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12 Best Decision Making Books To Read

By: Angela Robinson | Updated: January 04, 2022

You found our list of top decision making books .

Decision making books are guides that help readers make smarter choices more quickly. These references cover subjects like decision paralysis, bias, and risk-taking. The purpose of these works is to improve decision making skills and help professionals feel more confident in their choices.

These books are a subset of leadership books and management books and are similar to problem solving books, conflict resolution books , and books on business strategy .

This article includes:

• managerial decision making books
• business decision making books
• strategic decision making books
• books on decision making psychology

Here we go!

List of decision making books

Here is a list of books to improve decision making skills in the workplace and in life.

1. Decisive: How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work by Chip Heath

Decisive provides a practical toolkit for making worthwhile choices. The book identifies prejudices and incorrect beliefs that often prevent good judgment, and lays down a framework for overcoming these influences and making better choices. The pages are full of simple strategies and tips for narrowing down choices, challenging impulses, considering different perspectives, and achieving the desired results. The book draws on anecdotes and academic research to back up the theories and is equal parts informative and entertaining. Decisive gives advice on a wide range of topics, from group-decision making to ending the endless cycling of “what-if” thinking.

Notable Quote: “Success emerges from the quality of the decisions we make and the quantity of luck we receive. We can’t control luck. But we can control the way we make choices.”

Read Decisive .

2. Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don’t Have All the Facts by Annie Duke

Thinking in Bets is one of the most helpful managerial decision making books. Often in business, leaders have to make tough calls with incomplete information. Operating on the philosophy that “even the best decision doesn’t yield the best outcome every time,” this book teaches readers how to take calculated risks by performing quick calculations and taking short personal inventories. Former World Series of Poker champion Annie Duke shows readers how to gamble smartly by weighing the odds before calling the shots. The pages present several case studies that show the thinking processes of successful risk takers along with strategies for making bets that pay off. Thinking in Bets lays down a mindset for filling in information gaps and making bold calls with confidence.

Notable Quote: “What makes a decision great is not that it has a great outcome. A great decision is the result of a good process, and that process must include an attempt to accurately represent our own state of knowledge. That state of knowledge, in turn, is some variation of “I’m not sure.”

Read Thinking in Bets .

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3. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Thinking, Fast and Slow is one of the best decision making books of all time. In this work, psychologist and Nobel Prize winner Daniel Kahneman explores the two main systems of thinking that guide human judgement: the quick emotional response and the slower, more logical process. Kahneman outlines the nuances and appropriate uses for each system and shows how these ways of thinking influence outcomes. The book offers tools for overcoming bias, regulating emotions, making accurate projections, and allotting the proper amount of time to the decision-making process. Thinking, Fast and Slow is an in-depth exploration into the human mind that reveals how and why we make choices, and gives advice how to make decisions that better serve us.

Notable Quote: “Intelligence is not only the ability to reason; it is also the ability to find relevant material in memory and to deploy attention when needed.”

Read Thinking, Fast and Slow .

4. The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less by Barry Schwartz

The Paradox of Choice explores the effects of having plentiful options. The book explains that while some choices can lead to better quality of life, having too many choices decreases happiness, increases anxiety, and often leads to decision-making fatigue and decision paralysis. Barry Schwartz aims to find the tipping point that defines “too many choices,” and outlines strategies for readers to limit choices, focus on priorities, banish doubt and the fear of missing out, and be more confident in decisions. The Paradox of Choice preaches the notion that decision making is not always about seeking better, and knowing when to settle and be satisfied is an important part of the process.

Notable Quote: “Unfortunately, the proliferation of choice in our lives robs us of the opportunity to decide for ourselves just how important any given decision is.”

Read The Paradox of Choice .

5. Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness by Richard H. Thaler  and Cass R. Sunstein

Nudge revolves around the influence of outside factors on the decision-making process. The book asserts that no choice exists in a completely neutral context, and  preconceived ideas can drive the decision unconsciously. The guide aims to make readers more aware of the “choice architecture” that guides decision making and to help individuals choose options that lead to better personal outcomes. The authors are a Nobel Prize winner and Havard professor respectively, and back up these ideas with research and data. Nudge sheds light on the unconscious side of decision making and helps readers to make more proactive and objective choices.

Notable Quote: “The combination of loss aversion with mindless choosing implies that if an option is designated as the “default,” it will attract a large market share. Default options thus act as powerful nudges.”

Read Nudge .

6. HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Making Smart Decisions by Harvard Business Review

HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Making Smart Decisions is one of the best business decision making books. This anthology draws on past publications from Harvard Business Review to break down the science of making savvy business decisions. Essays include “The Hidden Traps in Decision Making,” “Conquering a Culture of Indecision,” and “Why Good Leaders Make Bad Decisions.” The book covers the full range of the topic and gives advice on making choices and gaining buy-in and backing in a variety of situations. The guide provides an overview of the subject and provides a solid foundation for improving decision making skills in the workplaces, especially as a manager or leader.

Notable Quote: “Bad decisions can often be traced back to the way the decisions were made– the alternatives were not clearly defined, the right information was not collected, the costs and benefits were not accurately weighed. But sometimes the fault lies not in the decision-making process but rather in the mind of the decision maker.”

Read HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Making Smart Decisions .

7. “Yes” or “No”: The Guide to Better Decisions by Spencer Johnson

“Yes” or “No” presents a system for decision making. The book helps readers separate emotional arguments from logical arguments and come to conclusions that satisfy both sides. Through the use of simple questions, this framework helps individuals avoid overcomplicating elements and distractions and identify choices that align with belief systems, personal benefits, and priorities. Spencer Johnson’s typical writing style involves dispersing advice while telling a central story, and this book is no different. “Yes” or “No” is a short read that offers decision makers clarity and direction when faced with choices.

Notable Quote: “​​To make a better decision I first stop proceeding with a poor decision.”

Read “Yes” or “No” and check out more of Johnson’s work on this list of change management books .

8. Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment by Daniel Kahneman, Olivier Sibony, and Cass R. Sunstein

Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment explores how the environment can affect judgment. The authors assert that given the same choice, an individual may make completely different calls based on surrounding conditions. The book defines “noise” and differentiates the concept from bias, and makes the case for being more aware of noise’s influence to more standard and predictable decisions. Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment is a study of subjectivity and a rallying call to improve current decision making systems.

Notable Quote: “To understand error in judgment, we must understand both bias and noise.”

Read Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment .

9. Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths

Algorithms to Live By is a book that insists that the same principles that guide computer algorithms can be applied to the human decision making process. In the same way one can program a computer, one can reprogram the mind to be more efficient in making choices. The book addresses topics such as the right time to stop gathering information, sorting and organizing data, prioritizing, and making predictions. This formulaic approach can help readers separate the action from the emotion and see decision making as a set of steps and maneuvers to try. The book advocates for an experimental and scientific approach to decision that prevents overthinking, and points out the lessons that can be learned from machines.

Notable Quote: “To try and fail is at least to learn; to fail to try is to suffer the inestimable loss of what might have been.”

Read Algorithms to Live By .

10. The Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli

The Art of Thinking Clearly is an exploration of errors in reasoning and ways to avoid faulty logic. The book explores the full range of potential biases so that readers can more easily identify these blindspots. The text also lays out a series of guidelines to combat these biases, such as beware the “special case,” as well as explanations for where these ideas come from, like “why you systematically overestimate your knowledge and abilities.” The book functions as a sort of field guide for misconceptions and fallacies and helps readers make more sound, informed, reality-based decisions. The Art of Thinking Clearly is overcoming off-base instincts and more accurately assessing situations.

Notable Quote: “The human brain seeks patterns and rules. In fact, it takes it one step further: If it finds no familiar patterns, it simply invents some.”

Read The Art of Thinking Clearly .

11. Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions by Dr. Dan Ariely

Predictably Irrational is one of the most interesting books on decision making psychology. The bestseller explores the reason behind questionable judgement and shows that these irrational decisions are formulaic and foreseeable. Dan Ariely proves his points through references to MIT behavioral science experiments. The research shows that human beings are not as in control of their actions as they think or claim and that ridiculous decisions are not as random or unexpected as may first appear. By exploring the elements behind these lapses in good judgement, Ariely challenges readers to be more mindful and accountable and make choices that are based more on outcome than emotion. Predictably Irrational gives explanation to seemingly inexplicable choices and provides a deeper understanding into the reality of human decision making psychology.

Notable Quote: “Humans rarely choose things in absolute terms. We don’t have an internal value meter that tells us how much things are worth. Rather, we focus on the relative advantage of one thing over another, and estimate value accordingly.”

Read Predictably Irrational .

12. Superforecasting: The Art and Science of Prediction by Philip E. Tetlock and Dan Gardner

Superforecasting is one of the best strategic decision making books. This work draws heavily on the findings from The Good Judgment project, an experiment that monitored the predictions of thousands of everyday people over the course of many years. Sharing observations and stories from the study as well as case studies from modern history, the authors reveal valuable insights and pinpoint the qualities that help individuals make accurate predictions. The book uses these examples to give advice on foreseeing the future by relying on data from multiple sources, employing teamwork, and being willing to own up to mistakes and change direction.

Notable Quote: “Quit pretending you know things you don’t and start running experiments.”

Read Superforecasting .

Final Thoughts

The modern world offers more choices than perhaps at any other time in human civilization. Yet despite the regularity and abundance of options, many professionals struggle with the decision making process. Individuals and organizations alike are prone to overthinking, being blinded by bias, or second guessing the final solution.

Books on decision making can give professionals the skills and mindsets needed to see dilemmas more clearly, weigh the options, and make the most promising and fitting choices. Decision-making is an essential quality in a fast-paced and ever-changing world, and these guides can help folks feel less overwhelmed when faced with a dilemma and feel more confident in their calls. By nature, humans are prone to irrational beliefs and behavior. These books encourage individuals to challenge those instincts and expectations and make critical decisions in a responsible manner.

Next, check out this list of books on focus and this list of habit-building books .

We also have a list of the best books on communication and list of problem solving books .

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FAQ: Decision making books

Here are answers to common questions about decision making books. 

What are decision making books?

Decision making books are guides that explore the psychology of making choices. These guides provide frameworks for weighing options and arriving at an optimal choice. Focuses of these books might include forecasting, bias, information-gathering, and the process of elimination.

What are some good decision making books for work? 

Some good decision making books for work include Decisive by Chip Heath, Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman, and The Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli.

What are the best business decision making books?

The best business decision making books include Superforecasting by Philip E. Tetlock and Dan Gardner, Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke, and HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Making Smart Decisions by Harvard Business Review.

Author: Angela Robinson

Marketing Coordinator at teambuilding.com. Angela has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and worked as a community manager with Yelp to plan events for businesses.

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Marketing Coordinator at teambuilding.com.

Angela has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and worked as a community manager with Yelp to plan events for businesses.

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Farnam Street

Mastering the best of what other people have already figured out

40 Books that Improve your Ability to Make Decisions

Who can you ask for book recommendations on decision making? At Re:Think Decision Making, I asked a crowd that one former ivy league professor called “the best public crowd he’s ever seen” what they would recommend reading. These people are paid to make decisions for a living and want to find every edge they can.

So when I asked them what books on decision making influenced them, you can bet they had a lot to say.

Here’s the list in no particular order:

1. Decisive: How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work

By: Chip & Dan Heath

Research has shown time and time again how irrational humans are in our thinking. We’re overconfident. We seek out information that supports us and downplay information that doesn’t. We get distracted by short-term emotions. When it comes to making choices, it seems, our brains are flawed instruments. Unfortunately, merely being aware of these shortcomings doesn’t fix the problem, any more than knowing that we are nearsighted helps us to see. Well researched and well written, this book offers a 4 step process to help overcome our natural biases and make better decisions. On a side, if you’ve read Switch or Made to Stick you know how fun and easy a Heath brothers book is to read. This one is no different.

2. How to Measure Anything

By: Douglas Hubbard

Peter Drucker famously said, “What gets measured, gets managed.” But how do you measure things as nebulous as customer satisfaction, organizational flexibility or the ROI of technology? Written by recognized expert Douglas Hubbard—creator of Applied Information Economics— How to Measure Anything illustrates how the author has used his approach across various industries and how any problem, no matter how difficult, ill defined, or uncertain can lend itself to measurement (and therefore improvement) using proven methods.

3. How to Make Sense of Any Mess: Information Architecture for Everybody

By: Abby Covert

According to the author, every “mess” has a similar structure. Whether we’re dealing with a crisis at work or at home, find ourselves in a muck with other people, or are trying to make sense of the deluge of information all around us, this book offers a 7 step process for making sense of it all. No mess is too big once you know how to properly tackle one.

4. Wiser: Getting Beyond Groupthink to Make Groups Smarter

By: Cass Sunstein & Reid Hastie

If you work with groups of people in any way, this is a great read with lots of useful nuggets. We tend to assume that a group of bright minds working together to solve a problem would yield the best outcome, but research has shown that isn’t always the case. In fact, we tend to sabotage our own results by giving the most weight to the positions stated first, shared the loudest, or held in common with the rest of the group. In Wiser, you’ll not only learn how to avoid the pitfalls that plague so many meetings today, but how to get the best out of those participating, so your collective decision making becomes more effective, more productive, and a better investment of time.

5. The Surprising Power of Liberating Structures: Simple Rules to Unleash A Culture of Innovation

By: Henri Lipmanowicz & Keith McCandless

Whether you are a teacher, a manager, a parent, or a leader in any way, you know how frustrating it can be when the individuals you’re trying to lead aren’t fully engaged. It’s bad for the organization, it’s bad for productivity, and quite frankly, it’s bad for the individual. The Surprising Power of Liberating Structures explores practical methods to help people get engaged and invested in what they’re doing — and feel personal satisfaction from doing it.

6. Gamestorming: A Playbook for Innovators, Rulebreakers, and Changemakers

By: Dave Gray, Sunni Brown & James Macanufo

If your work environment isn’t one where employees feel safe to share their ideas and interact freely with one another, you can’t expect to accomplish anything significant. You’ll always be chugging along at less than full capacity. That’s where this book comes in. It provides over 80 games that are specifically designed to break down barriers, foster communication, and get the creative juices flowing.

7. The Righteous Mind: Why Good People are Divided by Politics and Religion

By: Jonathan Haidt

Think you’re absolutely right on the hot political, social or religious debate of the day? Before you get into it with your brother-in-law over Thanksgiving dinner, make sure you read this book. Jonathan Haidt does a masterful job of showing that the other side isn’t as crazy as we think, and in fact, we’re all a bit more crazy than we’d like to admit. He draws on decades of research to show that what we consider to be moral judgments are not formed by sound reasoning, but by intuition. Understanding why and how that happens is critical to understanding each other. And a necessary part of having an opinion.

8. Yes or No: The Guide to Better Decisions

By: Spencer Johnson

Who Moved My Cheese? gets a lot of love, but Spencer Johnson’s book on decision making deserves way more attention than it gets. In my opinion, it’s his best book. And it’s short, practical and easy to apply. You could read this over your lunch break and be a better thinker before you even finish your sandwich.

9. The Little Book of Talent

By: Daniel Coyle

This is a great companion piece to the Talent Code by the same author, but definitely stands on its own. Where that book is more about the science and research behind developing talent, The Little Book of Talent gives you the “how to” with over 50 specific exercises you can start using today to improve whatever skill you’re working on — whether it’s art, music, sports, or cooking eggs. This book will help you get better, faster.

10. The Worry Solution: Using Breakthrough Brain Science to Turn Stress and Anxiety into Confidence and Happiness

By: Martin Rossman

Seneca once said, “He who suffers before it is necessary suffers more than is necessary.” Often, that unnecessary suffering comes from excessive worrying. I get it, there’s plenty to worry about today — kids, finances, your career, relationships — the list is endless. This book offers practical and actionable steps to get worry under control, so it stops adding unnecessary stress and anxiety to your life.

11. Shantaram: A Novel

By: Gregory David Roberts

One of the only novels on the list, Shantaram is less of a book on how to make decisions, but rather a fascinating case study on how the direction of our life is inextricably tied to the decisions we make. At nearly 1000 pages, this is not an afternoon read, but it is a thrilling ride that doesn’t slow down once it starts rolling. From the inside cover: Shantaram is narrated by Lin, an escaped convict with a false passport who flees maximum security prison in Australia for the teeming streets of a city where he can disappear. Burning slums and five-star hotels, romantic love and prison agonies, criminal wars and Bollywood films, spiritual gurus and mujahideen guerrillas—this huge novel has the world of human experience in its reach, and a passionate love for India at its heart. Based on the life of the author, it is by any measure the debut of an extraordinary voice in literature.

12. The Art of Living

By: Epictetus

One of the most influential Stoic thinkers, Epictetus was born into slavery about 55 ce in the eastern outreaches of the Roman Empire. Once freed, he established a school of Stoic philosophy, stressing that human beings cannot control life, only their responses to it. By putting into practice the ninety-three witty, wise, and razor-sharp instructions that make up The Art of Living, you’ll learn to meet the challenges of everyday life successfully and to face life’s inevitable losses and disappointments with grace.

13. The Education of a Value Investor

By: Guy Spier

This book packs a lot into its pages. It’s both a priceless education in value investing, and a riveting story of personal transformation. Among other valuable lessons, you’ll discover how a $600,000+ lunch with Warren Buffet turned out to be one of the best (and high yielding) investments author Guy Spier ever made.

14. Devil Take the Hindmost: a History of Financial Speculation

By: Edward Chancellor

Before you drop a dime into that hot tech stock your co-worker is raving about, pick up this book. The author takes a hard look at both the psychological and economic forces that drive people to “bet” their money in markets; how markets are made, unmade, manipulated; and who wins when speculation runs rampant.

15. Click: The Art and Science of Getting from Impasse to Insight

By: Eve Grodnitzky

Wouldn’t it be nice if we could be inspired on demand? Get a fresh jolt of energy, insights and creativity when we’ve hit the wall? According to author Eve Grodnitsky, we can. In Click, she provides a 7 step methodology to take someone from “impasse to insight.” Drawing on the latest research and her own analysis of hundreds of real-life insight stories, Dr. Grodnitzky explains how insight actually works and how to have more of these eureka moments at work and in life.

