Why You Won't Stick With It

Go on ‘stick with it’ they say.

Good advice? Well actually… no.

Sticking with something can become counterproductive after a while. And it’s sooner than you think.

In fact, clever boffins have worked out something called ‘Optimal Stopping Theory’…

Which basically means the amount of time you’ll stick with something before you stop—make a decision—or quit.

Think about it:

When shopping for a new top, you won’t look at every item in the store. You’ll try so many then decide.

If you’re looking for love, you won’t want to date every available person.

If you move to a new area, you probably won’t eat in every restaurant before deciding on your favourite.

And here’s the spooky part: The answer to all of the above is exactly the same.

37%

Yes, if there are 22 tops to try, you’ll make your mind up after picking 8.

If you’re up for dating 40 people, you’ll meet the love of your life after 15.

And if there are 16 restaurants in your new town, you’ll find your absolute favourite after munching in just 6.

So, don’t beat yourself up if you’ve thrown in the towel after 37 of a possible 100 attempts.

You’re not a quitter - it’s maths.

Be Brilliant!

Michael

PS If you have a wife like mine you’ve every right to refute the only ‘8 out of 22 tops’ statistic. I empathise with you that given a choice of 22 she’ll still manage to try on 36!

PPS I’d love to hear your thoughts on ‘Optimal Stopping Theory’.