Making Decisions When You’re Not in a Calm State of Mind: The Neuroscience Behind It
We’ve all been there - facing a decision when emotions are running high, and our minds feel like a whirlwind. Stress, anxiety, frustration, and anger can cloud our judgment, making it harder to think clearly. In these moments, we might make choices we later regret.
But what is happening in our brains during these high-stress moments? Let’s take a look at some neuroscience to understand why making decisions when we’re not calm can be so tricky.
The Science Behind Stress and Decision-Making
When we’re stressed or emotionally overwhelmed, the brain’s “fight-or-flight” response kicks in. This response originates from the amygdala, a part of the brain responsible for processing emotions, especially fear and threat. When the amygdala is activated, it sends signals that flood the body with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, putting us in a heightened state of alert.
In this state, the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for reasoning, decision-making, and impulse control, becomes less active. This means that when we’re stressed, our ability to think clearly, weigh consequences, and make rational decisions is impaired. Instead, our brain focuses on survival and reacting quickly, often without the careful thought we would typically apply.
Pause and Reflect: The Power of Shifting Focus
Given this, it’s clear why it’s so difficult to make good decisions when emotions are running high. The key is to pause and reflect before acting. Taking a moment to step away from the situation allows the amygdala’s heightened activation to calm down and lets the prefrontal cortex regain control.
By taking a deep breath or walking away for even a few minutes, you’re giving your brain the opportunity to return to a state where it can process information more clearly and rationally. This pause helps you move from a reactive state to a more thoughtful, reflective one.
Give Yourself Time: The Benefits of Delayed Decision-Making
It’s easy to feel pressured to make decisions quickly, but not every choice needs to be made immediately. Research shows that giving yourself time to calm down can lead to better decision-making. When we delay decisions and allow the prefrontal cortex to take over, we can better weigh pros and cons, anticipate consequences, and make choices that are more aligned with our long-term well-being.
Embrace Mindfulness: Rewiring Your Brain for Better Decisions
Practicing mindfulness can be a powerful tool for enhancing decision-making, especially when emotions are running high. Mindfulness helps quiet the mind and bring the body into the present moment, reducing the over-activation of the amygdala and allowing the prefrontal cortex to function more effectively. Regular mindfulness practices, whether it’s through deep breathing, meditation, or simply taking a few moments of quiet reflection, can help rewire the brain to better handle stress and make more balanced decisions.
Remember: It’s Okay to Wait
In moments of heightened stress, it’s important to remember that not every decision needs to be made immediately. Taking a break allows the brain’s emotional centres to settle and gives you the time you need to regain a clear, calm perspective. By practicing patience, you’re not only helping your mind make better decisions, but you’re also enhancing your emotional resilience over time.
The next time you find yourself facing a decision under stress, remember: pause, reflect, and embrace a clearer state of mind. Your brain and your future self will thank you.