There are two types of people in this world, according to psychologist Barry Schwartz: “satisficers” who settle for “good enough”, and “maximizsrs” who always try to choose the best possible option. Guess which type is happier.
Photo by pasukaru76
Yep, the satisficers. Unlike maximisers, who might always be questioning their decisions, suffering from FOMO (fear of missing out), and constantly being disappointed as their expectations rise, satisficers can settle for things that are just acceptable even if you know there might be something better out there.
This is Shwartz’ advice given in an interview with Eric Barker:
Whenever you need a new laptop, call up one of your maximiser friends and say, “What laptop did you buy?” And you buy that laptop. Is it going to be the perfect laptop for you? Probably not. Is it going to be a good enough laptop for you? Absolutely. It takes you five minutes to make a decision instead of five weeks and it’s a “good enough” decision.
Good enough is just right.
The Power of “Good Enough” [The Atlantic]
Comments
2 responses to “Increase Your Happiness By Learning To Settle For Good Enough”
Schwartz tells you to not strive to be the best, and to leech of the people who do.
I think I’m fine striving for greatness, thanks.
Gotta love Lifehacker
2pm – ‘Good Enough’ Isn’t Always Good Enough
8pm – Increase Your Happiness By Learning To Settle For Good Enough