Wednesday, April 30, 2014

The Art of Choosing reflections

[The Art of Choosing]

We've been having an extended conversations about Sheena Iyengar's The Art of Choosing over the last several weeks. We've covered issues related to cultural background and choice, the science of choosing, informed intuition, values associated with choice, and various other issues. 

What have you learned about the art of choosing, so to speak, that stands out? Or, what idea from the first half of the book has been especially memorable and why?

10 comments:

Shervonti Norman said...

I have learned that decision making is not always easy and that often we are faced to make decisions with many possible choices. One idea that really stood out to me was being faced with many different choices can lead people to not even make a choice. That showed up with the study of the jam jars. The people that had many choices in flavors were less likely to actually buy anything but the people that had limited choices had an idea of exactly what they wanted and were more likely to buy. Something else that really stands out to me is that there are times when the most unappealing choice is the one with the best outcome. A very broad example that I have applied to my life... studying may not seem all too appealing but studying is associated with good grades and good grades are needed to get a degree.

Lindsey McCall said...

What I've learned most about the art of choosing is how to chose. I've learned to actually evaluate the reasons behind my choices and make sure that it is the best possible choice for me and my future.

Andrea R. said...

I found chapter 3 to be the most interesting because it really made me think about identity and what it really means to "be yourself". Overall the book made me analyze how the choices I've made have effected me or how they possibly will effect me.

Brianna B said...

What I have learned in the art of choosing is the importance of analyzing choice. It's important to take a step back and look not just as the choice you are making, but also why you are making that choice.

Sierra Ewing said...

I learned to make my choices that matter and to appreciate the privilege it is to have the right to choose. I have also learned to take advice from others but to also evaluate for myself what is important. There is something really special about making choices for my future that also positively affect those around me; I won't take that opportunity lightly.

Andriana C. said...

From this text, I have learned that there truly is an "art" to making decisions. I have learned the psychological aspect of making decisions, such as evaluating outcomes, considering the opinions of overseers and how culture limits our decision making. It really makes me rethink how I have gone about my choices in the past and why it is that I made those decisions.

Unknown said...

I have learned that making a choice is not as simple as it may seem. Making a proper choices is not a spontaneous decision. To make a proper choice, there are many aspects of the situation that people have to analyze and consider before taking the plunge. This book also taught me that making choices for my life are up to me. I have to weigh the costs and the consequences. It is all on me.

Alexandra Donaldson said...

I have learned a lot from reading this excellent novel. I learned how to make wiser choices. Sometimes accepting help from people who more skilled can help you make better decisions. Also, analyze the choices before you make them because that can help you make the right choice. This book has been very beneficial and it has helped me to make better decisions.

Anitra B. said...

I have learned that when I have to make a choice, the best thing for me to do is to think of all the possible outcomes then narrow down to the best outcome for me. Doing this makes it easier for me to decide since I am already a very indecisive person. And eliminating options also helps to keep me on track and focused on what I want.

Ashley A. said...

The idea that sticks with me the most is the concept of cognitive dissonance from chapter three, because it is something that I can relate to at the moment in regards to my studying habits and my eating habits. I keep trying to rationalize my procrastination and my sugar binges.