Exploring the Science of Decision Fatigue

In our fast-paced world, we often underestimate the toll that decision-making takes on our mental resources. Decision fatigue refers to the deteriorating quality of decisions made by an individual after a long session of decision making. Imagine your brain as a battery; the more you use it throughout the day, the more it drains. Just like your phone needs a recharge, so does your mind! By the end of a long day filled with choices, you might find yourself making impulsive decisions or avoiding choices altogether. This article delves deep into the concept of decision fatigue, examining its causes, effects, and strategies to mitigate its impact on our daily lives and overall well-being.

To understand decision fatigue, we first need to explore the psychological mechanisms that contribute to this phenomenon. Our brains are equipped with a limited supply of mental energy, which diminishes with every decision we make. It's fascinating how even small choices, like what to eat for breakfast or which route to take to work, can accumulate and lead to mental exhaustion. When we're faced with too many decisions, our cognitive resources become depleted, leading to poorer choices and increased stress. This is why it's essential to recognize the signs of decision fatigue and implement strategies to combat it.

So, what exactly causes decision fatigue? The factors contributing to this mental drain are multifaceted. Stress levels, the complexity of choices, and individual personality traits all play a significant role. For instance, when you’re under stress, your brain's ability to process information effectively diminishes. This can lead to a vicious cycle where stress contributes to decision fatigue, which in turn exacerbates stress. It's like trying to run a marathon with a backpack full of rocks—every decision feels heavier and more burdensome.

The complexity of choices is another significant factor. Have you ever stood in front of a menu with dozens of options and felt overwhelmed? That’s decision fatigue in action! The more complicated the choices, the greater the mental load. When faced with too many options, our brains can short-circuit, leading to decision paralysis. This is why simplifying choices in our daily lives can be incredibly beneficial. By reducing the number of decisions we need to make, we can conserve our mental energy for the choices that truly matter.

In the sections that follow, we will explore the effects of decision fatigue on our daily lives, including its impact on relationships and workplace productivity. We will also discuss practical strategies for managing stress and simplifying choices, ensuring that we can navigate our days with clarity and purpose. After all, who wouldn’t want to make better decisions with less mental strain? Stay tuned as we unravel the science behind decision fatigue and equip ourselves with the tools to combat it effectively.

• What is decision fatigue? - Decision fatigue is the mental strain that occurs after making numerous decisions, leading to a decline in the quality of subsequent choices.
• How can I reduce decision fatigue? - You can reduce decision fatigue by simplifying your choices, prioritizing important decisions, and implementing stress management techniques.
• What are the signs of decision fatigue? - Signs include feeling overwhelmed, making impulsive choices, and experiencing difficulty in focusing on decisions.

The Psychology Behind Decision Fatigue

Understanding the intricacies of decision fatigue is like peeling back the layers of an onion. At its core, this phenomenon stems from the limited nature of our mental resources. Just like a smartphone battery that drains faster with heavy usage, our brains also experience a decline in decision-making capability as we face a barrage of choices throughout the day. Imagine waking up in the morning with a fresh battery, only to find it dwindling as you navigate through breakfast options, outfit choices, and your commute. Each decision, no matter how trivial it may seem, chips away at your cognitive energy.

Research suggests that our brains operate on a finite pool of willpower and cognitive resources. When we make decisions, we’re essentially using up a form of mental energy that can become depleted over time. This depletion can lead to a state where we feel overwhelmed and unable to make even the simplest choices. Have you ever found yourself staring blankly at a menu, unable to choose what to eat after a long day? That’s decision fatigue in action, and it can leave us feeling frustrated and mentally exhausted.

One of the key psychological mechanisms at play is the concept of cognitive load. This refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. When faced with numerous options, our cognitive load increases, which can lead to poorer decision-making outcomes. For instance, studies have shown that judges are less likely to grant parole after lunch, suggesting that their decision-making ability declines as they tire throughout the day. This phenomenon highlights how our choices can be influenced not just by our preferences but by the very state of our minds.

Moreover, the context in which decisions are made can significantly impact our mental resources. For example, when we are under pressure or facing time constraints, the quality of our decisions tends to suffer. Think about it: have you ever made a hasty decision just because you were running late? This is a classic example of how stress and urgency can cloud our judgment, leading to choices we might regret later.