16. The Dictator’s Handbook: Why Bad Behavior is Almost Always Good Politics

By: Bruce Bueno de Mesquita

The authors of this book make a bold claim: leaders do whatever keeps them in power, regardless of the national interest. And while there are clear differences between a liberal democracy and a dictatorship, the common thread through both is the same — scratch the right backs, and keep the people in the dark. This is an entertaining, yet at times unsettling, manual for gaining and preserving power — akin to Machiavelli’s The Prince.

17. The Back of the Napkin & How to Solve Problems and Sell Ideas

By: Dan Roan

Have you ever had a hard time expressing a complex idea to someone? In this book, author Dan Roan suggests using fewer words and more pictures. He shows how a few simple drawings done the right way can clarify any problem or sell any idea to your audience — whether that’s one person or a full auditorium.

18. Crossing to Safety

By: Wallace Stegner

One of only three novels on the list. From the inside flap: Called a “magnificently crafted story . . . brimming with wisdom” by Howard Frank Mosher in The Washington Post Book World, Crossing to Safety has, since its publication in 1987, established itself as one of the greatest and most cherished American novels of the twentieth century. Tracing the lives, loves, and aspirations of two couples who move between Vermont and Wisconsin, it is a work of quiet majesty, deep compassion, and powerful insight into the alchemy of friendship and marriage.

19. Paradox of Choice: Why More is Less

By: Barry Schwartz

No matter what you’re in the market for, you have options. Lots of them. Where to invest your money, how to order your coffee, what to wear, and don’t even get me started on the menu at the Cheesecake Factory. In Paradox of Choice, Schwartz makes the counter intuitive case that too many options can actually be a bad thing — and eliminating choices can reduce the stress, anxiety, and busyness of our lives. He offers 11 practical steps to limit choices to a manageable number, have the discipline to focus on the ones that are important, and derive greater satisfaction from the choices you have to make.

20. Streetlights and Shadows: Searching for the Keys to Adaptive Decision Making

By: Gary Klein

When making an important decision, should you go with your gut or lean more on logic and statistics? The answer may not be as clear cut as you’d expect, and each situation requires its own approach. In Streetlights and Shadows, Gary Klein debunks the conventional wisdom about how to make decisions. He takes ten commonly accepted claims about decision making and shows that they are better suited for the laboratory than for life — and what we should do instead.

21. The Social Animal

By: David Brooks

The Social Animal weaves the narrative of a fictional American couple (from birth to old age) with the most recent research on social and cognitive science to illustrate how we develop during different stages of our lives. Brooks paints a new and refreshing view of humanity and what it really means to be successful.

22. The Laws of Simplicity

By: John Maeda

In this short but engaging read, graphic designer and computer scientist Maeda proposes ten laws for simplifying complex systems in business and life (but mostly focuses on product design.) Maeda’s upbeat explanations break down the power of less — fewer features, fewer buttons and fewer distractions — while providing practical strategies for harnessing that power.

23. Nudge: Improving Decisions about Health, Wealth and Happiness

By: Richard H. Thaler

By now, it shouldn’t surprise you to learn that humans are inherently bad at making decisions. And only through understanding and being aware of our biases can we ever hope to get better at it. This is a well written and easy to read book, written by Richard Thaler (who happens to be a Nobel Prize winner.) If you want to improve your own decision making, and also learn how to “nudge” those you care about towards making better choices as well, grab this book.

24. Reminiscences of a Stock Operator

By: Edwin Lefevre & Roger Lowenstein

First published in 1923, Reminiscences of a Stock Operator is perhaps the most widely read, highly recommended investment book ever. And after nearly 100 years on the shelves, it’s just as relevant today as it was when it was first written. Generations of readers have found that it has more to teach them about markets and people than years of hands-on experience.

25. This Will Make You Smarter

By: John Brockman

“What scientific concept would improve everybody’s cognitive toolkit?” This is the question John Brockman posed to the world’s most influential thinkers. This book is a collection of their answers. Daniel Kahneman, Nassim Nicholas Taleb, Richard Dawkins, Brian Eno, Steven Pinker, Lisa Randall — the list goes on and on. You’ll definitely pick up something new and immediately useful in this book.

26. A More Beautiful Question: The Power of Inquiry to Spark Breakthrough Ideas

By: Warren Berger

In A More Beautiful Question , Warren Berger makes the compelling argument that our outcomes are directly tied to the quality of questions we’re willing to ask. By showing how to approach questioning with an open, curious mind and a willingness to work through a series of “Why,” “What if,” and “How” queries, Berger offers an inspiring framework of how we can all arrive at better solutions, fresh possibilities, and greater success in business and life. Pairs nicely with this podcast interview. ;)

27. Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice

By: Bill Browden

I’ve talked about this book before and it remains high on my personal recommendation list. It’s hard to believe this story recounts actual events — it reads just like a fictional crime thriller and was difficult for me to put down. If you’re into conspiracies, crime, and politics — run for office. Just kidding, get this book.

28. The Man who Mistook his Wife for a Hat

By: Oliver Sacks

This book is a collection of some of the most bizarre, fascinating, and at times heartbreaking stories of people afflicted with a variety of neurological disorders. We learn about patients who are no longer able to recognize people and common objects; who are stricken with violent tics and grimaces or who shout involuntary obscenities; whose limbs have become alien; and who have been dismissed as retarded yet are gifted with uncanny artistic or mathematical talents.

29. Imprudent King: A New Life of Philip II

By: Geoffrey Parker

Philip II is not only the most famous king in Spanish history, but one of the most famous monarchs in English history: the man who married Mary Tudor and later launched the Spanish Armada against her sister Elizabeth I. This book examines Philip’s long apprenticeship; his three principal interests (work, play, and religion); and the major political, military, and personal challenges he faced during his long reign. Parker offers fresh insights into the causes of Philip’s leadership failures: was his empire simply too big to manage, or would a monarch with different talents and temperament have fared better?

30. Seeking Wisdom

By: Peter Bevelin

Inspired by the wisdom of Charlie Munger, Seeking Wisdom is a compendium of the big ideas that shape the way we see and interact with the world. This book is one of my personal favorites and has had a massive impact on how I think and view reality. (Get it.)

31. Mastery

By: Robert Greene

Robert Greene insists that we all have it within us to be masters. And in Mastery , he provides the formula. The same formula that was used by great historical figures such as Charles Darwin, Mozart, Paul Graham and Henry Ford.

32. Synchronicity: The Innes Path of Leadership

By: Joseph Jaworski

“Synchronicity” is the term used to describe the feeling that everything in life — the ups, the downs, the disasters and the triumphs, seem to work together for your good. Author Joseph Jaworski argues that the right state of mind will make you the kind of person who can enlist the cooperation of fate and take advantage of synchronicity, creating the conditions for “predictable miracles.”

33. The Culture Map: Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business

By: Erin Meyer

Americans precede anything negative with three nice comments; French, Dutch, Israelis, and Germans get straight to the point; Latin Americans and Asians are steeped in hierarchy; Scandinavians think the best boss is just one of the crowd. It’s no surprise that when they try and talk to each other, chaos breaks out. This is the book to help you navigate those tricky and potentially awkward misunderstandings.

34. Ubiquity: Why Catastrophes Happen

By: Mark Buchanan

Critically acclaimed science journalist, Mark Buchanan tells the fascinating story of the discovery that there is a natural structure of instability woven into the fabric of our world, which explains why catastrophes — both natural and human — happen.

35. Family Fortunes

By: Bill Bonner

In Family Fortunes, father-and-son team Bill and Will Bonner present a radical new way to look at family money along with the practical advice you need to build — and maintain — multi-generational wealth. Filled with invaluable advice for making money and keeping it in the family, the book illustrates why family money is the most dynamic, forward-looking capital in the world, and how your family can cash in on it for generations to come.

36. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion

By: Robert Cialdini

Considered by many to be the Bible of persuasion, Dr. Cialdini’s Influence was one of the first books to explore the irrationality of human decision making and helped put the field of behavioral economics on the map. Through dozens of fascinating real life studies, you’ll learn the six universal principles, how to use them to become a skilled persuader—and how to defend yourself against them.

37. Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder

By: Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Fragile systems break under stress, robust systems resist it, and antifragile systems benefit from it. That’s the premise of Taleb’s groundbreaking work, Antifragile. That we should not only prepare for risk, uncertainty and chaos, but invite it, is a revolutionary idea, but Taleb makes a strong case. Throughout the book, he explores the state of politics, urban planning, finances, economics and medicine to illustrate the necessity of building antifragile systems if we want to thrive in this world.

38. Poor Charlie’s Almanack: The Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munger

By: Peter D. Kaufman & Charlie T. Munger

Pound for pound, one of the most important books I’ve ever read, and one that has had a profound impact on my thinking. It should be no surprise to readers of FS that Charlie Munger and Warren Buffet are the two people who have influenced me the most, and this book is a collection of much of the wisdom that attracted me to their philosophies on life, investing, and how I look at the world. And yes, while the book is a little pricier than most, if it were 20x the price, it would still be an amazing value.

39. The Brain that Changes Itself

By: Norman Doidge

For centuries it was thought that the brain stopped developing after a period of time, and that it was a very rigid process. In this book, Norman Doidge explores what scientists call “neuroplasticity” and how nearly everything we once believed about the brain is wrong. The brain is fluid, constantly remapping and rewiring to make its job more efficient. Dr. Doidge shares powerful stories of people who relearn to speak after a stroke, overcome debilitating vertigo, even a blind man who learns to “see.” As it turns out, you can teach an old dog new tricks.

40. The Great Mental Models, Volume 1: General Thinking Concepts

A thorough understanding of these 9 models will, without a doubt, improve the way you approach problems, consider opportunities, and make difficult decisions.

And there you have it — a list of books on decision making that should give you a great starting point. Let us know if there was a book we missed that needs to be on the list!

Ultimate Blocks

9 best books on decision making to make better decisions.

Kazi Ayesha Rahman

Imagine you’re standing at an ice cream parlor, staring at a menu bursting with exotic flavors. As the line grows longer, you can feel the impatient customers behind you. You’re torn between two options: the classic vanilla, a safe and familiar choice, or the dragon fruit sorbet, an intriguing risk. 

Your mind races with questions: What if the sorbet is too tangy? Will the vanilla be too bland? In this seemingly simple scenario, you’re faced with a decision – a choice that mirrors the countless decisions we make daily.

From selecting an ice cream flavor to choosing a career path or navigating complex life choices, decision-making is a constant companion on our journey through life. But here’s the catch: how often do we truly pause and reflect on our decision-making processes? How often do we consider whether our choices are well-informed, rational, and aligned with our goals?

Mastering the art of decision-making is an essential life skill in a world brimming with options and distractions. In this blog, we’ll discuss 9 of the best books on decision making to help you make better decisions and unlock your full potential.

1. Thinking, Fast and Slow

2. predictably irrational, 3. decisive, 4. thinking in bets.

• 6. The Art of Thinking Clearly 

7. Stop Overthinking

8. smart choices, 9. essentialism.

“Thinking, Fast and Slow” is a book that should be on the must-read list for anyone seeking to elevate their decision-making skills. Daniel Kahneman’s work is a beacon of knowledge, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of how our minds operate and how to make more informed choices.

At its core, the book introduces the concept of two distinct thinking systems, System One and System Two. System One operates swiftly and intuitively, often driven by emotions, while System Two is the slower, more analytical, and logical counterpart. 

By delving into the workings of these systems, Kahneman unravels their remarkable strengths and inherent biases. This knowledge will empower you to recognize when you rely on intuition and when you should engage in more deliberate, analytical thinking.

One of the book’s most valuable aspects lies in its ability to shed light on the biases that frequently lead us astray in decision-making. Kahneman’s exploration of these biases provides the tools to mitigate influences, thus enabling wiser choices in various aspects of life.

This is what the book will teach you:

• Understand the two thinking systems
• Recognize and mitigate common biases in decision-making 
• Learn when to trust your intuition and when to engage in logical thinking 
• Discover the advantages and limitations of fast thinking 
• Gain practical strategies for making better choices
• Cultivate self-awareness to align decisions with personal values 

The book is available for free on Kindle and Audible. Its hardcover costs $19.49.

“Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions” by Dan Ariely is a book that should be on everyone’s reading list for several compelling reasons. It provides deep insights into the quirks and biases that influence human behavior.

This book is a practical guide to improving decision-making. Ariely doesn’t just reveal the irrational behaviors; he also offers actionable strategies to overcome them. Whether you’re intrigued by the allure of “free” offers, plagued by procrastination, or simply looking to make more confident choices, the book provides practical advice applicable to various aspects of life.

What makes “Predictably Irrational” appealing is its relevance. Regardless of your background or profession, the insights presented here can be applied to your personal and professional life. 

Whether you’re a business professional seeking to understand consumer behavior, a student aiming to enhance study habits, or simply someone striving for self-improvement, this book offers significant tools for success.

Here’s what you’ll find in the book:

• Recognize irrational biases in decision-making
• Beware of hidden costs behind “free” offers
• Combat procrastination with practical strategies
• Harness the power of commitment for better choices
• Understand how social influences impact decisions
• Gain insights into consumer behavior and marketing
• Apply practical decision-making techniques in daily life

“Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions” is available for $14.99 on Kindle and $11.76 in paperback.

“Decisive: How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work” by Chip and Dan Heath is a compelling exploration of the art of decision-making. Drawing from extensive research in psychology, the authors shed light on the common biases and irrational tendencies that often cloud our choices.

In this engaging and relatable book, they introduce a four-step process designed to counteract these decision-making pitfalls. This clear and actionable framework called the WRAP process—Widen options, Reality test assumptions, Attain distance, Prepare to be wrong—is presented in a straightforward manner that can be easily implemented in various aspects of life. 

Whether you’re facing personal dilemmas or grappling with complex professional decisions, this four-step process empowers you to make more informed and impactful choices.

Through compelling stories and case studies, the Heaths illustrate how the WRAP process can be applied to diverse scenarios, offering you practical insights to improve your decision-making skills. 

This book will teach you how to:

• Recognize decision biases and pitfalls.
• Utilize the WRAP process for better decisions  
• Avoid narrow framing when considering options  
• Challenge assumptions by “considering the opposite”
• Gain emotional distance to reduce short-term emotions  
• Prevent indecision with tripwires for decision review  

“Decisive: How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work” is available on Kindle for $9.99 and in hardcover for $15.99.

“Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don’t Have All the Facts” by Annie Duke is a compelling exploration of decision-making that challenges conventional thinking. 

Duke, a former World Series of Poker champion turned consultant, provides a unique perspective on how to navigate life’s uncertainties and make better choices.

In this book, Duke introduces the concept of thinking in terms of bets, emphasizing the role of probability and embracing uncertainty. She draws on her experiences in poker to offer practical tools that can be applied in various areas of life, from personal relationships to business decisions. 

Duke introduces the concept of subjective probabilities, which is a game-changer in the world of decision-making. This helps you appreciate the diversity of viewpoints and approaches to decision-making—leading to more open-mindedness and the ability to incorporate various perspectives into the decision-making process.

Furthermore, “Thinking in Bets” addresses cognitive biases that often derail our decision-making. Duke delves into well-known biases like overconfidence and confirmation bias, providing practical strategies to recognize and mitigate these mental pitfalls. 

• Embrace uncertainty in decision-making
• Think in terms of probabilities for better judgments 
• Acknowledge subjective probabilities and differing viewpoints 
• Recognize and mitigate cognitive biases 
• Build a broad knowledge base to inform decisions 
• Cultivate open-mindedness and consider diverse inputs 
• Prioritize decision quality over outcome certainty 

“Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don’t Have All the Facts” is available on Kindle for $9.99 and in paperback for $13.59.

“Nudge” by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein (New York Times bestseller and named Best Book of the Year by The Economist and the Financial Times) provides a captivating exploration of human decision-making and the art of making better choices.

 At its core, this book delves into the fascinating world of human decision-making and presents valuable insights on how to make better choices. The authors dissect the common biases, heuristics, and cognitive shortcuts that lead us astray, and they do so in a way that’s engaging and relatable. You will discover why you make certain choices, even when you know those choices might not be in your best interest.

“Nudge” has far-reaching implications for policymakers and those interested in public policy. Thaler and Sunstein introduce the concept of “libertarian paternalism,” a novel approach to governance that suggests that governments can help people make better decisions without restricting their freedom of choice. 

Anyone interested in understanding how governments can improve public welfare and shape behavior through gentle nudges rather than heavy-handed regulation will find this book indispensable.

The authors provide numerous real-world examples of how subtle changes in how choices are presented can lead to significantly better outcomes. You will learn how to apply these principles— whether it’s making healthier food choices, saving more for retirement, or encouraging ethical behavior in organizations. 

The book covers a range of topics, including:

• Understanding cognitive biases and heuristics in decision-making
• Exploring the concept of choice architecture and its impact on decisions
• Learning about libertarian paternalism and its implications for policy
• Practical examples of how nudging can improve outcomes
• Applying behavioral economics to real-world problems
• Balancing individual freedom with societal well-being

“Nudge” is available for free on Audible or starting at $2.14 for the paperback edition.

6. The Art of Thinking Clearly  

“The Art of Thinking Clearly” by Rolf Dobelli is a compelling exploration of the cognitive biases that affect our everyday decision-making. Drawing from research in psychology, behavioral economics, and neuroscience, Dobelli identifies 99 common thinking errors that impact our choices. 

Dobelli’s book covers a wide range of cognitive errors, making it a valuable resource for individuals striving to make better decisions in all aspects of life. Some of the key concepts explored include social proof, the sunk cost fallacy, reciprocity, the contrast effect, and chauffeur knowledge. 

 Whether you’re looking to enhance your financial decisions, improve personal relationships, or optimize your career choices, “The Art of Thinking Clearly” provides valuable guidance on avoiding common thinking traps.

The book will teach you how to:

• Identify and understand various cognitive biases
• Apply practical strategies for better decision-making
• Enhance self-awareness and self-reflection
• Develop critical thinking skills
• Prevent costly financial mistakes
• Boost decision-making confidence

“The Art of Thinking Clearly” is available on Kindle for $10.99, in Hardcover for $13.68, and in Paperback for $7.49.

“Stop Overthinking” by Nick Trenton is a must-read for anyone looking to regain control over their racing thoughts, reduce stress, and break free from the confines of chronic overthinking. 

