them because there are always more options. They report a lower satisfaction with life.
Satisficers make equally good decisions and feel good about them. Satisficers are happier about their decisions.
- What style do you favor?
- What situations impact your choice?
- How is your decision making process affecting your happiness and those around you?