From small choices like what to eat for lunch to life-changing commitments, the decision-making process can be challenging. Many of us fall into traps that obstruct our ability to make the best decisions. However, research shows that highly intelligent people tend to avoid these pitfalls.
Mike Erwin, a leadership and psychology expert and assistant professor at West Point, has researched the psychological traps we go under when making decisions. In his analysis, shared through the Harvard Business Review, Erwin highlights how decision fatigue, emotional hijacking, and the inability to focus due to receiving constant information can negatively impact our judgment.
Let’s review these traps and what strategies highly intelligent people apply to avoid them.
1. They time their decisions strategically
Decision fatigue is real. Studies reveal that our ability to make thoughtful decisions declines as the day progresses. For example, a 2011 study found that prisoners were more likely to be granted parole in the morning than later in the day because judges were mentally fresher.
Intelligent people prioritize important decisions during high-energy times, usually earlier in the day. This ensures they can focus fully without exhaustion.
2. They seek diverse input
Good decisions require varied perspectives. Yet, in many groups a few dominant voices take over the conversation, leaving quieter individuals unheard. This imbalance can lead to blind spots. Smart leaders actively create an inclusive environment for decision-making and encourage input from everyone, especially those more reserved.
3. They don’t multitask
Neuroscientists estimate that multitasking can reduce decision-making efficiency by 40%. While it might feel productive, multitasking impairs focus, slows down mental processing, and increases mistakes. Smart individuals understand this and prioritize staying fully present in the moment. They actively avoid distractions, whether it’s putting their phones on silent, closing unnecessary tabs, or practicing mindfulness techniques to enhance their focus.
4. They don’t get analysis paralysis
Gathering information is crucial, but overanalyzing can lead to stagnation and the fear of making the wrong choice often delays progress. Instead, intelligent individuals use a mix of intuition (60%) and data (40%) to guide their decisions. This approach allows them to move forward confidently without getting stuck by endless details.
5. They stay in control of their emotions
Acting out of anger, frustration, or fear often leads to regrettable decisions. Smart people pause, process their feelings, and approach decisions with a clear head. While emotions can play a role, they ensure logic takes the lead, avoiding rushed judgments they might regret later.
6. They take time to unplug
In today’s hyperconnected world, constant notifications and information overload can make it hard to focus. Smart decision-makers look for moments to disconnect and, before tackling big decisions, they step away from screens and find a quiet space to think. This mental clarity helps them approach choices with a calm and focused mindset.
Great decision-making isn’t about being perfect, but about being intentional. By timing your decisions wisely, seeking input, staying focused, avoiding overanalysis, managing emotions, and unplugging, you can elude common traps and start making smarter and more confident decisions every day.