To further illustrate this, let’s consider a few factors that contribute to decision fatigue:

• Repetitive Choices: Making the same type of decision repeatedly can lead to exhaustion. Think of a parent who has to decide what to pack for lunch every day. Over time, this can wear them down.
• Emotional Investment: Decisions that carry emotional weight, such as choosing a school for your child or buying a house, can drain mental resources even more quickly.
• Information Overload: In today’s digital age, the sheer volume of information can be overwhelming. When faced with too many options or too much data, our ability to make sound decisions diminishes.

Recognizing the signs of decision fatigue is crucial for maintaining our mental well-being. If you find yourself feeling irritable, indecisive, or overwhelmed, it might be time to take a break and recharge. Just as we wouldn’t run a car on an empty tank, we shouldn’t push our minds to the limit without rest. Incorporating moments of rest and mindfulness into our daily routines can help replenish our cognitive resources, allowing us to approach decisions with a clearer mind.

In conclusion, the psychology behind decision fatigue reveals a fascinating interplay between our mental resources and the choices we face daily. By understanding this dynamic, we can implement strategies to mitigate its effects, ultimately leading to better decision-making and a more balanced life.

Factors Contributing to Decision Fatigue

Decision fatigue is not just a whimsical term; it's a real psychological phenomenon that can affect anyone at any time. Understanding the factors that contribute to this mental drain is essential for anyone looking to improve their decision-making abilities. One of the primary culprits is the sheer volume of choices we face daily. Imagine standing in front of a grocery aisle filled with countless cereal options. Each box represents a decision, and as we deliberate on which one to choose, our mental energy begins to wane. This overwhelming array of choices can lead to a state where even simple decisions feel burdensome.

Another significant factor is our stress levels. Stress acts like a thief, robbing us of our cognitive resources. When we are stressed, our brain's ability to process information and make sound decisions diminishes. Think of it this way: when you’re juggling too many tasks at once, it’s easy to drop the ball on something important because your mind is cluttered with worries and distractions. This mental clutter can lead to quicker exhaustion and a higher likelihood of making poor choices.

Additionally, individual personality traits play a role in how we experience decision fatigue. For instance, perfectionists might find themselves paralyzed by the fear of making the wrong choice. They may spend an excessive amount of time weighing pros and cons, leading to a mental overload. Conversely, someone who is more spontaneous might make quicker decisions but could also face regret later, leading to a cycle of second-guessing that contributes to fatigue.

Moreover, the complexity of the decisions we face can exacerbate decision fatigue. The more intricate the decision, the more mental resources it consumes. For example, deciding which investment to make involves analyzing various factors like risk, return, and market conditions, which can be mentally taxing. In contrast, choosing what to wear might seem trivial, but if you have to consider multiple factors like weather, occasion, and personal style, it can quickly become overwhelming.

To illustrate the relationship between these factors and decision fatigue, consider the following table:

By recognizing these factors, we can begin to develop strategies to mitigate their effects. For instance, simplifying choices, managing stress through mindfulness, and being aware of our personality traits can help us navigate the maze of decisions more effectively. Ultimately, understanding the roots of decision fatigue empowers us to make better choices without feeling overwhelmed.

• What is decision fatigue? Decision fatigue refers to the mental exhaustion that occurs after making numerous decisions, leading to a decline in the quality of subsequent choices.
• How can I reduce decision fatigue? You can reduce decision fatigue by limiting the number of decisions you make daily, simplifying choices, and implementing stress management techniques.
• Does decision fatigue affect everyone? Yes, decision fatigue can affect anyone, regardless of their background or profession, especially in high-pressure environments.

The Role of Stress

Stress plays a significant role in our lives, often acting as a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can motivate us to tackle challenges and meet deadlines; on the other, it can lead to overwhelming feelings that sap our mental resources. When we experience stress, our brain enters a heightened state of alertness, which can be beneficial in short bursts. However, prolonged exposure to stress can deplete our cognitive resources, leading to what is known as decision fatigue. This phenomenon occurs when the mental energy required to make choices becomes exhausted, leaving us feeling drained and unable to think clearly.