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s all too easy to become trapped in the never-ending cycle of worrying about the past or trying to predict the future. This book offers a lifeline for those who find themselves drowning in a sea of anxiety and stress, providing practical strategies and insights that can bring about lasting change.

You will understand the triggers behind your negative thought spirals and learn to identify and confront your inner anxieties. Trenton emphasizes the importance of focusing on relaxation and actionable steps to combat stress attacks. You will learn how to stay present, focus on relaxation, and take meaningful actions to combat stress.

Nick Trenton’s relatable journey from his farm upbringing in rural Illinois to his academic accomplishments adds a personal touch to his expert guidance. With his insights, you can unleash your unlimited potential and start living life to its fullest.

The book covers a range of topics including:

• Techniques to overcome negative thought patterns and reduce stress
• Strategies to stay present and avoid getting caught in never-ending thought loops
• How to rewire the brain and change mental habits
• Scientific approaches to alter the way you perceive and feel about yourself
• Insight into identifying and recognizing triggers that lead to overthinking
• Methods to maintain focus on relaxation and productive actions
• Proven ways to combat stress and prevent stress attacks

“Stop Overthinking” is available on Kindle for $3.99 and on Hardcover for $20.69.

“Smart Choices” is a groundbreaking guide to mastering the art of decision-making. Authored by John S. Hammond, Ralph L. Keeney, and Howard Raiffa, experts with a collective century of experience in resolving intricate decision problems, this book offers a practical and systematic approach to making better choices in every facet of life.

In a world filled with significant and mundane decisions, “Smart Choices” stands out by providing a clear and effective roadmap. It empowers readers to break down complex decisions into manageable components, identify key factors, and employ systematic thinking.

“Smart Choices” doesn’t offer quick fixes but lays the foundation for a lifelong skill. By internalizing the decision-making process outlined in the book, readers develop a valuable skill set that can be used consistently throughout their lives. This skill investment has the potential for long-lasting positive effects on personal and professional success.

Here’s what’s covered in the book:

• A structured decision-making process
• Identifying and prioritizing important objectives
• Dealing with uncertainty and subjective factors
• Generating creative alternatives
• Evaluating alternatives, considering tradeoffs
• Avoiding common cognitive biases
• Assessing risk tolerance and handling uncertainty

“Smart Choices: A Practical Guide to Making Better Decisions” is available on Kindle for $16.93 and in Hardcover for $27.76.

In a world where people often find themselves overcommitted, overwhelmed, and feeling as if they are chasing after everything at once, “Essentialism” provides a refreshing perspective on regaining control over one’s life.

It goes beyond traditional time management strategies and dives into a systematic discipline for identifying what truly matters. By asking the fundamental question, “What is essential?” you can reclaim control over your choices and invest your time wisely.

In today’s world, we face an overwhelming number of choices daily, from what to wear to what career path to pursue. By following the principles of essentialism, you can make choices with greater confidence, knowing that they align with your most important goals and values.

What this book will help you:

• Learn to distinguish between what’s truly essential and what’s not
• Discover strategies for eliminating non-essential tasks and distractions
• Prioritize high-impact activities in both personal and professional life
• Apply selective criteria to make better decisions
• Master the art of saying “no” to non-essential commitments
• Develop disciplined time and energy management techniques

“Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less” is available on Kindle for $14.99 and in Hardcover for $20.24.

In your quest for better decision-making, remember that progress takes time, patience, and practice. The ability to make sound decisions is a skill you can nurture and master with time.

The books we’ve covered have shared invaluable techniques, thought-provoking anecdotes, and research-backed strategies. They’ve shown us the importance of understanding our cognitive biases and harnessing the power of intuition.

Happy reading!

Written by:

Kazi Ayesha Rahman is a passionate storyteller with a knack for captivating audiences through her words. She specializes in the art of content marketing, technical writing, and tech reviews. To connect with Ayesha or discuss collaboration opportunities, you can find her on LinkedIn.

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Decisions about Decisions: Practical Reason in Ordinary Life

• ISBN-10 1009400460
• ISBN-13 978-1009400466
• Publisher Cambridge University Press
• Publication date August 17, 2023
• Language English
• Dimensions 6 x 0.75 x 9 inches
• Print length 250 pages
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Book description, about the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Cambridge University Press (August 17, 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 250 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1009400460
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1009400466
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.05 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.75 x 9 inches
• #208 in Economic Policy
• #270 in Economic Policy & Development (Books)
• #5,552 in Motivational Self-Help (Books)

About the author

Cass r. sunstein.

Cass R. Sunstein is the Robert Walmsley University Professor at Harvard Law School, where he is the founder and director of the Program on Behavioral Economics and Public Policy. He is by far the most cited law professor in the United States. From 2009 to 2012 he served in the Obama administration as Administrator of the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. He has testified before congressional committees, appeared on national television and radio shows, been involved in constitution-making and law reform activities in a number of nations, and written many articles and books, including Simpler: The Future of Government and Wiser: Getting Beyond Groupthink to Make Groups Smarter.

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Best Decision Making Books: Top Picks for Strategic Minds

In today’s fast-paced world, making informed and effective decisions is a skill that can have a profound impact on both personal and professional realms.

This is where decision-making books come into play. They provide structured approaches and philosophical insights into the art of making choices.

When searching for the best decision-making literature, it’s crucial to consider the book’s relevance to one’s particular needs.

Each book has its own angle on the subject, and what will be most beneficial depends heavily on an individual’s current challenges and objectives.

Books penned by experienced professionals, renowned psychologists, or successful business leaders often provide practical and field-tested advice.

Additionally, it’s beneficial to look for books that not only elucidate theories but also offer real-world examples and actionable steps.

Top Picks for Decision-Making Books

Each title has been chosen for its substantive guidance, compelling insights, and practical strategies.

Decide Smarter

Diving into “How to Decide,” we were struck by the straightforward approach that Annie Duke presents—this audiobook acts as a mentor walking you through your decision-making process.

It’s not every day we come across a guide that balances theoretical insights with hands-on tactics so deftly.

We enjoyed the conversational tone, as if Duke were right there discussing the topic over coffee.

While one might argue that you could condense the core ideas into fewer pages, the elaboration helps solidify the concepts, in our opinion.

We recommend “How to Decide” to anyone seeking to boost their decision-making prowess, especially for those who appreciate a mix of theory with practicum.

The Best Yes Guide

We believe The Best Yes is essential for anyone eager to improve their decision-making skills amidst life’s daily pressures.

Upon reading “The Best Yes,” I was struck by how seamlessly the author intertwines spirituality with the art of decision making.

Initially, I had reservations about how the content would speak to secular readers, but the principles shared weren’t overly dogmatic. Instead, they embody a universal truth about setting boundaries and prioritizing that anyone can apply, regardless of their beliefs.

Readers who prefer a straight-to-the-point, bulleted advice format might find the narrative storytelling a tad lengthy.

Making the Best of a Bad Decision

We found this guide insightful and steeped in realism, equipping us to move beyond our past missteps.

Recently, we explored “Making the Best of a Bad Decision” and discovered its capacity to make peace with regret.

Our time with the book was also a reflection journey. It didn’t offer simplistic solutions or impractical advice. Instead, it focused on achievable steps and a mindset tuned to growth and grace.

Even though some chapters shone brighter than others, each contributed to the overall narrative of hope and the possibility of redemption from our misjudgments.

The Decision Book

We particularly appreciated the diagrams, which made complex theories far easier to digest.

However, those of us with a deeper background in strategic planning noted some models’ simplicity. They serve as good refreshers but might not challenge seasoned professionals.

The Art of Decision Making

Buying guide, assessing content quality.

We seek well-researched and informative material, providing actionable advice supported by real-world examples or data.

Presentation and Accessibility

Visual aids such as charts or diagrams can elucidate complex concepts.

We examine the publication date and the pertinence of its content to contemporary decision-making challenges.

Reader Reviews

Reader feedback can provide insight into the book’s usability and effectiveness in teaching decision-making skills.

Price Point

Frequently asked questions.

We’ve compiled a list of common inquiries regarding books that can enhance decision-making skills and provide clarity on this vital topic.

What are the top-rated books that improve decision-making skills?

Each book provides unique insights into the cognitive processes that influence how we make decisions.

Which decision-making and problem-solving books are recommended by experts?

What are the widely recognized classic books on decision-making.

Classic books that stand the test of time in the field of decision-making include “The Art of Strategy: A Game Theorist’s Guide to Success in Business and Life” by Avinash K. Dixit and Barry J. Nalebuff, as well as “Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions” by Dan Ariely.

Can you suggest some books that deal explicitly with indecisiveness?

What texts explore the psychology behind effective decision-making techniques.

Texts that delve into the psychology of decision-making often include “Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness” by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein, which examines how we can be influenced to make decisions that are in our best interest, and “Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking” by Malcolm Gladwell, exploring the advantages of intuitive decision-making.

Which books should adults read to enhance their decision-making capabilities?

Another excellent read is “How We Decide” by Jonah Lehrer, which brings together neuroscience and psychology to illuminate how we can make better decisions.

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The 9 Best Books on Decision Making, According to Experts

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Are you a good decision maker? Do you ever wonder how improved decision-making skills could make you more successful, professionally and personally? The decisions you make today have far-reaching consequences, and research indicates that though we’re far more irrational than we’d like to think, there are proven ways to learn how to make better decisions , many of them recorded by experts in some of the best books on decision making. But finding the best, most insightful, and most practical books on decision making can be difficult, so we’ve done the hard work for you, narrowing down the extensive list to the absolute best books on decision making.

Here’s our carefully researched list of the 9 best books on decision making . To compose this list, we used quantitative criteria such as:

• High-quality recommendations from successful leaders and thinkers like Bill Gates, Tim Ferriss, and Barack Obama.
• Number of weeks on bestseller lists like the New York Times
• Common perception and ratings by common readers, from networks like Amazon and Goodreads

Don’t have time to get the benefits of reading all the best books on decision making? That’s where Shortform comes in. With Shortform, you can get the key lessons from the best books on decision making in minutes, not in hours. Our experts condense the key lessons from decision-making books like these into an efficient summary. Check out our high-quality summaries of these 9 books to see if you can learn more quickly.

1. Thinking, Fast and Slow, by Daniel Kahneman

TITLE: Thinking, Fast and Slow AUTHOR: Daniel Kahneman TIME: 66 READS: 53.8 IMG_URL: https://www.shortform.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/thinking_cover.jpg BOOK_SUMMARYURL: thinking-fast-and-slow-summary-daniel-kahneman AMZN_ID: B00555X8OA

We’re so self-confident in our rationality that we think all our decisions are well-considered. When we choose a job, decide how to spend our time, or buy something, we think we’ve considered all the relevant factors and are making the optimal choice. In reality, our minds are riddled with biases leading to poor decision making. We ignore data that we don’t see, and we weigh evidence inappropriately.

Thinking, Fast and Slow is a masterful book on psychology and behavioral economics by Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman. Learn your two systems of thinking, how you make decisions, and your greatest vulnerabilities to bad decisions.

Thinking, Fast and Slow is reportedly a favorite of Barack Obama’s , and he included it in his list of “required reading” in 2016. It’s clearly one of the best books on decision making valued by leaders.

2. Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking, by Malcolm Gladwell

TITLE: Blink AUTHOR: Malcolm Gladwell TIME: 30 READS: 36.3 IMG_URL: https://www.shortform.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/blink-cover.jpg BOOK_SUMMARYURL: blink-summary-malcolm-gladwell AMZN_ID: B000PAAH3K

In Blink , Malcolm Gladwell explores the decisions we make in the blink of an eye. We’re often taught to view these snap judgments as inferior to decisions based on rational analysis, but Gladwell shows us that decisions made intuitively can be as good as, and sometimes better than, conscious decisions. Blink delves into how and why we make the gut decisions we do, when it’s unsafe to trust our guts, and what we can do to make all our snap judgments smarter, less biased, and more efficient.

On his podcast, Tim Ferriss said of Gladwell that he’s “very, very good at taking what could be dense, impenetrable material or overwhelming material and making it a story that is easy to consume as storytelling.”

3. Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness, by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein

Every day we’re constantly faced with choices—what to order at a restaurant, what clothes to buy at a store, what show to stream when we get home from work. We’re so used to making choices that we’re not even aware of the way those choices are presented . If grocery stories didn’t stock candy at the register, would we eat less of it? If we had to “opt out” of being organ donors rather than “opt in,” would the organ donor pool grow?

In Nudge, Nobel Prize–winning economist Richard Thaler and renowned legal scholar Cass Sunstein examine how certain choice structures—“architectures,” in their terms—can “nudge” us toward better decisions. 

In this book, you’ll learn how flesh-and-blood humans differ from the humans studied in economics, why people are so bad at saving, and how to revitalize the institution of marriage (hint: abolish it).

The book was so popular by 2009 that then-president Barack Obama appointed author Cass Sunstein as the head of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, “charged with using nudges to improve regulations.” It’s also impacted policy in Germany, Canada, the UK, and Qatar, making it a hugely successful book on decision making.

4. Principles: Life and Work, by Ray Dalio

TITLE: Principles: Life and Work AUTHOR: Ray Dalio TIME: 59 READS: 33.8 IMG_URL: https://www.shortform.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/principles_cover.jpg BOOK_SUMMARYURL: principles-life-and-work-summary-ray-dalio AMZN_ID: B071CTK28D

Ray Dalio is founder of Bridgewater Associates, the largest hedge fund in the world. In his book Principles , Dalio shares the guiding principles powering his success and Bridgewater’s.

Principles is a master class in rational thinking. The main theme is that finding truth is the best way to make decisions, and that ego, emotion, and blind spots prevent you from discovering the truth. Dalio shares his major strategies to circumvent these weaknesses, including radical open-mindedness , thoughtful disagreement , radical transparency , and believability-weighted decision making.

Tim Ferriss says of Principles , “I highly recommend this book. It has already changed how I think about making decisions in my life and in my business, how I think about managing, how I think about managing, how I think about communications between teams. I could go on and on and on.”

Bill Gates has said of the author, “Ray Dalio has provided me with invaluable guidance,” and Arianna Huffington wrote of Principles , “Beautifully written and filled with such wisdom.”

5. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion, by Robert B. Cialdini

TITLE: Influence AUTHOR: Robert B. Cialdini TIME: 36 READS: 30 IMG_URL: https://www.shortform.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/influence-cover.jpg BOOK_SUMMARYURL: influence-psychology-of-persuasion-summary-robert-cialdini AMZN_ID: B002BD2UUC

Have you ever wondered how persuasion works? How are salespeople, fundraisers, and politicians able to lure us into compliance — without even thinking that we’re being manipulated?

This is what Robert Cialdini’s Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion sets out to answer. The book shows how the persuaders of the world use our basic mental instincts against us, transforming them into tools of compliance. By exploring the origins and common uses of six principles of persuasion — reciprocity, commitment/consistency, social proof , liking, authority, and scarcity — you’ll learn to spot when you’re being hustled and discover how to beat the persuaders at their own game.

Influence is on Good to Great author Jim Collins’s recommended reading list , and billionaire and Vice Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway Charlie Munger reportedly gives away more copies of Influence than any other book . Influence is clearly considered by top leaders as one of the best books on decision making.

6. The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable, by Nassim Nicholas Taleb

TITLE: The Black Swan AUTHOR: Nassim Nicholas Taleb TIME: 27 READS: 30.8 IMG_URL: https://www.shortform.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/blackswan-cover.jpg BOOK_SUMMARYURL: the-black-swan-summary-nassim-nicholas-taleb AMZN_ID: 081297381X

Black Swans are extremely unpredictable events that have massive impacts on human society. These include positive Black Swans, like the invention of the Internet and the discovery of antibiotics, as well as negative Black Swans, like the 2008 recession.

One of the reasons we make bad decisions is that we don’t take Black Swans into account. Black Swans compel people to explain why they happened—to show, after the fact, that they were indeed predictable. Taleb’s thesis, however, is that Black Swans, by their very nature, are always unpredictable. Furthermore, because of our cognitive biases , we’re more vulnerable than ever to misunderstanding Black Swans and their impact.

Learn what Black Swans are, why we’re susceptible to them, and how best to prepare yourself for the unpredictable.

Jeff Bezos said of The Black Swan , “The key thing about a book is that you lose yourself in the author’s world.”

Bill Gates wrote of the book , “ The Black Swan  is a thought-provoking exercise, prompting us to reexamine how we predict the future .  Taleb argues that ‘history does not crawl, it jumps.’ We are pattern-seeking creatures, and put a lot of faith in what we’ve seen in the past. Yet this same outlook, while valuable, can blind us to many of the future’s possibilities. This book is a great way to shake up some of your ingrained beliefs, and help you start thinking about how to be ready for when these random events occur.”

7. Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In, by Roger Fisher and William Ury

TITLE: Getting to Yes AUTHOR: Roger Fisher and William Ury TIME: 30 READS: 32.3 IMG_URL: https://www.shortform.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/gettingtoyes-cover.jpg BOOK_SUMMARYURL: getting-to-yes-summary-roger-fisher-william-ury AMZN_ID: 143118757

In business and in life, decisions are often made as a group. Getting to Yes by Roger Fisher and William Ury is a practical guide to negotiating more effectively whether you’re haggling over a price, negotiating for a pay increase, or debating how to divide the housework. The authors propose an alternative to traditional adversarial bargaining, which often results in unfair agreements and strained relationships. Principled negotiation , by contrast, aims to reach wise and fair agreements efficiently and civilly. In addition to walking you through their method, the authors offer numerous tips and techniques for handling challenging negotiations. Anyone can use their method, under any circumstances.

Charlie Munger recommends Getting to Yes in his book Poor Charlie’s Almanack .

Alan Pierce, CEO of Ansuz Balder Magni Investments, says, “The underlying premise of the book is keeping a flexible mind and making a real effort to understand someone’s underlying motivations as well as what they are trying to accomplish. This baseline will help you to find common ground in difficult negotiations and create mutually beneficial and long-lasting agreements….This book has also helped me in creating mutually beneficial partnerships with partners and investors in my company, ABM Investments.” Because you need to come to mutual decisions no matter what you do for a living, Getting to Yes is one of the best books on decision making.

8. Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It, by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz

TITLE: Never Split the Difference AUTHOR: Chris Voss and Tahl Raz TIME: 33 READS: 61.1 IMG_URL: https://www.shortform.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/neversplit_cover.jpg BOOK_SUMMARYURL: never-split-the-difference-summary-chris-voss AMZN_ID: B014DUR7L2

Never Split the Difference makes the case that decision-making is highly irrational and emotionally-driven. Therefore, skilled negotiators learn to tap into the deeper emotional needs of their counterparts: what do they really want? What do they really fear?

Using tactics like active listening, mirroring, and calibrated questions, talented negotiators get what they want by demonstrating empathy and building rapport. This, in turn, creates the trust that enables the counterpart to open up, let their guard down, and reveal key information.

Drive author Daniel H. Pink says Never Split the Difference is “a different kind of business book—one that emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence without sacrificing deal-making power. It comes from the pen of a former hostage negotiator—someone who couldn’t take no for an answer—which makes it fascinating reading. But it’s also eminently practical. In these pages, you will find the techniques for getting the deal you want.”

Adam Grant, author of Originals and Give and Take , says of Never Split the Difference , “This book blew my mind.  It’s a riveting read, full of instantly actionable advice—not just for high-stakes negotiations, but also for handling everyday conflicts at work and at home.”

9. First Things First, by Stephen R. Covey and A. Roger Merrill

TITLE: First Things First AUTHOR: Stephen R. Covey TIME: 51 READS: 29.8 IMG_URL: https://www.shortform.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/first-things-first-cover.jpg BOOK_SUMMARYURL: first-things-first-summary-stephen-covey AMZN_ID: B00V1XGKJK

Do you have trouble making decisions because you don’t know what to prioritize? Do you feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day? That you’re constantly checking things off your to-do list but still don’t have enough time for the important things? Your problem might be that you’re working efficiently, but not effectively. Getting your priorities straight can make decision making a lot easier.

In First Things First , Stephen R. Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People , presents a time-management approach that focuses on priorities, or “first things.” This approach teaches you to use your time effectively, meaning you focus more on what you’re spending your time on than how much time you’re spending. Learn how to identify your priorities; schedule your time at the daily and weekly levels; and find win-win opportunities among people.

Larry King said of the book, “Covey has reached the apex with First Things First . This is an important work. I can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t be helped by reading it.” If getting your priorities straight hinders your ability to choose, First Things First is one of the best books on decision making.

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Amanda Penn is a writer and reading specialist. She’s published dozens of articles and book reviews spanning a wide range of topics, including health, relationships, psychology, science, and much more. Amanda was a Fulbright Scholar and has taught in schools in the US and South Africa. Amanda received her Master's Degree in Education from the University of Pennsylvania.

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12 Great Books To Improve Decision Making in 2023

• January 12, 2023
• Tools and Resources

Is one of your 2023 goals to try and become a better decision maker? If it is, I have collected some of the best books on decision making to level up your skills. 

According to the Program of Negotiation at Harvard Law School, “Making smart choices is a fundamental life skill, relevant to everyone: business people, doctors, lawyers, teachers, students, parents, young, and old. Your decisions shape the course of your professional career and the quality of your personal life. Yet few people learn real decision-making skills.” [ Quote Link ]

Check out this list of 12 outstanding books on decision making that will improve your skills:

Thinking Fast And Slow

• Decisive: How To Make Better Decisions In Life And Work
• Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking
• Outliers: The Story Of Success
• The Paradox Of Choice: Why More Is Less
• Atomic Habits: An Easy And Proven Way To Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

How To Lie With Statistics

Smart choices: a practical guide to making better decisions.

• Stop Overthinking: 23 Techniques to Relieve Stress, Stop Negative Spirals, Declutter Your Mind, and Focus on the Present 

Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions

• Don’t Overthink It: Make Easier Decisions, Stop Second Guessing, And Bring More Joy To Your Life
• The Decision Maker’s Playbook: How To Make Data Meaningful, Meanings Actionable, And Actions Reality

(I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.)

For more in depth descriptions, check out the rest of the post below!

By Daniel Kahneman

Buy It Here

Memorable quote: “We can be blind to the obvious, and we are also blind to our blindness.” 

What it’s about: This book explains how two brain systems are always competing for control of your behavior and activities, how this leads to mistakes in memory, judgment, and decision-making. Most importantly, it guides you through what you can do to fix it!

What you will learn:

• Problem-solving, decision-making, and behavioral economics for those without psychology degrees.
• System 1: Fast and Intuitive
• System 2: Deliberate and logical
• How overconfidence can lead to biased conclusions that often lead to outright errors
• Humans are naturally storytellers which can cause difficulty when comprehending statistical or numerical data
• The power of narratives and their impact on decision making

Decisive: How To Make Better Choices in Life and Work

By Chip and Dan Heath

Memorable quote: “Success emerges from the quality of the decisions we make and the quantity of luck we receive. We can’t control luck. But we can control the way we make choices.” 

What it’s about: This book shares hints and techniques for improving our personal decision-making. It begins by pointing out how bad of decision-makers we truly are and how, if we could become more aware of our decision-making process, start making better ones.

• How to not artificially limit your choices when you get stuck making a decision
• How to pursue many options when problem-solving instead of limiting yourself to one
• How to look at the solutions someone else has created for the same problem
• To play devil’s advocate against your decision to reduce any unconscious bias
• The impact of running a small experiment to test your decisions

Blink: The Power Of Thinking Without Thinking

By Malcom Gladwell

Memorable quote: “The key to good decision making is not knowledge. It is understanding. We are swimming in the former. We are desperately lacking in the latter.” 

What it’s about: Blink is a book about how we think without thinking, about choices that seem to be made in an instant-in the blink of an eye-that aren’t as simple as they seem.

A few questions explored in the book are, why are some people brilliant decision makers, while others are consistently inept? Why do some people follow their instincts and win, while others end up stumbling into error?

• How intuitive judgements can sometimes be superior to conscious ones
• We make conclusions and judgements in the blink of an eye far more often than we realize
• How people’s decisions are tremendously impacted and influenced by our unconscious selves
• How stress can influence and drive us to the wrong judgements
• How market research may not always be the best indicator of consumer behavior

Outliers: The Story of Success

Memorable quote: “Practice isn’t the thing you do once you’re good. It’s the thing you do that makes you good.” 

What it’s about: This book delves deeply into learning about outliers in society – the top athletes, businessmen, politicians, etc. and outlines that factors that contributed to their success. While we typically think that success is a product of talent and hard work, Gladwell explains that these are not exclusively the contributing factors. Luck, culture, upbringing and more also play a huge role. By seeing the big picture of what constitutes success, you’ll have more information to make better decisions and achieve your goals.

• Why it’s important to “start early and be patient”
• How the month you were born in can have a huge impact on what you achieve
• How geography and your cultural background heavily influence what you can achieve
• Building more equity to level the playing fields can create more opportunity for others to succeed

The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less

By Barry Schwartz

Memorable quote: “Learning to choose is hard. Learning to choose well is harder. And learning to choose well in a world of unlimited possibilities is harder still, perhaps too hard.” 

What it’s about: This book explains why too much of a good thing has proven detrimental to our psychological and emotional well-being. Leveraging current research in the social sciences, he makes the counterintuitive case that eliminating choices can greatly reduce the stress, anxiety, and the busyness in our lives.

• Why the more options we have means we’re more likely to make mistakes
• Why more options can equal less satisfaction from decisions
• How the overwhelming amount of choices contributes to the unhappiness of modern society
• A maximer: someone who seeks and accepts the best. Choices can feel more demanding and less fulfilling
• A satisficer: someone who can settle for a choice that’s “good enough”. Choices can feel less demanding and more fulfilling

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

By James Clear

Memorable quote: “All big things come from small beginnings. The seed of every habit is a single, tiny decision. But as that decision is repeated, a habit sprouts and grows stronger. Roots entrench themselves and branches grow. The task of breaking a bad habit is like uprooting a powerful oak within us. And the task of building a good habit is like cultivating a delicate flower one day at a time.” 

What it’s about: You’d be surprised by how much our brain’s physical anatomy plays a role in forming both good and bad habits. This book will give you a comprehensive look into the habit formation process and explain how you can develop good systems to support good habits. A series of good decisions enable good habits, resulting in the success of your goals.

• How small daily decisions compounded over the long term can turn into good or bad habits
• To pay attention and be mindful of the daily decisions you make, even the smallest of decisions
• How to overcome a lack of motivation and willpower
• How to design the environment you work and live in to make success easier
• Tools, strategies, and systems to transform your habits

By Darrel Huff

Memorable quote: “The secret language of statistics, so appealing in a fact-minded culture, is employed to sensationalize, inflate, confuse, and oversimplify.”

What it’s about: We are constantly being fed facts and opinions usually supported with “statistics” to make them easier to comprehend and more credible. When making important decisions, people typically rely on facts, data, statistics, and other quantifiable information. This book will teach you to go beyond the presented statistics and encourages to always seek the source of the statistics to make the best decisions.

• Why it’s important to be skeptical of presented statistics when making important decisions
• How to ask the right questions to ensure presented statistics are accurate, relevant, and objective
• How statistical analysis can be skewed by politicians, journalists, advertisers, etc.
• How the information we all consume on a daily basis may have been manipulated, either intentionally or unintentionally, to give us false impressions

By John Hammond, Ralph Keeney, and Howard Raiffa

Memorable quote: “The way you state your problem frames your decision. It determines the alternatives you consider and the way you evaluate them. Posing the right problem drives everything else.”- John S Hammond

What it’s about: Three leading experts from Harvard, MIT, and the University of Southern California teach you how to approach all types of decisions with a simple and efficient set of skills. This book offers a straightforward and easy to follow user guide to help improve the way you make personal, family, and business decisions to help you achieve your goals.

• How to assess your options more effectively and clearly
• The process of how to make a good decision: specifying objectives, identifying alternatives, clarifying uncertainties, making tradeoffs, and understanding your risk tolerance
• Different traps we get caught in when making decisions: The sunk cost trap and the confirming-evidence trap
• How to seek out proactive decision-making opportunities instead of waiting for them to turn into problems

Stop Overthinking: 23 Techniques to Relieve Stress, Stop Negative Spirals, Declutter Your Mind, and Focus on the Present

By Nick Trenton

Memorable quote: “More alarming than this, overthinking can completely warp your perception of events in time, shaping your personality in ways that mean you are more risk averse, more negatively focused and less resilient. When you’re constantly tuned into Stress FM you are not actually consciously aware and available in the present moment to experience life as it is. You miss out on countless potential feelings of joy, gratitude, connection and creativity because of your relentless focus on what could go wrong, or what has gone wrong.” 

What it’s about: It’s incredibly challenging to make good decisions when you are constantly worried, feeling anxious, and stressed. This book will teach you various techniques and approaches to improve your mental health which can in turn, help you make better decisions that you need to make in everyday life.

• Proven techniques to help you rewire your brain, control your thoughts, and change your mental habits
• How to end counterproductive thought patterns
• How to declutter your brain and focus more, putting you in a better mental state to make better decisions

By Dan Ariely

Memorable quote: “we usually think of ourselves as sitting the driver’s seat, with ultimate control over the decisions we made and the direction our life takes; but, alas, this perception has more to do with our desires-with how we want to view ourselves-than with reality” 

What it’s about: This book dives deep into the hidden forces we encounter everyday that shape our decisions. It challenges the notion that humans are rational and logical and are rather irrational and more emotional. These characteristics however are not entirely our faults though. They’re systematic and predictable making us predictably irrational!

• Why giving up on your long-terms goals for immediate gratification is procrastination
• Why people would rather work for a cause than money
• That humans have a natural tendency to focus on what we might lose rather than gain
• ”To make informed decisions we need to somehow experience and understand the emotional state we will be in at the other side of the experience. Learning how to bridge this gap is essential to making some of the important decisions of our lives.”

Don’t Overthink It: Make Easier Decisions, Stop Second Guessing, and Bring More Joy to Your Life 

By Anne Bogel

Memorable quote: “ When faced with an unexpected moment of decision, it’s easy to freeze. But to get to the other side where the good stuff is, you have to enter into the messy middle of uncertainty and decision. The joy is at the end, and the only way out is through.” 

What it’s about: We’re faced with questions everyday ranging from small – what do I want to eat for dinner? – To large – What do I want to do in my life? This book will teach a process for making decisions and choices that you’ll be more comfortable with. More importantly it will explain how to use an appropriate amount of energy that will allow you to focus on all the other important stuff that matters in life.

  What you will learn:

• How overthinking consumes a substantial amount of mental energy to make decisions
• How to lay a solid foundation that will help you overthink less
• How to overcome negative thought patterns as they arise and putting practices in place to reduce it in the future
• How to expect good things from less than good situations

The Decision Maker’s Playbook: How To Make Data Meaningful, Meanings Actionable, and Actions Reality

By Simon Mueller and Julia Dhar

Memorable quote: Use “mental models” to make smart decisions in an increasingly complex world that is drowning in data.  

What it’s about: This playbook will teach you how to streamline your decision-making process. Through lots of visuals and illustrations, it will help you to look at data and see patterns, identify relationships, and view the world through multiple lenses. If you are in a leadership position or an entrepreneur, this book is definitely for you!

• A mental model to approach tough decisions
• How to better describe and frame problems so that you make the right decisions
• How to be aware of your blind spots
• How to apply systems thinking

Did I miss a favorite book on decision making? Share it in the comments below!

What I’m Reading (From My Bookshelf )

• Contagious – Why Things Catch On
• How To Master Peer Interview Questions (With 10 Examples)
• Humble Inquiry: An Ingenious Way To Build Strong Relationships
• The Secret To Growing Your Skill For Problem Solving
• 7 Essential Traits of a Modern and Successful Leader

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10 Decision-Making Books for Leaders

Written by Beirem Ben Barrah on 12/05/2022 .

This article focuses on decision-making books that we believe every leader should read -or learn more about. Scientific insights from behavioral psychology and neuroscience require leaders to re-think many of their assumptions about how people -including themselves- think, decide, and act. This is particularly important when dealing with high-stakes, complex decision-making.

During our training and consulting projects, many of the professionals we work with ask us for brain and behavior book recommendations. We love these questions as we are avid readers ourselves and we write these articles to share the decision-making books we have recommended most often with you. The list below is not ranked as these decision-making books specialize in a variety of areas.

Top 10 Decision-making books for leaders

1. superforecasting: the art & science of prediction.

This book is brilliant and shares the first demonstrably effective way to improve our ability to predict the future. You will follow the story of how Philip Tetlock -a leading scientist- and his team study how people make predictions and how this will help you make better forecasts and decisions. The New York Times called it “The most important book on decision making since Daniel Kahneman’s Thinking, Fast and Slow.”

This book draws on many cognitive biases (systematic thinking patterns) and practical field experiments. Tetlock and his team started the US government-funded Good Judgment Project which took tens of thousands ‘ordinary’ people and asked them to forecast global events. They found a group of superforecasters who consistently outperformed the benchmark, competitors, prediction markets, and amazingly even intelligence agents with access to classified information.

By observing, analyzing, and comparing the superforecasters with other forecasters, they found a set of principles that demonstrably affect our ability to predict the future. When they taught these principles to a set of ‘normal’ forecasters, they also became significantly better. We believe this decision-making book is an essential read for any leader as it goes beyond just prediction. It will help you think more clearly in all situations.

2. Decision Leadership

This book preaches that the primary goal of leaders is to empower others. Decision Leadership offers a fascinating view in which organizations are decision factories, and their leaders decision architects. Their job is to empower their people with the tools to hone their professional judgment, and make better decisions systematically.

This book is crammed with overarching evidence-based tools, techniques, and frameworks for better decision-making. It builds on decades of real-world cases, and scientific literature like Thinking Fast and Slow, Nudge, and Predictably Irrational.

Decision leadership is essential reading for leaders, but should be on the bookshelf of anyone concerned with the quality of organizational decisions.

3. You’re About to Make a Terrible Mistake

When Daniel Kahneman (author of Thinking Fast and Slow) describes a book as “A masterful introduction to the state of the art in managerial decision-making”, you know you’re in for a treat. Olivier Sibony’s You’re About To Make A Terrible Mistake contains frightening real-world cases of cognitive bias in decision-making in top-tier organizations. It’s impossible not to see de-biasing your decision-making as a top priority after reading this one.

Luckily, this book contains a -if not the- most actionable framework with interventions and techniques for better decision-making in business. The author’s decades of experience as a McKinsey partner, as well as his academic competencies as a HEC professor, shine through in this masterclass in decision-making.

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4. Super Thinking: The Big Book of Mental Models

To make sense of the world, your brain creates mental models of ideas and situations. These mental models are essentially a set of frameworks that help you separate good ideas from bad ones and make decisions more effectively. More broadly, they help you better understand how the world works.

These mental models come from many disciplines like psychology, physics, economics, information theory, and are usually obtained through a lifetime of study. The authors of this decision-making book collected over 350 mental models and help you get a basic understanding of each one. It is a very insightful read and helps you explore before you decide which mental models you want to study in-depth to improve your thinking.

To give you a glimpse, some of the mental models discussed are de-risking , overfitting , heuristic , inertia , A/B testing , decision fatigue , parkinson’s law , and the scientific method .

5. The Art of Thinking Clearly

This book is a collection of 99 cognitive biases that science has proven to affect our thinking and decision-making. We highly recommend this book to those of you who want to learn more about biases but do not quite know where to start. This will give you a broad network of biases and afterwards your mind can start puzzling together how some of these relate to each other.

The author does a great job at making the abstract concepts more concrete by telling stories and giving examples. He also points to some of the things you can do to debias your own thinking as you will probably -like us- recognize yourself in may of the examples. You will find nearly all well-known biases in the book and it will undoubtedly help you think more clearly.

Examples of biases in the book are survivorship bias , confirmation bias , overconfidence effect, hindsight bias , action bias , hyperbolic discounting , information bias , salience effect , and curse of knowledge .

6. Principles

You might not have expected us to recommend a book by the entrepreneur behind and Chief Investment Officer of the world’s largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates. When this book came out, we were very excited as Ray Dalio managed to explain the concept of principle-based thinking extremely well to the public. If you regularly make important decisions, take the time and read this book.

