When you have to make important decisions, like choosing a career or a retirement plan, what affects your choices? People often think we weigh the pros and cons, but it’s not that simple. The choices we make depend on the situation we’re in. How choices are presented to us can be a big deal. For example, when people decide on retirement plans, it’s not just about if it’s a good plan. It also matters if they have to actively say yes to it (opt-in) or if they’re already signed up and can say no (opt-out). More people choose a plan if they don’t have to opt in.

Marketers use this to their advantage. They pay to put products at your eye level in stores because you’re more likely to buy them. We can be easily influenced. But here’s the good part: you can use this to help you concentrate better! Craftspeople like cooks and carpenters do this. They need to stay focused. They create the right environment for their work. For example, a cook organizes ingredients in order to save time. Even if you’re not a craftsman, you can make a distraction-free space. One way is to reduce anything that might distract you.