Imagine your brain as a battery. Throughout the day, every decision you make—whether it's choosing what to wear, what to eat, or how to respond to emails—drains a bit of that battery life. Stress accelerates this depletion. When you're under stress, your brain is already working overtime, processing emotions and reactions that require mental bandwidth. As a result, the energy available for making decisions diminishes even faster. This is why you might find yourself making poor choices or feeling overwhelmed by even the simplest decisions after a long, stressful day.

To illustrate this concept, consider the following table that summarizes the effects of stress on decision-making:

Understanding how stress affects our decision-making is crucial for managing it effectively. When we’re aware of the role stress plays, we can take proactive steps to mitigate its impact. For instance, incorporating stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or even simple breathing exercises can help replenish our mental resources. These practices can serve as a mental reset, allowing us to approach decisions with a clearer mind and renewed energy.

In essence, recognizing the relationship between stress and decision fatigue is the first step toward improving our decision-making capabilities. By managing our stress levels, we can enhance our cognitive performance and make more thoughtful, deliberate choices rather than succumbing to the pitfalls of fatigue-induced impulsivity. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by decisions, take a moment to breathe and reflect. It might just be the key to unlocking better choices in your life.

Chronic vs. Acute Stress

When we talk about stress, it’s essential to distinguish between chronic and acute stress, as they play different roles in our lives and influence our decision-making processes in unique ways. Acute stress is the type of stress that hits us suddenly and intensely. Think of it as a sudden storm that rolls in, causing a flurry of activity and a rush of adrenaline. This type of stress is often short-lived, triggered by specific events like an upcoming deadline, a public speaking engagement, or even a thrilling roller coaster ride. It can be invigorating, pushing us to perform at our best and make quick decisions. However, once the storm passes, we typically return to a state of calm, allowing our cognitive resources to replenish.

On the other hand, chronic stress is like a persistent drizzle that never seems to stop. It accumulates over time, often resulting from ongoing pressures such as work demands, financial worries, or strained relationships. This type of stress can wear us down, leading to a depletion of our mental resources. The longer we endure chronic stress, the more it can impact our ability to make decisions effectively. The toll it takes can manifest in various ways, including fatigue, irritability, and even physical health problems. As our cognitive resources dwindle, we may find ourselves making poorer choices or avoiding decisions altogether.

To better understand the differences between these two types of stress, let’s take a look at the following table:

In summary, while acute stress can sometimes sharpen our decision-making skills, chronic stress tends to erode them. Understanding this distinction is crucial, as it helps us recognize when we need to take a step back and recharge our mental batteries. By managing both types of stress effectively, we can enhance our decision-making capabilities and improve our overall well-being.

So, how do we combat chronic stress and its effects on our decision-making? It starts with recognizing the signs and implementing effective stress management techniques, which we will explore in the following sections.

Stress Management Techniques

Managing stress effectively is crucial for combating decision fatigue. When our minds are cluttered with stress, making choices can feel overwhelming, and we might find ourselves stuck in a loop of indecision. To break this cycle, incorporating into our daily routine can be a game changer. Here are some strategies that can help:

First and foremost, consider practicing mindfulness meditation. This technique encourages you to focus on the present moment, allowing your mind to clear away distractions and reduce anxiety. Just a few minutes a day can significantly enhance your mental clarity and resilience against stress. Imagine your mind as a cluttered desk; mindfulness is like tidying it up, making it easier to find what you need.

Another effective approach is to engage in regular physical activity. Exercise is not just good for your body; it’s also a powerful tool for your mind. It releases endorphins, which are natural stress relievers. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga class, or a high-energy workout, moving your body can help you feel more energized and less overwhelmed by decisions. Consider it a way to hit the refresh button on your brain!

Additionally, establishing a consistent sleep schedule can greatly impact your stress levels. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate decision fatigue, making it harder to think clearly. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Think of sleep as your body's nightly recharge; without it, your mental battery runs low, making even simple decisions feel monumental.

Moreover, don’t underestimate the power of social support. Talking things out with friends or family can provide new perspectives and alleviate the pressure of decision-making. Sometimes, just voicing your thoughts can help you see things more clearly. It’s like having a trusted advisor who can help you navigate through the fog of confusion.

