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Get plenty of rest and create routes to avoid “decision fatigue.”

Get plenty of rest and create routes to avoid “decision fatigue.”

The number one cause of decision fatigue is lack of sleep.

Every day we make dozens of decisions – both big and small.

And when you add them all up, a person can feel exhausted.

“Decision fatigue” is the mental exhaustion we experience when making many decisions in one day. This can lead to poor decision making or difficulty making decisions and choices,” said Dr. Susan Albers, a psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic.

Dr. Albers said “decision fatigue” can also lead to procrastination, decision avoidance, feelings of paralysis, emotional fog and impulsive decisions.

So what can you do to relieve fatigue?

To start, she suggests creating a daily routine. This way you know what to expect every day.

The same goes for limiting your options, such as what to eat for dinner.

You can have Meatless Mondays or Taco Tuesdays.

Another good tool can be to stay organized with a calendar.

And don’t be afraid to delegate decisions.

For example, if your child is old enough, let him choose his own clothes. This teaches them independence and eases your mental load.

Lastly, make sure you are getting enough sleep.

“The main cause of decision fatigue is lack of sleep. Research has shown that we have difficulty making decisions when we are overly tired or feeling fatigued,” Dr. Albers said. “The best defense and way to guard against decision fatigue is to get a good night’s sleep.”

If you still feel overwhelmed in your daily life, it is best to consult a mental health professional. They can provide additional advice on how to cope with any difficulties.