Action Bias

By Deane Barker •

Also known as: The Urgency Bias

We have a tendency to action to solve a problem. We feel that we have to “do something,” when the right solution might be to do nothing because (1) the situation will resolve itself, or (2) the situation is impossible to solve, and any available courses of action would either be ineffectual or make it worse.

Aphorisms

Examples

The most effective aspect to losing weight is controlling food intake, not exercising. We need to do less eating rather than more moving. But we view exercise as “taking action” against a problem, while limiting food intake is viewed as more passive.

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