Wednesday, March 13, 2013

A.O.C.: Zeroing in on Choices

Haley Scholars Spring 2013 Reading Groups

By Danielle Hall

In the first section of chapter 6 of The Art of Choosing, Sheena Iyengar addresses a few key phrases related to making better choices such as "zeroing in," "simplifying,” or "making a distinction between." She encourages us to think about how having less options often sets the tone for better and sometimes wiser decisions (192-93).

Iyengar's discussion of how skilled chess players consider “only the most viable tactics" in order to "plan multiple moves in advance with relatively little mental effort” resembles the old adage about “playing smarter, not harder” to win. Iyengar notes that “experts can simplify their own choices, which in turn allows them to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by more choice” (193). By contrast, novices need assistance simplifying choices.

How did Iyengar's observations about the significance of "zeroing in" alter or strengthen your perspectives about the processes of making effective choices?

5 comments:

Jacqueline C. said...

Iyengar's observatiosn made me think about how people do want more options when it comes to making choices, but when we are presented with a variety, it becomes much more difficult to choose.I deal with this everyday and I try to narrow my choices down to the one's of most significance and reading Iyengar's observations, I related to what she was saying.

Jenee' B. said...

Lyengar's observations helped me to realize that even though it may become more difficult to make a decision when endless choices are offered, it is still possible to make a good decision; sometimes even easily. It makes sense that if one is more specific about what they want and learns what would work best in different situations the amount of choices will seem less intimidating. Thus, one can find the option that is best for them and feel confident in their decision.

Raven Cole said...

i agree with lyengar's observation on "zeroing in". When faced with decisions I have a hard time making choices. I hate choosing. I am one of those people who will run myself ragged trying to do both. I need to stat deciding which choices come first and start prioritizing. When we eliminate the unnecessary options, we can make our decisions more effectively and efficiently.

Wole Abraham said...

Lyengar's observations allowed me to reflect on my lifestyle and my choices. Everyone tends to find it hard to choose between two things, especially if you like both of the things. When it comes to choosing it is better to narrow down your choices so you pick whats best for you in the end.

Mariah B. said...

I agree that the more options or choices you have, the harder it is to decide, because this is how I am when it comes to making decisions. I would rather have fewer decisions to chose from because it would be easier to make the decisions, but at the same time I like having more choices gives me a better chance at making the better choice.