As human beings, it is normal to feel scared when things are uncertain and unstructured. The fear of the unknown and not having a set of rules to follow, can be scary since we can literally create a new world and write our own rules. Yet, other than the excitement of new possibilities, it is common to feel paralysed by an overwhelming number of choices. Interestingly, when there are too many choices, we may find it difficult to decide and may sometimes decide to not choose at all. This phenomenon is commonly known as choice paralysis or decision paralysis. Like the name suggests, paralysis here refers to an inability to make a timely decision. This is due to the large amount of information that we have to process in order to make the decision. In our daily lives, choice paralysis can often be observed when one stands in the aisle of a supermarket, spoilt for choices, wondering which country’s products they want to purchase. For example, just the sheer variety of milk available on the shelves can cause one to spend significant amount of time before deciding on one. So why does making a decision take more time when we have more options?
When we make a decision, our limited pool of mental resources would be used to analyse all the options before arriving at the decision. As such, when there are too many options to analyse, our brains can feel overwhelmed with the amount of information it has to process. This may cause the decision maker to feel mentally exhausted during and after the decision making process. In some instances, the decision maker would be too exhausted to execute the action even after the decision is made. As it takes a significant amount of mental resources to go through this information before making a decision, we may sometimes fall trap to status quo bias. Status quo bias refers to one’s preference for things to remain the way it is. As such, resisting change or refusing to try something new as they do not want to go through the process of choosing again.
Typically, we may keep choosing the same option – the status quo option because we do not want to spend additional mental resources analysing the options and the potential benefits and loss. Hence, we may be tempted to remain status quo since that is usually the easiest option – no action required. Based on various research, when it comes to making an important choice, people are more likely to pick the option that maintains things as they are. Thus, even though there may be some risks due to potential changes, denying change can also cause one to lose out on potential benefits that could have outweighed the risks.
How does it affect us?
It is common for us to have a fear of change. Common concerns associated with change include a lack of guidance or direction, fear of failing, and fear of having to put in hard work to adapt to change. Moreover, when the current solution works, people tend to perceive change as an unnecessary burden. These factors are in conflict with the ever-changing world that we live in. Often, we can observe resistance in organisations that are introducing new technology or updating an interface to include more features and shortcuts. These changes, albeit small, can already lead to some resistance and frustration. Hidden resistance can causeone to pretend to comply while attempt to sabotage the effort to change or delay acting on the change. As a result, these processes can hinder on our growth.
Societal impact
Across various research, status quo biases have shown prevalence in policy-making and governance. As policies naturally have greater impact in the society, the risks involved are also much higher. Thus, to some, the possible losses could stand out more than its potential gains. Interestingly, in policy related decisions, research has shown that the mere existence and longevity of these policies can contribute to people’s preference for status quo. However, for the majority where the policy may work for them, they may fail to consider the minority that may not be included or has fallen through the loopholes of these policies. Therefore, it is crucial for us to not only focus on the risks but rather, understand the potential gains - progress, inclusivity, and innovation when faced with potential changes.
Moving forward
Like all things, there are always two sides of the coin. Status quo bias prevents us from making high-risks decisions that could be harmful to us. It provides one with the feeling of security and stability in today’s rapidly changing world. However, we have seen how embracing change can help to make this world more inclusive and livable place for everyone. As such, as we move forward together, let us consider the potential benefits rather than focusing on possible loss. You may find more about you, others, and the world when you step out of your comfort zone.
Interesting read
https://ejpr.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1475-6765.12434