Have you ever made a bad decision when you’ve been stressed?
Here’s the science behind it and what to do — so you can improve your decision-making and critical thinking.
The Science
Acute stress triggers the release of cortisol and while cortisol helps you respond to immediate threats, an excessive amount can hamper areas of your brain you rely on for executive function, decision-making, and emotional regulation.
This interference can distort your perception of risk, impair your ability to weigh pros and cons, and make you more susceptible to biases. It can make you irrational and impulsive, robbing you of long-term thinking and the appreciation of consequences.
What To Do Next Time
Recognise your stress signals
By understanding your body’s response to stress (e.g., increased heart rate, or reactivity), you can identify when you’re in its grip and then take steps to alleviate it.
Take a break
If possible, avoid making decisions when you’re stressed. A short break can help you reset and get a clearer perspective. Getting outside or going for a short walk can help you regain cognitive composure.
(You might find the HALT acronym useful: if you’re feeling Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired, it’s best to pause before making an important decision.)
Breathing exercises
If you feel stressed, focusing on and slowing your breath can have a profound effect. It helps lower your cortisol levels and return your body to a calmer state, paving the way for better decision-making.
The real key lies in mastering your nervous system – learning how to regulate your physiology, master your emotions, and shift your mental state.
These skills take time to develop – but they can be life-changing.
