FridayOL

Feeling overwhelmed by endless choices? Decision fatigue is a real thing, and it's impacting our lives more than we realise. From what to wear to what to eat, the constant need to decide can leave us drained and stressed. But what if the answer to a simpler, more relaxed life lies in observing our toddlers?

Think about it: toddlers aren't exactly known for their complex decision-making processes. They often gravitate towards familiar routines, favourite toys, and the same meals, again and again. While this might seem repetitive or even boring to an adult, it's actually a brilliant strategy for conserving mental energy. They’re masters of minimising decision fatigue without even trying!

The Science Behind Decision Fatigue

Psychologists have long studied decision fatigue, the phenomenon where our ability to make good decisions diminishes as we make more of them throughout the day. Each choice, no matter how small, depletes our mental resources. This can lead to impulsive decisions, procrastination, and even regret. It's why you might splurge on a treat after a long day of work or find yourself scrolling endlessly through social media when you intended to be productive.

Learning from Little Ones: The Power of Routine

Toddlers understand this instinctively. Their reliance on routine isn't about stubbornness; it's about self-preservation. By repeating activities and sticking to familiar patterns, they avoid the mental drain of constant decision-making. Consider the classic children's book, Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney. The story beautifully illustrates the comfort and joy found in shared routines and familiar interactions between Big Nutbrown Hare and Little Nutbrown Hare.

How to Implement 'Toddler Tactics' in Your Adult Life

So, how can we adults adopt this toddler-inspired approach? Here are a few practical tips:

• Meal Prep & Repeat Meals: Instead of agonizing over what to cook each night, plan your meals for the week and repeat some favourites. Batch cooking on Sundays can be a lifesaver.
• Curate a Capsule Wardrobe: Reduce the stress of choosing outfits by limiting your wardrobe to a collection of versatile pieces you love.
• Automate Recurring Tasks: Set up automatic bill payments, schedule regular cleaning sessions, and use tools to streamline your daily routines.
• Establish Rituals: Create small, comforting rituals – a morning coffee routine, an evening walk, or a bedtime reading habit – to provide structure and predictability.
• Embrace 'Good Enough': Perfectionism fuels decision fatigue. Recognise that 'good enough' is often perfectly acceptable.

The Benefits of a Less Decisive Life

By consciously simplifying our choices and embracing routine, we can reclaim our mental energy, reduce stress, and ultimately, enjoy a more fulfilling life. Just like a happy toddler, we can find joy and contentment in the familiar and the predictable. So, take a leaf out of their book – embrace the power of repetition and say goodbye to decision fatigue!