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The December Effect: How Constraints Create Better Leadership Decisions

Date Published
December 14, 2025
Section
In the Media
Areas of Expertise
Decision Making & Negotiations Leadership Leadership & Organizational Behavior
From:
CBS In the News

Fast Company contributor Maria Papacosta cited influential research by Columbia Business School Professor Sheena Iyengar and her co-author in an article exploring why December often leads to clearer, more decisive leadership choices. Referencing findings from When Choice Is Demotivating: Can One Desire Too Much of a Good Thing?, the piece explains that when individuals are presented with fewer options, they are significantly more likely to take action and feel satisfied with their decisions. Iyengar’s research illustrates how choice overload can paralyze decision-making—offering practical insights for leaders seeking to design environments that encourage focus, commitment, and follow-through.

 

Mentioned Faculty

Sheena Iyengar

Sheena Iyengar

S. T. Lee Professor of Business; Chair of Management Division
Management Division
Mentioned On
Fast Company
Mentioned Research
When Choice Is Demotivating: Can One Desire Too Much of a Good Thing?
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