In this book, he explains the principles that led to his own development and the exceptionally, effective culture of Bridgewater. These are focused on his core idea of creating “an idea meritocracy that strives to achieve meaningful work and meaningful relationships through radical transparency”. Making decisions based on principles allows you to see most new situations as ‘another one of these’.

The book will provide you with powerful principles to follow yourself but like the author, we believe the true value is in creating and optimizing your own set of principles that support your decision-making. There is also a beautiful 30-minute video by Ray Dalio that explains many of these principles.

7. Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment

This book is written by a few of the biggest names in behavioral science and -like Thinking, Fast and Slow – it’s a tough read but amazingly insightful. The unsurprisingly realist core idea is that our decision-making is not only impacted by bias but also by noise . This means it’s even harder to assess direct cause-and-effect between many of our decisions and the outcome, which in turn makes learning harder.

Noise is at the root of one of the biggest hidden costs known to organizations in the 21st century: Inconsistency in professional judgment and decision-making. Where there is judgment, there is noise, and often a lot more than you think.

Among all this noise and bias, there is hope. This book offers concrete tools to identify and mitigate both noise and bias from organizational judgment and decision-making.

8. Fooled by Randomness

Nassim Taleb is a mathematician, philosopher, and investor many of whose ideas like black swan events and antifragility have become mental models of their own. This book is about how we perceive and deal with luck in business and life and core thesis is that we (subconsciously) tend to attribute to skill what should be attributed to luck.

The author combines his experience in the world of financial trading -a decision-making arena- with philosophical and psychological insights, backed up with mathematical rigor. Reading this will make you more aware of the true influence you have over your own achievements and how to integrate these insights into your life as a person and professional.

9. Algorithms to Live By

This book explains the principles that humans can borrow from computer science to consistently make better decisions. The ‘brain = computer’ metaphor is quite common nowadays and this book focuses on the algorithms we use to make decisions. If you have read other another decision-making books like Thinking Fast, and Slow or our article on System 1 & 2 thinking , you can think of these as guidelines for good system 2 decision-making.

The best thinkers combine insights from multiple disciplines and this book is on the interesting intersection of cognitive psychology-technology. This will probably prove an especially relevant read for the more analytical-minded leaders among you as applying the algorithms will come more natural to you.

10. Think Again

This book explores why good leaders make bad decisions. The authors have done in-depth research into bad decisions that could have been prevented by good decision-making and explores how any leader can prevent similar judgment errors. This journey led them to consider how our brain makes decisions.

It explores the stories of how these decisions were made considering many factors including the decision-maker’s history and context, other stakeholders, and communications. They explain how this happened with decision-making processes that involve our pattern recognition and emotional tagging .

What’s next?

We hope you enjoyed this article on 10 decision-making books for leaders. Read or listen to some of these decision-making books and apply the most important things you learn. Keep an eye on our Neurofied blog for more book recommendations and articles! Or find 100+ videos on our Youtube channel !

About Neurofied

Neurofied is a behavioral science company specialized in training , consulting , and change management . We help organizations drive evidence-based and human-centric change with insights and interventions from behavioral psychology and neuroscience. Consider us your behavioral business partner who helps you build behavioral change capabilities internally .

Since 2018, we have trained thousands of professionals and worked with over 100 management, HR, growth, and innovation teams of organizations such as Johnson & Johnson, KPMG, Deloitte, Novo Nordisk, ABN AMRO, and the Dutch government. We are also frequent speakers at universities and conferences.

Our mission is to democratize the value of behavioral science for teams and organizations. If you see any opportunities to collaborate, please contact us here .

Founder & CEO at Neurofied

Beirem Ben Barrah

The 5 Best Books on Decision Making for Unrivalled Results

Decision making is a difficult skill to master.

We often agonize over decisions, big and small, personal and professional.

We can spend hours debating pros and cons, only to feel no closer to a resolution.

And when we do make a decision, we can second-guess ourselves endlessly.

There are, however, ways to make decision making easier.

The first step is to educate yourself on the subject.

To that end, here are five of the best books on decision making

They’re all written by experts on the subject and offer different perspectives on how to approach the topic .

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Listen to the books below

The 5 Best Books on Decision Making

1. decisive: how to make better choices in life and work by chip and dan heath.

Chip and Dan Heath discuss how individuals can make better choices by understanding the factors that contribute to poor decision-making.

The Heath brothers identify four decision traps that lead to bad choices: sunk cost fallacy, confirmation bias, endowment effect, and overconfidence.

The sunk cost fallacy is the belief that we should continue investing in something as long as we have invested so much in it in the past, regardless of whether or not it is currently beneficial.

Confirmation bias is the tendency to look for information that confirms our preexisting beliefs, rather than considering all available evidence.

The endowment effect is the belief that we should value something more simply because we own it.

And overconfidence is the mistaken belief that we are better at making decisions than we actually are.

The Heath brothers offer a number of strategies for overcoming these decision traps.

• To avoid the sunk cost fallacy, for example, we should ask ourselves whether continuing to invest in something will actually bring us closer to our goals.
• To overcome confirmation bias, we should seek out dissenting opinions and consider all evidence objectively.
• To avoid the endowment effect, we should remember that what matters most is what we do with an object, not whether or not we own it.
• And to overcome overconfidence, we should solicit feedback from others and test our assumptions before making decisions.

The Heath brothers also emphasize the importance of taking time to reflect on our choices.

We should ask ourselves what went well and what went poorly in order to learn from our successes and failures.

We should also consider how our choices will affect others, both now and in the future.

2. How We Decide by Jonah Lehrer

“How We Decide” by Jonah Lehrer is a book about the workings of the human brain, specifically how it makes decisions.

The book discusses different decision-making strategies and offers insights into how the brain processes information.

It also includes case studies of people who have made notable decisions, such as Steve Jobs and Bill Gates.

The first part of the book examines how the brain takes in information and decides what to focus on.

Lehrer argues that the brain is constantly filtering out irrelevant information in order to focus on what’s important.

He cites several studies demonstrating how the brain can quickly process large amounts of data.

For example, one study showed that people can accurately predict the outcome of a soccer game after seeing just five seconds of footage.

Lehrer also discusses how the brain deals with uncertainty.

He argues that the brain is constantly trying to calculate probabilities and make predictions.

This helps to reduce uncertainty and allows the brain to make better decisions.

The second part of the book looks at different decision-making strategies.

Lehrer discusses two main strategies: deliberative and intuitive.

The deliberative strategy is based on reason and analysis, while the intuitive strategy relies on instinct and gut feelings.

Lehrer argues that both strategies are necessary, and that neither one is inherently better than the other.

He also discusses the role of emotions in decision-making, suggesting that emotions play an important role in helping us make quick, instinctive decisions.

However, he notes that emotions can also lead to irrational decisions if they’re not tempered by reason.

The final part of the book looks at some famous cases of decision-making.

Lehrer discusses Steve Jobs’ decision to drop out of college, Bill Gates’ decision to start Microsoft, and General Stanley McChrystal’s decision to implement a counterinsurgency strategy in Afghanistan.

Each case provides unique insights into how different factors (such as intuition, emotion, and reason) can affect decision-making.

3. The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less by Barry Schwartz

The Paradox of Choice discusses the negative effects that too much choice can have on people.

Schwartz argues that too many choices can lead to anxiety, paralysis, and dissatisfaction.

He provides a number of examples to illustrate his point, including the decision to go to college, the number of brands of toothpaste available in modern society, and the variety of products available at grocery stores.

Schwartz suggests that people are overwhelmed by the amount of choice they are faced with and that this can lead to them making poor decisions.

He also argues that having too many choices can make people unhappy because it increases the chances that they will not be able to find a product or service that meets their needs.

Schwartz recommends that people limit the number of choices they are faced with whenever possible in order to reduce the negative effects that too much choice can have on them.

4. Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths

In Algorithms to Live By, Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths cover the topic of how computer science can be applied to human decision making.

The book is written in a way that is easy to understand for a general audience, and it provides many practical examples we can utilize.

One of the main topics covered in the book is the idea of bounded rationality, which is the idea that humans are not able to make perfect decisions due to limited time and resources.

This concept is often explored in computer science through algorithms, which are designed to help make the best possible decision given a set of constraints.

The book also explores the concept of probability and how it can be used to help with decision-making.

For example, probability can be used to calculate the chances of an event occurring, which can then be used to make better choices.

Overall, this book provides a useful alternative look at the subject and covers everything, from the choices we make about what food to eat, to figuring out how likely it is that a particular event will occur.

5. Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein

Nudge is a book about how people make decisions and how those decisions can be influenced.

The book explores the idea of libertarian paternalism, which is the idea that it is possible to help people make better decisions without taking away their freedom.

The authors argue that many people make poor decisions because they are not aware of the options available to them or because they do not have the information they need to make a good decision.

They claim that it is possible to help people make better decisions by providing them with information and by making it easier for them to choose the right option.

The book discusses a number of different ways that people can be nudged in the right direction.

One example is the use of default settings.

The authors argue that it is often easier for people to do nothing than to take action, so it is important to make it easy for them to do the right thing.

Another example is the use of simple messages.

The authors claim that simple messages are more likely to be effective than complex messages, and that people are more likely to act on a message if it is easy to understand.

The book also explores the idea of framing, which is the way in which information is presented.

The authors suggest that people are more likely to respond positively to information if it is framed in a positive way.

They also argue that people are more likely to take action if given a choice rather than told what to do.

Summary: Making the Right Choice

Decision making is a crucial skill to learn in order to be successful in life.

There are a plethora of different techniques one can use to make better decisions, whether it is for personal or professional purposes.

The five books mentioned in this article provide excellent introductions to the topic of decision making and how to improve one’s skills in this area.

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The 10 Best Books for Better Decision Making

Make better decisions today

Published on

July 8, 2019

During my high school years, I was an avid reader. Then, I got busy and I stopped reading when I started college and had a part-time job on the side. Right about the time I started this blog, I started to pick up the habit of reading again.

The first book read is a long, thick book called Awaken The Giant Within by Tony Robbins . In the book, one particular idea struck me:

Every decision we make is going to shape our lives. And therefore, every outcome we have starts with a single decision we made.

From then on, I paid exceptionally close attention to the decisions I made. To be honest, I’ve made more bad decisions than good ones, but slowly, I’ve gotten better at it. The best way to change your life is by changing your decision making — regardless of however big or small the decision may be.

Decision-making is a skill everyone can learn. I even went as far as claiming that it’s critically important to be a good decision-maker than a highly productive person.

As always, I pick up most of what I know from books: the mental frameworks of successful people, the fundamental principles of human psychology, decision-making strategies and tactics, and more.

In this article, I’m going to share with you 10 books I highly recommend to help you get better at decision-making.

1. Principles by Ray Dalio

Principles is a book packed with insight and wisdom from Ray Dalio. For anyone who doesn’t know yet, Ray Dalio is the Founder, CEO of Bridgewater Associates, a Connecticut based Hedge Fund with over $160 billion under management. In Dalio’s words, principles are fundamental truths that serve as the foundations for behavior that get you what you want out of life. They can be applied again and again in similar situations to help you achieve your goals.

To get what you want in life, you should develop your own set of principles that inform your decision-making process. And for any group or organization to function well, its work principles must be aligned with its members’ life principles.

2. Smart Choices by John S. Hammond, Ralph L. Keeney, and Howard Raiffa

Unlike big ideas and principles that focus on the organizational level, Smart Choices is a book that comes with decision-making strategies and formulas for individuals. The book covers how you can make better decisions, especially for the important aspects of your life like buying a house or changing your career.

The authors suggest we look at a decision from these nine elements: Problem, Objectives, Alternatives, Consequences, Tradeoffs — coined as PrOACT. You might not need to define all the elements for some smaller choices (like what to eat for dinner), but the thoughts that go into it will definitely help in making larger decisions in life.

3. Decisive by Chip and Dan Heath

In short, Decisive gives you a 4-step approach to make better decisions in your life and career. The ideas and insights in the book are backed by extended studies of the available literature and research on the topic.

In the book, Chip and Dan Heath introduce a 4-step decision-making process called WRAP: 1) Widen your options, 2) Reality-test your assumptions, 3)Attain distance before deciding, and 4) Prepare to be wrong.

The book also covers some of my favorite concepts, like evaluating opportunity costs, running experiments to validate your hypothesis, and broadening your perspectives and focus on your objectives.

4. Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Daniel Kahneman is an Israeli-American psychologist who was awarded the 2002 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences. The core idea of his book, Thinking Fast and Slow , is about the two systems — one conscious and one automatic — in our brains that are constantly fighting over control of our behaviors.

These two systems are both important to us, but unfortunately, they don’t always work together perfectly. This leads to errors in memory, judgment, and decisions. Kahneman then teaches us how to deal with these errors with research and fact-backed strategies.

5. Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely

When it comes to making important decisions like deciding what things are worth to us, how we view the world, and even how we approach our long-term goals; we try to get as rational as possible and often believe that we are. However, the truth is that we may not be.

In Predictably Irrational , Dan Ariely explains the hidden forces that drive our decision-making, which can turn out to be far less rational than we think. He then provides strategies and tips on how to make better choices especially on money, social interactions, and happiness.

6. Blink by Malcolm Gladwell

Gladwell’s books are never easy reads. However, the information in Blink got my attention in a big way. The book covers ideas, research, and stories about our unconscious mind and snap judgments. Snap judgments are undervalued by the majority of us because it is invisible, frugal, and out of our conscious awareness. But it’s highly valuable—or destructive—because there are times when we have to make decisions under fast-moving, high-pressure situations. Just like our conscious mind, it can be trained, with practice and be framed, with the manipulation of our environment

7. The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz

I’ve watched Barry Schwartz’s TED talks for countless times and even wrote about the Paradox of Choice here in this blog . I truly believe his message includes important concepts that everyone in modern society should learn.

In the book The Paradox of Choice , Barry Schwartz argues that the freedom of choice we have today is the root of many people living an unhappy and miserable life. The book shows you how the vast choices you have today make you frustrated and more likely to make poor decisions.

Even if you’ve made the best choice, you’re more likely to be unhappy simply with the presence of other unforeseen alternatives. The author then moves forward to provide concrete tips to ease the burden created by this paradox.

8. Yes or No by Spencer Johnson

I once read Who Moved My Cheese and The Present by Spencer Johnson, and loved both of them (I even bought them as gifts for family and friends). Like those two books, Yes or No is another thought-provoking story about a young man who embarks on a hiking trip with a group.

They use the hike to reflect on the decisions they have made, and then analyze how they could make better decisions in the future. One of the best ideas I learned from the book is this:

Our poor decisions were based on illusions we believed at the time, and our better decisions, on realities we recognized in time.

9. The Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli

If you love reading about psychology and human behavior, The Art of Thinking Clearly is the book you don’t want to miss. This book covers 99 common cognitive errors we’re facing in everyday life. A paragraph in it that is best at summing up the book is this:

Thinking is in itself not pure, but prone to error. This affects everyone. Even highly intelligent people fall into the same cognitive traps . Likewise, errors are not randomly distributed. We systematically err in the same direction. That makes our mistakes predictable, and this is fixable to a degree—but only to a degree, never completely.

10. Mastery by Robert Greene

By no means is Mastery a book written solely to help you make better decisions. Instead, the book covers ideas and strategies on sculpting your mind and your life to become the best at what you do. To become the best at what you do, you need to go through three different stages: Apprenticeship, Active-Creative, and finally, Mastery. However, the strategies and tips in attaining mastery through each stage will directly transform your decision-making ability.

In the Apprenticeship stage, you absorb everything you can about the craft and develop social intelligence in the process. During the Active-Creative stage, you create breakthrough by combining the tensions and insights. And during the final stage, you fuse your intuitive thinking with the rational mind to attain mastery.

Good decision-making is always worth your time and effort

Like mastering any skills in life, developing good decision-making skills takes time. But the ability to making good decisions will hugely transform your life outcome. I’ve just laid out a list of books you need to read if you want to learn more about decision-making.

The next step is truly on you. Making the decision to read them and start implementing the knowledge you gain from them, in your work and life can be monumentally beneficial to you for the rest of your life.

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The Best 5 Books on Decision Making (in 2024)

If you are looking for the best decision-making books you can read, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we will cover the top 5 decision-making books that you can read to improve your decision-making skills. I have personally read each book and can recommend them.

The Best 5 Books on Decision Making

1. decisive: how to make better choices in life and work by dan heath and chip heath.

Decisive is one of my favorite books to read on decision-making. It’s easy to read and super informative.

In the book, the authors discuss some common errors we make when we make decisions and then give us a method we can follow to make better decisions.

They propose the WRAP method:

• Widen your options
• Reality-test your assumptions
• Attain distance before deciding
• Prepare to be wrong

If you want an easy-to-read yet super-informative book on decision-making, this one is great.

You can get the book here on Amazon or read our summary of the book here .

(Note: The links for Amazon are affiliate links. Thanks!)

Grow as a leader and help create a world where great leadership is the norm.   Join Leadership+ Today for Free .

2. Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don’t Have All the Facts by Annie Duke

Thinking in Bets teaches us how to think about decisions differently.

Too often we base the “rightness” of our decisions based on the outcome (instead of the process we took to make the decision) and we think of our decisions as “right or wrong”.

Instead, Duke says we should think about decisions such as poker. Everything about poker is probability. Even bad hands win sometimes, and the best hands can lose as well.

What’s important is that you make the best decision based on what you have and know. A good decision is not based on if you won, but on the process you used to make that decision.

If we do this with our everyday decisions , we make better decisions not only as individuals but as groups. We also become more welcoming of input and disagreement.

If you want to improve the way you and your group think about decision-making (and help avoid poor choices), this book is for you.

You can get the book here on Amazon or read the summary of the book here .

3. Smart Choices: A Practical Guide to Making Better Decisions by John S. Hammond, Ralph L. Keeney, and Howard Raiffa

Smart Choices is about, as you can guess, what the name says – making smart choices.

To do that, they give a step-by-step detailed methodology to follow to make better decisions . Their formula is called PROACT – with a URL at the end. It stands for the following:

• Problem – work on the right decision problem
• Objective – specify your objectives
• Alternatives – create imaginative alternatives
• Consequences – understand the consequences
• Tradeoffs – grapple with your tradeoffs
• Uncertainty – clarify your uncertainties
• Risk Tolerance – think hard about your risk tolerance
• Linked Decisions – consider linked decisions

If you want a detailed step-by-step formula for making better decisions, this would be a great book for you.