Lastly, you might find it helpful to prioritize your decisions. Not every choice carries the same weight. By categorizing decisions into high, medium, and low priority, you can save your mental energy for what truly matters. For instance, deciding what to have for lunch can be a low-priority choice, while deciding on a career move is high priority. By focusing your cognitive resources where they count the most, you’ll reduce the overall burden on your mind.

In summary, incorporating these stress management techniques can significantly enhance your decision-making capacity and overall well-being. By being proactive about your mental health, you not only combat decision fatigue but also pave the way for a more fulfilling and less stressful life.

• What is decision fatigue? Decision fatigue refers to the deteriorating quality of decisions made after a long session of decision-making. It can lead to impulsive choices and decreased self-control.
• How can I recognize if I'm experiencing decision fatigue? Signs include feeling overwhelmed by choices, making poor decisions, and experiencing increased frustration or anxiety when faced with decisions.
• Can decision fatigue affect my health? Yes, it can lead to stress-related health issues, as poor decision-making can impact lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise.
• Are there specific techniques to prevent decision fatigue? Yes, techniques such as prioritizing decisions, practicing mindfulness, and ensuring adequate rest can help mitigate decision fatigue.

Complexity of Choices

The complexity of choices we face daily can be overwhelming, and it significantly contributes to decision fatigue. Imagine standing in front of a vast buffet with a plethora of dishes. Each option looks delectable, but the sheer number of choices can lead to paralysis. This is similar to how our brains react when bombarded with multiple decisions. When faced with intricate options, our mental resources are stretched thin, leading to quicker exhaustion.

Research has shown that as the number of choices increases, so does the cognitive load. This means that every decision we make requires a certain amount of mental energy. When we encounter simple decisions, like what to have for breakfast, our brains can handle it with ease. However, when we step into a situation where we must make complex decisions—like choosing a health insurance plan or selecting a new car—the mental strain can escalate dramatically.

There are several factors that contribute to this complexity:

• Number of Options: More choices can lead to confusion and frustration.
• Quality of Information: Inadequate or overwhelming information can cloud our judgment.
• Personal Relevance: Decisions that hold significant personal stakes can amplify the pressure.

Each of these factors increases the mental burden, making it harder to arrive at a decision. Just think about it: the more options you have, the longer it takes to weigh the pros and cons. It’s like trying to find your favorite song on a playlist of a thousand tracks; the task becomes daunting, and you may end up choosing the first song that plays, rather than the one you genuinely want to hear.

Moreover, the complexity of choices can lead to a phenomenon known as analysis paralysis, where the fear of making the wrong choice prevents any choice from being made at all. This can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with decisions—from what to wear, to what to eat, to more significant life choices—it's no wonder that our brains can feel like they are on overload.

To combat the effects of decision fatigue stemming from complexity, it’s essential to simplify our choices where possible. Here are a few strategies:

• Limit Options: Narrow down choices to a manageable number.
• Set Criteria: Establish clear guidelines for what you want in a decision.
• Take Breaks: Allow yourself time to recharge before tackling significant decisions.

By implementing these strategies, we can ease the mental burden and enhance our decision-making capabilities. Remember, it’s not about making the perfect choice every time; it’s about making informed decisions that align with our values and needs.

Q: What is decision fatigue?
A: Decision fatigue refers to the deteriorating quality of our decisions after a long session of decision-making. It occurs when we become mentally exhausted from the constant need to make choices.

Q: How can I reduce decision fatigue?
A: You can reduce decision fatigue by simplifying your choices, setting specific criteria for decisions, and taking breaks to recharge your mental energy.

Q: Does decision fatigue affect everyone equally?
A: No, individual personality traits, stress levels, and the complexity of choices can influence how severely someone experiences decision fatigue.

Q: Can decision fatigue impact my health?
A: Yes, decision fatigue can lead to impulsive choices, which may negatively affect your health, such as poor diet choices or neglecting exercise.

Effects of Decision Fatigue on Daily Life

Decision fatigue is a sneaky little beast that creeps into our daily lives, often without us even realizing it. Imagine waking up in the morning, energized and ready to tackle the day, but as you make one choice after another—what to wear, what to eat, how to plan your day—your mental energy starts to dwindle. By the time you reach the afternoon, you might find yourself making hasty decisions or simply opting for whatever is easiest. This phenomenon doesn't just affect our personal lives; it spills over into our professional environments, impacting our relationships, productivity, and overall health.

