Manage cognitive load

Every day, our brain gets slammed with thousands of tiny decisions:

What to click.

What to eat.

What to wear.

What to reply to.

Where to spend energy.

I’m tired just thinking about it.

By the afternoon most people are running low on decision-making gas — it’s called decision fatigue.

Use this to your advantage.

After 1 PM, never ask someone a question that forces them to think too hard.

Instead, frame your ask to elicit a “No” — it’s easier on their brain, and it actually increases your chances of moving things forward.

For example:

Instead of:

“What do you want me to do?”

Try:

“Any reason not to ask Chat GPT to draft a few options?”

Instead of:

“How should I handle this with the client?”

Try:

“Would it be crazy to suggest a quick call with them tomorrow?”

Instead of:

“Should I move this meeting?”

Try:

“Is keeping it where it is still working for you?”

Saying “No” feels safe.

It reduces cognitive load.

It gives the person a sense of control — even as you guide them where you need them to go.

Influential communicators don't just manage the message. They manage how heavy it feels to answer. They manage the other person’s cognitive load.

Make it easier, and you’ll get what you want faster.