You can get the book here on Amazon .

Read More: 6 Simple Steps on How to make Great Decisions (In Life and Business)

4. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Thinking, Fast and Slow is an amazing book – and a long one.

It was written by Daniel Kahneman, who is a renowned psychologist and winner of the Nobel Prize in Economics.

It goes into detail about how our brain works, the two “systems” of our brain, and the errors we are prone to.

In fact, there are a couple of sections that struck me with me saying “That’s me there!”, though I could recognize my brain functioning in the way he said in other sections as well.

If you are looking for a detailed, informative (and enjoyable) book on how our brain works, the errors we are prone to, and some ways to overcome them, I highly recommend this book to you.

Read More: 29 Decision-Making Mistakes You Are Making (And Don’t Even Know It)

5. The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz

The Paradox of Choice is another book I highly enjoyed reading. The main premise is this – we are in a world saturated with more and more choices – and it’s hurting us instead of helping us.

When we have so many choices, not only does it make it harder to make a choice, but it makes the choice we make less satisfying.

We can also get into a trap of always seeking out “the best” in a world of choices that we constantly live with regret and what could have been or wondering if there is something better we missed out on.

If you want to learn how to be more satisfied in life and the choices you make (and the dangers of and ways to overcome too many choices), this is a good book for you.

You can get it here on Amazon .

If that’s not enough for you, here are some honorable mentions:

6. nudge: improving decisions about health, wealth, and happiness by richard h. thaler and cass r. sunstein.

Nudge is about how the way we present or offer options can affect decisions.

No choice is ever presented in a neutral way. Knowing this, as well as our biases and tendencies, we then can present choices in a way that promotes better decisions, both to ourselves and others.

An example the authors give is this: the way food is laid out in a school cafeteria.

Whatever food is put first out front is the food that is purchased the most. So do you put out the food that is the healthiest, that will bring the most profit, or what?

They suggest that we present choices in a way that promotes better health and wellness to others. You still give the choice, but if you can never be truly neutral in offering choices, you offer it in a way that best benefits others.

Interested in learning more? You can get the book here on Amazon .

7. Why Not?: How to Use Everyday Ingenuity to Solve Problems Big And Small by Barry Nalebuff and Ian Ayres

Why Not? As the title suggests, is about how to come to use everyday ingenuity to solve problems.

Most “original” ideas come from 2 basic methods: problems in search of solutions, and solutions in search of problems.

The authors give different methods and tools you can use to help solve problems, such as:

• Asking what Croesus would do
• Feeling others pain
• Looking where else it would work
• And flipping it

To learn more, check out the book here on Amazon .

8. Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths

Algorithms to Live By is a neat book because it uses solutions to computer problems and applies them to us as humans.

There are many similar problems, such as what tasks to focus on first and how to sort and organize. The book uses computer science solutions to tell us when to stop searching and choose a house or parking spot, how to balance sticking with what’s familiar and trying what’s new, and more.

To check out the book, you can find it on Amazon here .

9. How We Decide by Jonah Lehrer

What I remember most from this book is how he talks about the importance of emotions in decisions.

Many times it’s spouted we need to take emotion out of the decision and use only logic and rationality – but evidence has shown that makes us make worse decisions.

In fact, one example he gave is the fact that psychopaths feel less emotion – which can lead to detrimental actions.

Lehrer goes over how our mind makes decisions and how we can use that to make better decisions.

You can check out the book here on Amazon .

For a deeper dive into how to make better decisions, check out these articles:

21 Decision-Making Techniques You Need to Start Using Right Now 29 Decision-Making Mistakes You Are Making (And Don’t Even Know It)

Which Decision-Making Book Will You Choose?

As you can see, there are a variety of excellent books on decision-making, each with a different twist. I encourage you to check them out.

If you are unsure of where to start or are indecisive, start with Decisive ( get the pun? 🙂 ).

I also recommend you check out our recommended books on problem-solving , as problem-solving is often tied to decision-making.

Now to you: Have you read any of these books? What were your thoughts on them? Did I miss any great books?

About The Author

Thomas R. Harris

Related posts, book summary: eat that frog by brian tracy.

Book Summary: Time Management from the Inside Out by Julie Morgenstern

The 7 Best Time Management Books (In 2024)

8 thoughts on “The Best 5 Books on Decision Making (in 2024)”

I’m having a hard time deciding which book to go buy!

Haha. It is a tough decision!

Decisive, Thinking Fast & Slow in my cart already! 🙂

Awesome! Those are great reads.

Try also this excellent book on decision making. “Think Again ! – less strife happy life” by Lloyd Baggott. Lloyd is a retired lawyer whose career involved making important decisions in varied contexts.

Thanks for the suggestion. I’ll check it out!

I asked chat gpt about the decision-making book and also which keeps you engaged, it suggested me 1. “The Power of Habits” by Charles Duhigg. The other one was * Decisive: How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work (but it is not quite engaging I guess)

The Power of Habits is a great book about habits and creating or changing habits, but it doesn’t really focus on decision making (at least from what I recall). Decisive and Thinking in Bets were both engaging for me, from what I remember. Thanks for sharing that.

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Nonfiction Books » Economics Books » Behavioural Economics

The best books on decision-making, recommended by jonah lehrer.

How We Decide by Jonah Lehrer

Behavioural economics is a very new field, but its insights have huge ramifications for our daily lives, including life-or-death decisions. Here, author Jonah Lehrer talks us through some of its most important works.

Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds by Charles Mackay

Judgment under Uncertainty: Heuristics and Biases by Daniel Kahneman & Paul Slovic and Amos Tversky

How We Know What Isn’t So by Thomas Gilovich

The Winner’s Curse by Richard Thaler

Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely

1 Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds by Charles Mackay

2 judgment under uncertainty: heuristics and biases by daniel kahneman & paul slovic and amos tversky, 3 how we know what isn’t so by thomas gilovich, 4 the winner’s curse by richard thaler, 5 predictably irrational by dan ariely.

Y our first book is Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds by Scottish journalist and songwriter Charles Mackay, first published in 1841.

But is it that irrational? Say with Tulipmania, even if you know that one tulip bulb isn’t worth 10 florins, as long as you can sell it for 20 florins, it’s worth it – even if you know it’s ridiculous.

Yes, and what he highlights is that these are historical moments when financial markets basically look like Ponzi schemes. They work great, until they no longer work, and then they just collapse, like a house of cards. So they work well for all the people who are selling tulips for 20 florins or 30 florins, but all of sudden, for whatever reason, when they reach 101, the market disappears. And you realise you’re paying insane amounts of money for a flower. And there’s always the moment, when you read these stories, where looking back on it, it seems so absurd. And yet you know that for every person trading tulips or investing in the South Sea Bubble it felt like a very prudent investment. It felt irrational not to invest in tulips. Just like the smartest minds on Wall Street thought that it was irrational and irresponsible to not invest in mortgage-backed securities.

“The history of finance is really the history of financial bubbles.”

So this book gives you a hint of what it must have felt like on the inside, to be in the grip of this irrational exuberance – just like when Cisco was the most valuable company in the world in 2000, or when dotcom stocks that had no business plan (or a barely intelligible business plan) and never turned a profit were incredibly valuable companies. And, of course, as soon as the bubble ends, we see it for what it was – a completely irrational burst of exuberance.

And Mackay also covers topics like witchcraft and witch-hunts and alchemy?

So, the next book you chose, Judgment under Uncertainty , is by, amongst others, Daniel Kahneman, the psychologist who won the Nobel prize for economics, despite, he says, never taking an economics course.

This is one of the most influential books in modern economics. But first of all, it’s just this list of incredibly clever experiments. They don’t use any fancy tools, there’s no microscopes or telescopes involved: Kahneman and Tversky just asked their undergraduates hypothetical questions.

So how much would a student want in return if they were betting $1 on the flip of a coin? You can’t get a simpler question to ask in a science experiment, and yet that very simple question eventually led to a thing called ‘loss aversion’. And this is now viewed as a very important phenomenon – with implications for everything from how taxi-cab drivers think, to how people act when they evaluate their stock portfolio. So what I like about this is book is how they took these very simple protocols – really just idle conversation with students – and transformed them into the first really hard proof that people consistently violate the expectation of rational agents. That we don’t think like homo economicus at all. That our behaviour, our responses to very simple questions, don’t look at all like what a rational person would do – there are these deep inconsistent flaws in the human mind. It makes no rational sense to have such a strong loss aversion, or to be so vulnerable to any one of the long list of biases that Kahneman and Tversky demonstrated. But across all the big-end, large sample sizes, this is the way people responded. So it’s an incredibly powerful piece of work that really showed that people aren’t just occasionally irrational, they don’t just act stupidly when they’re in the midst of a bubble. Irrationality is embedded deep into our operating system.

But this is quite an academic book?

Yes it’s a very academic book. But it happens to be about as accessible as a bunch of academic papers can be, simply because it’s just fun to go through and do the hypotheticals – these questions they’re giving to undergraduates at Hebrew University in the mid-1970s – and then testing yourself against them. And the collection does a very nice job of mixing together the original papers with subsequent results in the field of economics which then take, for example, loss aversion and apply it to the real world. So you can see how this actively influences the decisions of mutual fund managers, with very important negative consequences. And this book not only pointed out this core irrationality, but really changed the economics field as well.

I think the Nobel prize speaks of the importance of the work to economics. But doesn’t it show these biases affecting all sorts of things, including potentially life-and-death medical decisions?

That’s actually an offshoot of loss aversion. So there are different ways of framing a question, and one way to demonstrate loss aversion is that the ultimate loss is, of course, death. So if you go to doctors and ask them to choose between options, and one, the riskier option, is framed in terms of saving people, and the other in terms of people dying, most doctors will risk everything on the all-or-nothing approach. Even when it’s the exact same numbers, if it’s framed in terms of death, people are twice as likely to avoid that option. Because framing the question in terms of losses, making us even think about death, is so ugly, it feels so bad to us, that the person thinks, ‘Oh I’ve got to go for the risky approach.’ And Kahneman and Tversky argue that it does indeed affect the way doctors discuss, for instance, cancer treatments. You can get doctors who work in cancer wards to think very differently about treatment if you frame it as a five per cent chance of surviving, or a 95 per cent chance of dying.

And, as a patient dealing with cancer, you often do have to make decisions based on statistics you are given – doctors say there’s a five per cent chance of this if you do that, or a 10 per cent chance of that if you don’t do this, and it’s all very confusing.

Your next choice is How We Know What Isn’t So by psychologist Thomas Gilovich.

This is a really smart book and the reason I put it on there is that it really invented the genre of science non-fiction. Gilovich did some very interesting work (actually with Tversky when he was still at Cornell) including on the ‘hot hand’ effect. This refers to basketball when players think they have a ‘hot hand’. They make three shots in a row: fans think they’re in the zone. But actually the hot hand is a cognitive illusion. After making a couple of shots in a row, players actually get over-confident and become less likely to make their next shot. So the book is filled with case studies like that, clever demonstrations that so much of what we perceive in the world, and then use to act on, is actually based on cognitive illusions. So this book is very accessible. It was very popular and demonstrated for the first time that people love to learn about their biases. There’s really something fascinating about reading your own user manual and going, ‘Oh that’s what made me do that stupid thing all the time!’

What kind of cognitive illusions does it home in on?

What about the next book, by economist Richard Thaler – what is The Winner’s Curse ?

The Winner’s Curse is something I think about every time I go on E-bay. It was probably first demonstrated by Richard Thaler, who is a very influential behavioural economist at the University of Chicago. We’ve got these economic models, but the problem is these models are based on a profoundly inaccurate view of human nature. So if we get some real data showing us that people aren’t rational agents, shouldn’t we change our economic theories? Again, it’s a pretty academic book, for the most part a collection of papers, but it is fascinating to watch ideas in psychology infecting other fields, like economics, and seeing that infection for the first time in Thaler’s work.

So The Winner’s Curse is all about auctions and how people will often over-bid in blind auctions. So if you’re bidding for a free-agent baseball player, or bidding for oil rights, or Bill Clinton’s autobiography, all of these are blind auctions, and people dramatically overpaid – which is a recurring feature of blind auctions. Thaler is trying to take all these canonical examples/problems/situations in economics and saying, ‘Well now we’ve got more accurate models of what people actually do, now we don’t have to rely on these hypotheticals, shouldn’t we revise our models?’

And are other economists now doing that also?

There is still plenty of resistance, some of it well justified. People are saying: ‘Look it’s not like psychology is a very accurate model – the mind remains a very mysterious thing.’ So you don’t want to simply tether yourself to something that’s a work in progress. Which I think is a valid response. I think there are some economists who are very worried about turning economics into a subsidiary of psychology, which is what behavioural economics is: these are economists who use the tools of psychology, use psychological paradigms and combine them with economic models. So it really is a branch of psychology.

These are valid worries and concerns but, that said, it’s hard to deny that behavioural economics and neural economics, these two branches of economics that are trying to merge with neuroscience and psychology, are both very intellectual fields at the moment. They’re everywhere, in the Obama administration, there’s now some bigwigs at the University of Chicago.

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This is a booming field, and given where we are right now, trying to recover from a financial apocalypse – yet another financial bubble – I think it only makes sense to once again try to understand what makes us tick. If we have learned anything from the sub-prime mortgage mess it’s that we have yet another reminder that we really aren’t rational agents. When we assume people are rational agents, we are led astray. To the extent that future regulations will be effective, it’s to the extent that they can accurately look at all these irrationalities and anticipate them and take them into account.

So can you give me an example?

One example that Thaler uses is the ultimatum game. It’s a very simple game: you give person A $10 and say, ‘OK you can divide it any way you want to, and the only catch is that if person B rejects your offer, then nobody gets anything.’ So economists, with their selfish rational models, would say the way person A should behave is to keep $9 and give person B $1. Person B might think that is unfair, but if they reject it, they won’t even get $1, so rejecting it would be irrational spite. So what’s supposed to happen according to homo economicus is this very rational split.

Your last book is called Predictably Irrational .

This is a very popular book by Dan Ariely, a really smart behavioural economist who is now at Duke (he was at MIT). The reason it’s important is that it really gives you a sense of all the different ways in which behavioural economics is flowering. This is a field that is just 20 years old, which by academic standards is very new. Dan Ariely is a very a creative guy. He was able to take this basic idea, that humans are irrational, and mine it in a million different directions. For example, one of my favourite studies is brand-name versus generic aspirin. He shows that for whatever reason we’ve got his heuristic, this expectation, that we get what we pay for. And when you give people more expensive things, even if they’re the exact same thing, people actually get more pleasure out of the more expensive product, they find the more expensive version more useful. And brand-name versus generic aspirin is a good way of showing this. You have the exact same active ingredient, no difference between the product, the pills are identical. And yet the brand-name aspirin is much more effective at curing our headaches.

The other really important feature of his work – and this is an increasing theme of behavioural economics – is the importance of contextual conditions in shaping how people think. So one of the real flaws in the rational agent model was that people are always rational, it doesn’t matter what the situation is, people always act in this very predictable way.

We’re actually not that consistent, so that even when it comes to our irrationality, we’re not entirely predictable. So the title of the book is actually sort of misleading. Very small changes in context and circumstances can dramatically alter our behaviour and our response to incentives. In one situation, in one kind of classroom, we won’t cheat and we’ll all seem like very honest souls. Tweak a few variables, make us a little bit more anonymous, and all of a sudden we’re cheating on everything. So we’re just beginning to understand how complicated and subtle our decision-making machinery is.

So where does all this get us?

That’s the million-dollar question. The important thing to note is that it gets you nowhere, unless you’re self-aware. You can know about all the biases in the world, and, unless you are able to take them into account when making a decision, it’ll be useless knowledge. That’s the crucial ingredient, what psychologists refer to as meta-cognition – thinking about thinking. Unless you practise meta-cognition, unless you think about loss aversion when you’re evaluating your own stock portfolio, or unless you worry about this bias for more expensive things when shopping for aspirin, you’re going to make the same mistakes as everybody else.

Is that what your book is about? I saw you mentioned on your blog that you are a very indecisive person and that’s what prompted you to write a book on decision-making.

I’m pathologically indecisive as a matter of fact. My book was definitely an attempt to apply this knowledge, first of all to try and put it in the context of modern neuroscience, but also to say, ‘Well, great, people are stupid, we do all sorts of stupid things, we’re incredibly irrational, we pay a year’s salary for a black tulip. So what do we do now? How do we apply this in order to make better decisions?’ It’s a larger societal question too. As we develop better models of how humans actually behave, we can actually begin to explain how we choose which stocks we buy, what we buy in the supermarket. And then the important question becomes, ‘Great, we have these lovely models! But how do I actually use this knowledge to make better decisions? How do we turn behavioural economics into an applied science? So that next time we structure regulation we won’t be quite so tempted by subprime mortgages…’ Those are the really important questions.

But at this point, given the science is so new, the best advice someone can give you is, ‘Look, what you really need to do is to learn this list of biases, these flaws, these hardwired mistakes, and begin to take them into account in your own life when you’re making decisions.’ Because that’s the only way we’re going to be able to avoid them.

April 9, 2010

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Jonah Lehrer

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Books on Choices In Life: 2024 Update of the Most Influential Titles

Are you at a crossroads in your life, trying to make tough decisions? Look no further than these 20 best books about choices in life to gain wisdom, insight, and guidance. Whether you’re facing career dilemmas, relationship struggles, or simply seeking personal growth, these books offer valuable perspectives and practical advice. From renowned authors to hidden gems, this curated list will inspire, challenge, and empower you to navigate life’s choices with confidence. Dive into the world of possibilities with these impactful books on choices in life.

