Pause to Propel Better Decisions

Slowing down in decision-making is challenging, as people tend to prioritize action over reflection due to an inherent action bias. Despite the resistance to pause, research indicates that taking time to think can significantly enhance decision quality, particularly in situations that affect others. For instance, a mere three-second pause before responding in educational settings has been shown to increase student reflection and critical thinking, demonstrating that even brief moments of hesitation can foster deeper engagement and better outcomes.