One of the most noticeable effects of decision fatigue is its impact on our relationships. When we are mentally drained, we may become more irritable and less patient with those around us. For instance, after a long day of making decisions at work, you might find yourself snapping at a loved one over a trivial issue, like what to have for dinner. This can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts that could have easily been avoided had you been in a better mental state. In essence, decision fatigue can create a ripple effect, straining our bonds with family and friends, as we become less capable of engaging in meaningful conversations or making thoughtful choices that benefit our relationships.

Moreover, the workplace is not immune to the effects of decision fatigue. In a professional setting, decision fatigue can manifest as decreased productivity and creativity. Employees who are overwhelmed by choices may struggle to focus on their tasks, leading to a decline in the quality of their work. For example, a manager faced with numerous decisions about project directions may find themselves making impulsive choices due to fatigue, potentially derailing the project’s success. This not only affects team morale but can also lead to a lack of job satisfaction, as employees feel their effectiveness is compromised by their diminishing capacity to make sound decisions.

Interestingly, decision fatigue can also have profound implications for our health. When we are mentally exhausted, we often resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as junk food or skipping workouts. The mental load of weighing options can make it difficult to prioritize self-care. Over time, this can contribute to a cycle of poor health choices, which further exacerbates our stress levels and diminishes our overall well-being. It's a classic case of the mind-body connection, where mental fatigue translates into physical health issues.

To wrap it all up, decision fatigue is more than just a fleeting feeling of tiredness; it has serious repercussions on various facets of our lives. From strained relationships and diminished productivity to negative health outcomes, understanding its effects can empower us to take proactive steps to mitigate its impact. By recognizing the signs of decision fatigue, we can adopt healthier decision-making strategies and create a more balanced life.

• What is decision fatigue? Decision fatigue refers to the deteriorating quality of decisions made by an individual after a long session of decision making.
• How can I recognize decision fatigue? Signs include impulsive decisions, increased irritability, and a tendency to avoid making choices altogether.
• What strategies can I use to combat decision fatigue? Simplifying choices, setting routines, and taking regular breaks can help mitigate decision fatigue.
• Can decision fatigue affect my health? Yes, it can lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices, impacting both mental and physical health.

Impact on Relationships

Decision fatigue can have a profound impact on our relationships, often manifesting in ways that are subtle yet significant. Imagine coming home after a long day at work, your brain feeling like it’s been through a marathon of choices—what to wear, what to eat, how to respond to various emails. By the time you sit down with your partner or family, your mental resources are depleted. This exhaustion can lead to impulsive decisions or even withdrawal from meaningful conversations. How many times have you snapped at a loved one over something trivial, only to realize later that you were just too worn out to engage properly?

When decision fatigue sets in, individuals may find themselves making choices that are less thoughtful and more reactive. For instance, you might choose to skip a family dinner because you simply can’t bear to make another decision about what to wear or what to bring. This can create a cycle of negativity, where one impulsive decision leads to another, ultimately straining the bonds that hold relationships together.

Furthermore, decision fatigue can lead to conflicts that might not have occurred if both parties were mentally fresh. When we’re tired, we tend to focus more on our own needs and less on those of others. This shift can create misunderstandings and resentment. For example, if one partner is too fatigued to participate in planning a vacation, the other may feel unappreciated or taken for granted. In this way, decision fatigue doesn’t just affect individual choices; it ripples through the relationship, creating waves of tension.

To illustrate the impact of decision fatigue on relationships, consider the following table that outlines common scenarios and their potential effects:

In many cases, the antidote to decision fatigue in relationships lies in communication and mutual understanding. Partners can benefit from setting aside specific times to discuss decisions when both are feeling mentally fresh. This could mean having a dedicated 'decision-making' night, where both parties come prepared to discuss plans without the weight of fatigue hanging over them. By being proactive about decisions, couples can preserve their emotional energy for more meaningful interactions.

Ultimately, recognizing the signs of decision fatigue and its impact on relationships is the first step toward fostering healthier connections. By prioritizing mental well-being and open communication, couples can navigate the choppy waters of decision fatigue together, ensuring that their relationships remain strong and resilient.