• 2 The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
• 3 The Alchemist
• 4 Man’s Search for Meaning
• 5 The Road Less Traveled
• 6 The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less
• 7 The Power of Now
• 8 The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
• 9 The Art of Happiness
• 10 The Four Agreements
• 11 The Happiness Project
• 12 The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
• 13 The Power of Habit
• 14 The War of Art
• 15 Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
• 16 Daring Greatly
• 17 Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
• 18 The Gifts of Imperfection
• 19 The Obstacle Is the Way
• 20 The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth
• 21 Conclusion

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by Tara Westover

Educated by Tara Westover is an extraordinary memoir about the author’s journey from growing up in a strict, isolated family in rural Idaho to pursuing education and finding her own path in the world. The book delves into the power of education and the impact of choices in life, as Westover grapples with the consequences of her decision to seek knowledge and independence outside of the environment she was raised in. Through powerful storytelling, she explores the complexities of family dynamics, the struggle for autonomy, and the resilience of the human spirit. This compelling and thought-provoking memoir offers a profound reflection on the importance of self-discovery and the ability to shape one’s own destiny, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a book about choices in life.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

By mark manson.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson is a candid and refreshing take on the self-help genre. This book about choices in life challenges the conventional wisdom of positivity and encourages readers to embrace their flaws and accept the inevitable struggles of life. With a no-nonsense approach, Manson explores the importance of prioritizing what truly matters and letting go of the trivial things that don’t contribute to our happiness. Through real-life examples and practical advice, the book delves into the concept of personal responsibility and the power of choosing where to invest our time and energy. It’s a thought-provoking and humorous read that will inspire readers to reassess their values and make more meaningful choices in life.

The Alchemist

By paulo coelho.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a captivating tale about the journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of one’s dreams. This book about choices in life follows the story of Santiago, a young Andalusian shepherd, as he embarks on a quest to find a hidden treasure in the Egyptian pyramids. Along the way, Santiago encounters various characters who impart timeless wisdom and guidance, leading him to realize the importance of following his heart and listening to his intuition. The novel delves into the themes of destiny, personal legend, and the power of choices in life, as Santiago learns to overcome obstacles and embrace the unknown in order to fulfill his purpose. The Alchemist is a thought-provoking and inspiring narrative that encourages readers to reflect on their own journeys and the choices they make in pursuit of their dreams.

Man’s Search for Meaning

By viktor e. frankl.

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl is a profound exploration of the human experience and the power of resilience. The book delves into the author’s personal experiences as a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, offering a unique perspective on the human capacity to find meaning in the face of unimaginable suffering. Frankl argues that individuals have the freedom to choose their responses to life’s challenges, and that finding purpose and meaning is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Through poignant anecdotes and psychological insights, the book serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, hope, and the choices we make in shaping our lives. It is a thought-provoking and inspiring read that encourages readers to reflect on their own choices in life and the impact they have on their well-being.

The Road Less Traveled

By m. scott peck.

The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck is a thought-provoking book on choices in life. It explores the importance of discipline, love, and spiritual growth in navigating life’s challenges. Peck encourages readers to take the road less traveled, to make difficult choices and confront their problems head-on in order to achieve personal growth and fulfillment. Through insightful anecdotes and psychological insights, the book challenges conventional wisdom and inspires readers to embrace responsibility and self-awareness. With its timeless wisdom and practical advice, The Road Less Traveled is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers seeking guidance and enlightenment in their journey of self-discovery and personal development.

The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less

By barry schwartz.

The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less by Barry Schwartz is a thought-provoking book on the overwhelming amount of options we face in our daily lives. Schwartz explores the idea that having too many choices can lead to anxiety, dissatisfaction, and decision paralysis. He argues that while choices in life can be empowering, too much choice can actually hinder our ability to make decisions and lead to discontentment. Through real-life examples and psychological research, Schwartz uncovers the impact of having an abundance of choices in life and offers practical advice on how to navigate and simplify decision-making in a world of endless options. This book about choices in life is a compelling and eye-opening read, shedding light on the complexities of decision-making in the modern world.

The Power of Now

By eckhart tolle.

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle is a transformative book about embracing the present moment and finding inner peace. Tolle discusses the importance of mindfulness and the impact of living in the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. The book delves into the concept of ego and how it can hinder our ability to find true happiness and fulfillment. Tolle encourages readers to let go of negative thought patterns and embrace the power of now, allowing them to make conscious and positive choices in life. This profound book offers practical guidance on how to live a more fulfilling and purposeful life, and it is a must-read for anyone seeking to find inner peace and happiness.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

By stephen r. covey.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey is a transformative book about making wise choices in life. Covey presents a holistic approach to personal and professional effectiveness, focusing on principles that can empower individuals to achieve their goals. The book is structured around the idea of moving from dependence to independence to interdependence, with each habit building upon the last. Covey emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and making proactive decisions, rather than being reactive to external forces. Through practical advice and real-life examples, Covey guides readers on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Whether you’re seeking to improve your personal relationships, professional success, or overall well-being, this choices in life book offers invaluable insights and strategies for living a more fulfilling and impactful life.

The Art of Happiness

By dalai lama xiv and howard c. cutler.

The Art of Happiness is a profound exploration of the Dalai Lama’s wisdom on finding joy and contentment in life, co-authored with psychiatrist Howard C. Cutler. In this insightful book on choices in life, the Dalai Lama shares his philosophy on how to achieve lasting happiness through compassion, mindfulness, and inner peace. The book about choices in life delves into the importance of cultivating positive emotions, overcoming negative thoughts, and finding purpose and meaning in everyday experiences. Through engaging conversations and practical advice, the authors offer valuable insights into the human psyche and the pursuit of happiness. The Art of Happiness is a timeless guide for those seeking to make mindful choices in life and cultivate a more fulfilling and joyful existence.

The Four Agreements

By don miguel ruiz.

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz is a transformative book on choices in life, offering practical wisdom for living a more fulfilling and authentic life. The author shares ancient Toltec wisdom and presents four powerful agreements that can help individuals break free from self-limiting beliefs and create a new way of living. This book about choices in life encourages readers to be impeccable with their words, not to take things personally, not to make assumptions, and to always do their best. These agreements provide a framework for personal freedom, happiness, and love, and offer a pathway to personal transformation and spiritual growth. The Four Agreements is a profound and enlightening guide that empowers readers to make conscious and positive choices in life, leading to greater fulfillment and inner peace.

The Happiness Project

By gretchen rubin.

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin is a captivating book about making positive changes and finding joy in everyday life. The author embarks on a year-long journey to improve her happiness by focusing on various aspects such as relationships, work, and personal growth. Through engaging anecdotes and practical advice, she explores the importance of making thoughtful decisions and taking control of one’s own happiness. The book offers valuable insights and strategies for readers to make conscious choices in life that lead to greater fulfillment and contentment. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance on how to cultivate happiness in their own lives.

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up

By marie kondo.

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo is a transformative book about choices in life. Kondo, a renowned organizing consultant, presents her KonMari Method, which encourages readers to declutter their homes by keeping only the items that spark joy. Through this process, Kondo argues that individuals can not only create a more organized living space, but also cultivate a deeper awareness of their values and priorities. By focusing on what truly brings happiness and fulfillment, Kondo’s book offers readers a new perspective on the choices in life they make every day. The book provides practical tips and insightful guidance for those seeking to simplify their surroundings and make intentional choices in life that align with their authentic selves.

The Power of Habit

By charles duhigg.

The Power of Habit is a captivating book on choices in life, exploring the science behind our habits and how they shape our lives. Charles Duhigg delves into the neurological mechanisms of habit formation, the impact of habits on individual and organizational success, and the power of choice in breaking and forming habits. Through engaging real-life stories and insightful research, Duhigg demonstrates how understanding and harnessing the power of habits can lead to transformational change in our personal and professional lives. This book about choices in life offers practical strategies for identifying and modifying habits, empowering readers to take control of their behavior and achieve their goals. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, business success, or simply a deeper understanding of human behavior, The Power of Habit is an enlightening and empowering read that will leave you inspired to make positive choices in life.

The War of Art

By steven pressfield.

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield is a powerful and insightful book about the challenges we face in pursuing our creative endeavors. Pressfield explores the resistance that often holds us back from achieving our goals, whether they be creative, professional, or personal. He delves into the concept of ‘the artist’s journey’ and the internal battles we must face in order to overcome self-doubt, procrastination, and fear. This book is not just about creativity, but about the choices we make in life and the obstacles we must overcome in order to fulfill our potential. Through Pressfield’s engaging and thought-provoking writing, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the struggles we all face in pursuing our passions and the strategies we can employ to overcome them. The War of Art is a must-read for anyone seeking to break through their personal barriers and achieve their full potential.

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

By elizabeth gilbert.

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert is a book about making creative decisions in life. Gilbert explores the concept of living a creative life and the fear that often accompanies it. She encourages readers to embrace their creativity and pursue their passions, despite the fear of failure or criticism. The book explores the idea that creativity is not just for artists, but for everyone, and offers practical advice and inspiration for anyone seeking to lead a more creative and fulfilling life. Gilbert’s insightful and uplifting approach encourages readers to make bold choices in life and to overcome their fears in order to live a more authentic and fulfilling life. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or simply someone seeking to live a more creative life, this book offers valuable insights and guidance for making courageous choices in life.

Daring Greatly

By brené brown.

Daring Greatly by Brené Brown is a compelling book about the importance of vulnerability and courage in our lives. Brown explores the concept of vulnerability as the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. She emphasizes the value of daring greatly and taking risks in order to live a fulfilling and authentic life. Through her research, storytelling, and personal experiences, Brown challenges readers to embrace vulnerability and develop the courage to make meaningful connections, take on new challenges, and live wholeheartedly. This book on choices in life encourages readers to recognize the power of their choices and the impact they have on their relationships, work, and overall well-being. Daring Greatly is a thought-provoking and empowering read that inspires readers to embrace vulnerability and make brave choices in life.

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

By carol s. dweck.

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck is a transformative book on the power of mindset and its impact on success. Dweck discusses the concept of having a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset, and how these beliefs can shape our choices in life and ultimately determine our success. Through engaging real-life examples and scientific research, the author demonstrates how our mindset can influence our relationships, work, and overall happiness. This book is not just about making choices in life, but about understanding how our mindset shapes those choices and how we can cultivate a growth mindset to achieve our full potential. Mindset is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their true potential and make positive changes in their lives.

The Gifts of Imperfection

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown is a transformative book on the power of embracing vulnerability, courage, and authenticity in our lives. Brown explores the idea that choosing to live wholeheartedly, despite our imperfections and fears, is the key to living a fulfilling and joyful life. Through personal anecdotes, research, and practical advice, she encourages readers to make conscious decisions in life that align with their values and beliefs, rather than succumbing to the pressures of perfectionism and comparison. This book about choices in life challenges readers to let go of the need for approval and validation from others, and to instead cultivate self-compassion and resilience. The Gifts of Imperfection is a powerful reminder that embracing our vulnerabilities and making intentional choices in life can lead to a life of true authenticity and connection.

The Obstacle Is the Way

By ryan holiday.

The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday is a transformative book about choices in life, focusing on the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and its practical application in modern-day challenges. Holiday explores the concept of turning obstacles into opportunities, using real-life examples from history and personal anecdotes to illustrate the power of resilience, resourcefulness, and perseverance. Through insightful storytelling and actionable advice, the book presents a compelling argument for embracing adversity and using it as a catalyst for growth and success. Readers will be inspired to shift their perspective and approach obstacles with a newfound sense of purpose and confidence. Whether facing personal or professional setbacks, this choices in life book offers a refreshing and empowering perspective on overcoming challenges and thriving in the face of adversity.

The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth

The Road Less Traveled is a thought-provoking book on the journey of personal growth and spiritual development. M. Scott Peck, a renowned psychiatrist, explores the complexities of human nature and the importance of making conscious choices in life. The book delves into the psychology of love, traditional values, and the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment. Peck challenges readers to confront their fears, take responsibility for their actions, and embrace the path of self-discovery. Through compelling anecdotes and insightful analysis, the book offers valuable wisdom on navigating the challenges of life and finding true fulfillment. With its timeless wisdom and profound insights, The Road Less Traveled is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of human behavior and the power of personal choice.

In conclusion, these 20 best books about choices in life offer insightful perspectives and valuable lessons on decision-making, personal growth, and navigating life’s challenges. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, guidance, or a fresh outlook, these books are sure to empower and enlighten you as you navigate the complexities of life. Dive into these compelling reads and open your mind to the endless possibilities that come with making deliberate and mindful choices.

Which choices in life book is best?

The best book on choices in life can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

• Educated by Tara Westover ,
• The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson ,
• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho .

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about choices in life?

For those looking to learn about choices in life, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho ,
• Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl ,
• The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck ,
• The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less by Barry Schwartz ,
• The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle ,
• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey ,
• The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama XIV and Howard C. Cutler ,
• The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

These books offer a range of perspectives on choices in life, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books on choices in life?

The best books on choices in life include:

• The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin ,
• The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo ,
• The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less by Barry Schwartz .

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of choices in life are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best choices in life books of all time?

Choosing the best choices in life books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include

• The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz ,
• and The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin .

Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of choices in life and continues to be influential today.

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Books that really help in decision making...

I make emotional decisions and it’s been reeking havoc on my life. I want to make more logical/mental decisions. Any books you know of on how to train your brain to be more logical?

Five Books for People Who Really Love Books

These five titles focus on the many connections we can form with what we read.

My dad likes to fish, and he likes to read books about fishing. My mom is a birder; she reads about birds. There are plenty of books on both subjects, I’ve found, when browsing in a gift-giving mood. These presents don’t just prove I’m familiar with their interests. They’re a way to acknowledge that we read about our pastimes to affirm our identity: Fly-fishers are contemplative sorts who reflect on reflections; birders must cultivate stillness and attention. What we choose to read can be a way of saying: I am this kind of soul.

For my part, I like reading more than I like almost anything else. And so, in the manner of my parents, I like to read books about books . Writers who write about writing, readers who write about reading—these are people I instantly recognize as my kind. We’re people who are always in the middle of a chapter, who start conversations by asking, “What are you reading right now?” For us, a meta-book is like coffee brewed with more coffee. It’s extra-strength literature.

If you really love books, or you want to love them more, I have five recommendations. None of these are traditional literary criticism; they’re not dry or academic. They take all kinds of forms (essay, novel, memoir) and focus on the many connections we can form with what we read. Those relationships might be passionate, obsessive, even borderline inappropriate—and this is what makes the books so lovable. Finishing them will make you want to pick up an old favorite or add several more titles to your to-read list.

U and I , by Nicholson Baker

I can now say that I’ve been reading Baker for more than 20 years, or more than half my life. But I didn’t know that would happen when I found U and I in a college friend’s car, borrowed it, and never returned it. The subject, not the author, appealed to me then—I loved John Updike. And so did Baker, though love is probably not the right word. This book-length essay is not quite, or not merely, an appreciation of Updike; it’s a hilarious confessional “true story” of Baker’s anxieties, ambitions, competitive jealousy, and feelings of inadequacy in the face of Updike’s abundant body of work. It’s rich too, with wonderful observations on reading and writing in general, as in a passage considering how much more affecting a memoir becomes once the author is deceased: “The living are ‘just’ writing about their own lives; the dead are writing about their irretrievable lives , wow wow wow.”

A poem by John Updike: 'Half Moon, Small Cloud'

Dayswork , by Chris Bachelder and Jennifer Habel

I almost prefer to keep certain books on my to-read list forever, where they remain full of magical possibility and cannot disappoint me. Moby-Dick is one of them. What if, God forbid, I chance to read it at the wrong time or in the wrong place and it doesn’t change my life? So I turn to Dayswork instead, which feels like cheating—you get some of the experience of reading Moby-Dick without any of the risk. This very novel novel, written collaboratively by a novelist and a poet who happen to be married, is sort of a sneaky biography of Herman Melville, framed by a meta-narrative about a woman writing a book during lockdown. This narrator delivers a parade of delightful facts and quotes and anecdotes, which she’s been collecting on sticky notes. You could think of it also as a biography of Melville’s most famous novel, which has had its own life after his death and touched so many other lives. Dayswork is fragmentary, digressive, and completely absorbing.

Read: The endless depths of Moby-Dick symbolism

Written Lives , by Javier Marías, translated by Margaret Jull Costa

Marías is one of my favorite novelists, but I only recently encountered this work, a collection of short, dubiously nonfictional biographies in a very specific style. In the prologue, Marías explains that he had edited an anthology of stories by writers so obscure, he was forced to compose their biographical notes using odd, scanty evidence that made it all sound “invented.” It occurred to him that he could do the same thing for authors much more famous (Henry James, Thomas Mann, Djuna Barnes), treating “well-known literary figures as if they were fictional characters, which may well be how all writers, whether famous or obscure, would secretly like to be treated,” he explains. The result is marvelously irreverent, packed with unforgettable details (Rilke, supposedly, loved the letter y and used any excuse to write it) and endearing patterns (Marías would have us believe that many writers loathe Dostoyevsky). Written Lives immediately earned a spot on my shelf of most treasured objects, and every friend I’ve recommended it to has been equally enchanted.

Read: An introverted writer’s lament

Dear Friend, From My Life I Write to You in Your Life , by Yiyun Li

This sad and incredibly beautiful memoir from a writer best known for her fiction takes its title from a line in a notebook by the New Zealand author Katherine Mansfield. For Li, correspondence, diaries and journals, and literature in general are forms of consolation and companionship that make life worth living even in times of overwhelming despair. The memoir is a record of the reading experiences that saved Li from a dangerous depression. It made me want to dig more deeply into the work of all her favorite writers—Thomas Hardy, Ivan Turgenev, Elizabeth Bowen, William Trevor—because she describes them so warmly and affectionately, as if they were friends. Here, as in her novels, Li is philosophical, with a gift for startling aphorisms: “Harder to endure than fresh pain is pain that has already been endured,” she writes. And “One always knows how best to sabotage one’s own life,” or “What does not make sense is what matters.” Li’s work is so moving and so very wise.

Madness, Rack, and Honey , by Mary Ruefle

The American poet Mary Ruefle is one of those writers people like to call a “national treasure,” which always has to do with something beyond brilliance or talent, an additional spectacular charm that makes you wish you knew them in “real life.” This collection of lectures on poetry and topics adjacent to poetry (sentimentality, theme, the moon) is the perfect introduction to Ruefle’s particular charisma. She’s unabashedly devoted to poets and poems, but you don’t have to love poetry to fall in love with her voice. She’s plainspoken yet mysterious, always asking curious questions, about death and fear and secrets, and then answering herself with surprising authority. Ruefle is inclined toward quirky asides, but all roads lead back to books: “I offer my dinner guest, after dinner, the choice between regular and decaf coffee, when in fact I don’t have any decaf in the house,” she writes. “I am so sincere in my effort to be a good host that I lie; I think this probably happens all the time in poetry.” Ruefle offers a beautiful example of how a life filled with reading opens and alters the mind.

​When you buy a book using a link on this page, we receive a commission. Thank you for supporting The Atlantic.

Sacramento vs. Davis: Where should I book my hotel for the 2024 UC Tech Annual Conference?

• by Kayla Lee
• July 01, 2024

The 2024 UC Tech Annual Conference will be a three-day event held in Sacramento and Davis. Therefore, where should you book your hotel?   

Both cities offer fantastic experiences and where you choose to stay will depend on your preferences. Here are several things to consider before making your decision:

Davis: Convenient and laid-back    

Because Day 2 and Day 3 of the conference are in Davis, we recommend staying in Davis for convenience. Doing so also means you avoid rush-hour traffic on the Yolo Causeway that connects the two cities together.  

Davis exudes small-town charm through its relaxed atmosphere that encourages you to meditate in nature, visit the campus animals, bike around the city, or stroll along downtown to eat or shop. This city truly allows you to take things slow and appreciate everything the community has to offer.  

Summary:  

• Travel : bike/bus-friendly, walkable, avoids Yolo Causeway traffic  
• Restaurants : locally-owned, diverse selections  
• Activities/sightseeing : outdoor recreation, campus exploration, peaceful nightlife, community events

Sacramento: Bustling and historically-rich  

Only Day 1 of the conference is in Sacramento, but that doesn’t mean you should rule out the capital city as a potential hotel location! Let’s get the one downside of staying here out of the way: you may get caught in rush-hour traffic on the Yolo Causeway. However, this is avoidable by planning your travel times.  

On the upside, Sacramento offers an abundance of activities and places to explore — historical attractions, museums, zoos, live events, and more — by car, bike, bus, or walking. This city is a good choice if you want to sightsee, don’t mind taking a few extra steps for travel, and enjoy a “small town, big city” vibe.  

• Travel : car/bike/bus-friendly, walkable, may encounter Yolo County traffic  
• Restaurants : farm-to-fork, diverse selections  
• Activities/sightseeing : large variety, historical sites, outdoor recreation, live events/entertainment, vibrant nightlife  

If you’re still undecided, check out our Things to Do page for specific activities in both cities that may interest you.

Book your hotel: Discounted rates available

When you’re ready, check out the Hotel and Travel Accommodations page for a list of discounted and non-discounted 4-star hotel options, as well as information on how to get around UC Davis and UC Davis Health.

Revealing The Hidden Costs of Off-Campus Living: It’s More Than Just Rent

By Addison Fouts

The hidden costs of an off-campus living situation can be intimidating. Most universities require freshmen to live on campus for their first year. But what do you do when you have to make the decision on whether or not to remain on campus? The Education Data Initiative says, “At four-year public schools, on-campus students pay an average of $11,520 for room and board and off-campus students pay $11,365.”

You may be led to believe that choosing an off-campus option is the more financially sound decision, however in my experience that hasn’t been the case. Last year I had an apartment downtown, just steps away from campus. This year I have about a 5-minute commute. While I pay around $400 less on rent each month, I make that cost up in other areas.

As any significant life-changing event goes, you’re going to spend a pretty penny on apartment essentials. For your dorm, you only needed items to fill one room. Once you move into an apartment you have to account for several other rooms. You now have a laundry room, kitchen, living room, bathroom and a bedroom to be responsible for. These extra rooms require cleaning so you’ll need to stock up on household supplies. You would not believe how much toilet paper, tissues and paper towels you’ll go through. On average each American uses 50 pounds of tissue paper annually. You’ll also need to restock on laundry detergent and dryer sheets. To be more cost-effective I buy the reusable dryer balls because they’re a one-time cost and they last a long time. It’s also better for the environment so it’s a win-win. Additional costs to think about are aluminum foil, baking sheets, trash bags, parchment paper, a vacuum, mop or Swiffer, broom and any other cleaning tools you need. Each room seems to have an additional item for your grocery list each week. The list can start to feel endless.

You may also want to start investing in cookware now that you have a kitchen. In the dorm you probably had a mini fridge and a microwave. Now you’ll want to consider an air-fryer, blender and toaster. Most air fryers cost between $60-$130 but if you’re thinking about adding any appliances to your list this is a must-have. I use my air-fryer weekly for meal prepping and making easy dinners.

Now that I’ve mentioned appliances and groceries you’ll need to budget for them! The average college student spends around $410 a month on groceries. To help myself budget I try my best to meal plan for the week. It also helps me save money on gas because I’m not driving back and forth to and from campus to make myself lunch at home. Usually I’ll look on TikTok for an easy meal prep idea. Recently I’ve been making brown rice, roasted vegetables and a grilled chicken for my meal prep. Luckily there are microwaves on campus that I use to heat up my lunch. You could also do something that stays cool such as a wrap or salad. Unfortunately, some weeks are busier and I don’t get around to meal prepping. I’ll usually spend $11 on breakfast and about $15 on lunch. That’s $26 for the day which can add up when I’m having to make those purchases a few times per week.

One of the large areas of cost is Uber fees. Last week I spent $60 in Uber charges. Now that I live off-campus and I’m 21, Uber or Lyft are about the only options I have when it comes to transporting to the bars and restaurants downtown. With the rise of gas prices, Uber and Lyft fees have also gone up. The average price of an Uber rose 92% between 2018 and 2021 and 45% between 2019 and 2022. When I signed my lease for my off-campus apartment I was told that there would be a bus that would run from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m. Thursday-Saturday nights. The bus was allegedly supposed to drop off on campus which was only a brief 2-minute walk to the downtown nightlife, but this bus route doesn’t exist this year. I thought I would save a ton of money on transportation fees so when I found out that option wasn’t available my budget took a hit.

Another high cost happens to be my car. If you’re living off-campus you’re going to need reliable transportation. Over the summer my 2008 Mitsubishi gave out and I had to get a new car. According to edmunds, “the average used vehicle transaction price in Q1 2023 dipped 6.4% year-over-year but is up 44% from five years ago.” This is a huge financial hurdle, especially for someone who works 10 hours a week with no pay for a degree requirement. That doesn’t even include the gas it takes to get to campus each day or the cost of my parking pass. The average price of gas in Missouri right now is $3.23 per gallon. I end up filling my tank about once every two weeks since I have to drive to classes, work and extracurricular activities. The parking pass is $127.50 per semester. All these costs could be saved by staying on campus and choosing to walk to class or other activities.

The next time you’re faced with the decision of having to live on or off campus, consider your options wisely. I would recommend trying to find an apartment within walking distance of your campus. It may be more expensive in rent compared to apartments further off-campus, but you’ll save on Uber, gas money and car maintenance expenses. Fouts is a graduating senior at the University of Missouri School of Journalism.

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• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/read-the-full-supreme-court-decision-on-trump-and-presidential-immunity

Read the full Supreme Court decision on Trump and presidential immunity

Presidents and former presidents have broad immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts they took while in office, the Supreme Court said in a 6-3 decision Monday, in a case that will likely delay a potential trial for former President Donald Trump until after the 2024 election.

Read the full decision below.

Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the majority opinion in the one of the final cases the court heard this term. Roberts was joined by the court’s five other conservative justices, while the three liberal justices dissented.

The Supreme Court did not say Trump has immunity in this specific case, in which the federal government has accused the former president of trying to overturn the 2020 election through his actions on Jan. 6, 2021.

“Trump asserts a far broader immunity than the limited one we have recognized,” Roberts wrote in the majority opinion, adding, “The text of the [Impeachment Judgment] Clause provides little support for such an absolute immunity.”

LISTEN: Justices ask government which ‘core powers’ are covered by presidential immunity

Instead, the court remanded the case back down to the lower courts, which will now have to determine whether Trump’s actions constituted “official acts.”

“Today’s decision to grant former Presidents criminal immunity reshapes the institution of the Presidency,” Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote in her dissent. “It makes a mockery of the principle, foundational to our Constitution and system of Government, that no man is above the law.”

“The majority today endorses an expansive vision of Presidential immunity that was never recognized by the Founders, any sitting President, the Executive Branch, or even President Trump’s lawyers, until now. Settled under- standings of the Constitution are of little use to the majority in this case, and so it ignores them,” Sotomayor said.

The Justice Department has brought four charges against Trump in this federal 2020 election case: Conspiracy to defraud the United States; conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding; obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding; and conspiracy against rights, specifically “the right to vote, and to have one’s vote counted.”

Trump and his lawyers argued that former presidents must have broad immunity from criminal prosecution for acts they commit while in office.

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Money blog: 'Bleak' new security measure seen in Tesco store

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Leave a comment on any of the stories we're covering below.

Tuesday 2 July 2024 02:17, UK

Energy price cap falls

• Energy price cap falls today - here's what you need to know
• Thinking about switching? These are the cheapest energy tariffs available right now
• Are prepayment prices the cheapest way now?
• Will energy prices return to levels seen before COVID?

Essential reads

• 'Bleak' new security measure seen in Tesco
• New Wotsits and Monster Munch flavours as part of lower salt push - but that's not all you're getting less of
• Money Problem : 'I hired a car via EasyJet but they are directing my complaint to someone else - what can I do?'
• How to split housework fairly with your partner
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

Olive oil has become the latest staple to undergo "bleak" anti-theft measures.

The cooking product was spotted encased in netting and tagged with an alarm in an unspecified Tesco store, leading one customer to ask: "What has the world come to?"

It is just the latest product to be subject to supermarket security measures that have surprised customers, after an out-of-hours smoke machine was introduced in another Tesco store last month.

Neither security features are part of a universal policy and have been implemented only in individual stores, Sky News understands.

"All 'anti-shoplifting' measures are theatre," said one shopper on X, beneath a photo of the olive oil.

"This is so bleak," said another, while a third joked the oil "has to wear fishnets now".

We revealed earlier this year that there had been a 110.5% increase in the price of olive oil since January 2021.

High temperatures and droughts in Spain, the world's leading producer and exporter, have dented the harvest - a problem only worsened by global inflationary pressures.

Separately, a bacterial disease called Xylella Fastidiosa has attacked and killed century-old olive trees, severely diminishing yields in southern Europe.

And heightened prices have led organised criminal gangs to steal the "liquid gold".

Read more on what's behind exploding olive oil prices here...

We feature a lot of data on the changing prices of houses in the UK, but how do they compare to the rest of the world?

New data shows the UK ranked 37th for house price growth out of 56 countries analysed by Knight Frank for the Global House Price Index.

At 1.6% up over the year to the end of March, the UK underperformed (with the global average at 3.6%) but outstripped its European neighbours.

Only 11 countries saw prices fall, eight of which were European, with France (-5.2%) and Germany (-3.9%) feeling the effects of slower economic growth and high recent inflation.

Across all 56 markets, 82% saw annual price growth in the first quarter of the year - the strongest showing since the last quarter of 2022.

"Many markets are suffering from a lack of properties to sell as well as slow new-build delivery, leading to relatively healthy demand pushing prices to new highs," said Liam Bailey, Knight Frank's global head of research.

"In the longer term, however, only lower debt costs will sustain price growth."

With a 52% price increase, Turkey was at the top of the table by a huge margin - 36 percentage points - but there's more to this figure than meets the eye.

Consumer Price Index inflation in Turkey has risen 50% in the year to March, meaning in real terms house prices have actually fallen by 9.9%.

Recently we reported on how Barcelona had cracked down on tourism by planning to abolish short-term holiday lets . 

The Spanish city has now gone further in its war on overtourism by banning the display and sale of "offensive" souvenirs. 

It says sexist and homophobic messages on some souvenirs are tarnishing Barcelona's image. 

The ERC's deputy spokesperson Jordi Coronas said the ban included products such as "penises with the Barcelona brand, T-shirts with sexist or homophobic comments, or simply comments that, when displayed on these products, devalue Barcelona". 

Ahead of our Q&A, switching service Uswitch provided us with a list of what it considers the cheapest energy tariffs on the market right now.

It's worth reading the advice from Which? in our Q&A below (see 15.02 post) before deciding to switch from a standard variable tariff (that's what most households are on) - but if you're aware of the risks, then cheaper energy is available...

A big thanks to all those who submitted a question for our Q&A on the day the energy price cap fell - and sorry if we didn't get to yours.

A big thanks also to Emily Seymour, Which? energy editor, and Kate Mulvany, a principal consultant at Cornwall Insight, for tackling 10 of your questions so thoroughly.

Scroll down to read through their answers.

Does the UK have a secure enough energy supply in your view and what would it take for blackouts to occur this or any other winter?

Kate Mulvany, a principal consultant at Cornwall Insight, says..

The outlook for the upcoming winter appears promising, with strong gas reserves across Europe providing a healthy buffer to seasonal demand. 

While a very cold winter would increase the need for gas for heating across Europe, the UK's ability to secure gas and electricity from multiple sources keeps the risk of disruption to the flow of energy relatively low. 

Quite a few things would need to go wrong at the same time for there to be an increased risk of a widespread blackout. 

However, short-term blackouts would still be possible - as indeed at any time of year - due to storms or other weather incidents, as well as through localised network issues. 

It's worth mentioning that ministers have claimed the UK faces blackouts without new gas-fired power stations...

The bigger risk for homes in the UK is the pressure on energy bills. Although electricity and gas supplies appear healthy, affordability remains a concern, as seen in recent winters - particularly 2022-23.

Edward Morgan:

What's the best deal currently on the market in your view and does it come with any risks?

Emily Seymour, Which? energy editor, says...

As we said in one of our previous answers, there isn't a "one size fits all" for the best deals out there as it will all depend on individual circumstances. 

However, there are some tariffs available that are cheaper than the current price cap and might be worth considering. 

When Which? last checked, Ecotricity and Ovo both had fixed deals available for cheaper than the July price cap. 

However, Ecotricity's deal requires a smart meter - or you to agree to have one fitted - and Ovo's is only available if you also buy annual boiler cover, so you'll need to weigh up if this is right for you. Both also come with exit fees if you want to leave early. 

Tracker tariffs change in price relative to the price cap every three months when the price cap is reset to offer slightly cheaper rates than you'd be paying otherwise, and could be worth considering. They're currently available from E.ON Next , Scottish Power and Fuse Energy .

Consumers can use switching services - like Which? Switch Energy - to keep an eye on the best fixed deals available and compare deals to see what's cheapest for them. 

We'd always recommend checking the exit fees on fixed deals so you're not tied into a tariff if something better becomes available.

Why doesn't the government de-link the price of fossil fuel-generated electricity from that generated from renewable sources? Surely cheaper energy would be the result?

The current government has explored various methods to decouple wholesale gas and electricity prices through a programme called the Review of Electricity Market Arrangements (REMA). 

However, each option identified presented potential drawbacks for customers, as well as benefits. 

For example, one proposed solution was to set different prices for electricity generated by renewable sources compared to that generated by more carbon-intensive methods, such as burning gas. 

A significant challenge is that the country cannot yet generate all its electricity from renewable sources 24/7. 

During shortfalls, such as on a winter evening with low wind, non-variable renewable generation methods would still need to be used, meaning customers would still see the impacts of gas prices in those of electricity.

If I do not qualify for pension credit but receive housing benefit on top of my state pension, will I qualify for extra heating allowance/cold weather payment?

For the Warm Home Discount, Cold Weather Payment and Winter Heating payment, you should receive any discounts automatically if you're eligible. 

For the Warm Home Discount, each energy supplier also has its own eligibility criteria, which are approved by the energy regulator Ofgem, so you should check with your provider to see whether you meet its requirements.

If you were born before 25 September 1957, it's also likely you'll be able to get Winter Fuel Payments of between £100 and £300 for winter 2023-24. 

The payments are to help pay for your gas or electric heating in winter. You should get this automatically and should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre if you think you're eligible but haven't received anything. 

Energy companies are obliged to help you if you tell them you are struggling to pay and will not disconnect you if you miss a bill payment. 

If you are struggling with your bills, let your provider know and explain that you want to establish a payment plan that you can afford. 

Discuss your options with them, as they may include a review of your payments, a reduction in your payments or a payment break, more time to pay, and access to hardship funds.

Will energy prices ever return to levels seen before COVID - if not, why not?

Kate Mulvany, a principal consultant at Cornwall Insight, says...

At this point in time, we are not expecting a return to pre-COVID prices.

This is primarily due to the significant rise in the wholesale prices of electricity and gas following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 

The cost of the fuel - the wholesale cost or the commodity cost - is the largest part of the energy bill. 

Although some non-wholesale components of energy bills may decrease, the main factor driving prices is the cost of commodities. 

The UK's heavy reliance on imported electricity and natural gas exacerbates this issue. 

Therefore, increasing investment in domestic renewable and low-carbon energy sources is crucial to reduce this dependency.

Additionally, implementing measures to decouple electricity and gas prices in the wholesale market could help lower bills.

Why does Ofgem allow the price cap to be so high when we know how high the profits of energy companies are which in turn causes so much hardship for UK families?

The price cap limits the unit rates and standing charge levels that suppliers can charge domestic customers across many circumstances. 

Some parts of the energy price cap are directly regulated by Ofgem, while others, such as wholesale energy costs, reflect market conditions. 

The price cap includes various elements such as wholesale energy costs, network costs (the cost of moving gas and electricity around the country), operating costs, environmental and social policy costs, and the allowable profit for suppliers.

The role of energy suppliers is to purchase electricity from generators and sell it to customers, managing customer service, billing and other retail functions. 

Ofgem's formula for the price cap includes an allowance for suppliers to make a profit, which is overall a relatively small percentage of the total price cap amount. 

Headlines about energy companies' profits can refer to companies involved throughout the energy industry, not just suppliers. 

For example, companies that extract and transport gas or which generate electricity might not have prices directly regulated by Ofgem. 

There is global competition for energy, and so attempts for the UK to control wholesale costs might have an impact on security of supply. 

Since the cap limits unit rates and standing charge levels, but not the total bill, there has been increasing support for a social tariff, which would offer discounted deals to vulnerable households. 

Social tariffs for energy are not a new policy; they have been implemented before and are currently used in other sectors, such as telecommunications and broadband.

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