• What is decision fatigue? Decision fatigue is the mental exhaustion that occurs after making numerous decisions, leading to poorer decision-making over time.
• How can I reduce decision fatigue in my daily life? Simplifying choices, setting routines, and prioritizing important decisions can help manage decision fatigue.
• Can decision fatigue affect my work performance? Yes, it can lead to decreased productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction.

Workplace Implications

Decision fatigue is not just a personal hurdle; it can ripple through the workplace, affecting everything from productivity to team dynamics. Imagine starting your workday with a full tank of energy, ready to tackle projects and make decisions. But as the hours tick by, that energy diminishes, leading to a state of mental exhaustion that can impact the quality of your work and interactions. When employees face decision fatigue, they often resort to making impulsive choices or, worse, avoiding decisions altogether. This can create a bottleneck effect, where important tasks are delayed, and productivity plummets.

Moreover, decision fatigue can lead to a decline in creativity. When your brain is overloaded with choices, it struggles to think outside the box. In a workplace that thrives on innovation, this can be particularly damaging. Teams may find themselves stuck in a cycle of routine decisions, missing out on opportunities for growth and improvement. The irony is that while the workplace demands quick and effective decision-making, the very act of making too many decisions can lead to a paralysis of thought.

To illustrate the impact of decision fatigue in the workplace, consider the following table:

In addition to these issues, decision fatigue can also affect leadership. Leaders are often required to make numerous decisions daily, from strategic planning to personnel management. When they experience decision fatigue, their judgment may falter, leading to poor choices that can have long-term repercussions for the organization. It becomes a vicious cycle: leaders who are fatigued make less effective decisions, which then increases the pressure on their teams, ultimately leading to more fatigue.

Addressing decision fatigue in the workplace requires a multifaceted approach. Organizations can implement strategies such as delegating decisions, allowing employees to focus on fewer, more impactful choices. Additionally, creating a structured decision-making process can help streamline choices and reduce the cognitive load on employees. Regular breaks and a supportive work culture that encourages open communication can also mitigate the effects of decision fatigue, fostering an environment where employees feel empowered to make decisions without the fear of burnout.

• What is decision fatigue? Decision fatigue refers to the deteriorating quality of decisions made by an individual after a long session of decision-making.
• How can decision fatigue affect my job performance? It can lead to reduced productivity, lower creativity, and increased conflict within teams.
• What are some strategies to combat decision fatigue? Strategies include delegating decisions, structuring decision-making processes, and taking regular breaks to refresh your mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is decision fatigue?

  Decision fatigue refers to the mental exhaustion that arises from making too many decisions in a short period. Just like how your muscles tire after a workout, your brain can also become fatigued from the constant strain of weighing options and making choices.

• What causes decision fatigue?

  Several factors contribute to decision fatigue, including the complexity of choices, stress levels, and individual personality traits. When faced with numerous decisions, our mental resources can become depleted, leading to poor choices or avoidance of decision-making altogether.

• How does stress affect decision fatigue?

  Stress plays a significant role in decision fatigue. High stress levels can reduce our cognitive resources, making it more challenging to think clearly and make sound decisions. It's like trying to run a marathon while carrying a heavy backpack; the added weight slows you down and drains your energy.

• What are the effects of decision fatigue on daily life?

  Decision fatigue can have a profound impact on various aspects of life. It can lead to impulsive choices that strain relationships, hinder productivity at work, and even affect overall health. For example, after a long day of decisions, you might opt for fast food instead of cooking a healthy meal.

• How can I manage decision fatigue?

  There are several strategies to mitigate decision fatigue, such as simplifying choices, establishing routines, and prioritizing tasks. By reducing the number of decisions you need to make, you can preserve your mental energy for more important choices.

• Is decision fatigue different for everyone?

  Yes, decision fatigue can vary from person to person. Individual personality traits, stress tolerance, and coping mechanisms all play a role in how someone experiences decision fatigue. Some people may feel overwhelmed more quickly, while others may thrive under pressure.

• Can decision fatigue be prevented?

  While it may not be possible to eliminate decision fatigue entirely, you can take proactive steps to minimize its effects. Techniques such as time management, prioritizing important decisions, and practicing mindfulness can help keep your mental resources in check.