[ThinkBetter](https://thinkbetter.app/) → [Mental Models](https://thinkbetter.app/mental-models.md) → Bounded Rationality

# Bounded Rationality

Our ability to make rational decisions is limited by the information we have, cognitive constraints, and the time available.

![Bounded Rationality illustration](https://assets.thinkbetter.app/images/bounded_rationality.png)

Bounded Rationality is a concept that suggests that while we'd like to think of ourselves as completely rational beings, our decision-making is constrained. These constraints can be due to limited information, limited memory or attention, or simply the fact that there’s only so much time to make a decision. Instead of making the "perfect" decision, we often opt for what is "good enough" based on these limitations.

## Example

**Choosing a Work Software**

You're tasked with selecting a new software tool for your department. Ideally, you'd research every option out there, but there's just not enough time. Plus, it's hard to keep track of all the features and user reviews. So, you opt for a well-reviewed software that meets most of your requirements, even if there might be a potentially better one you missed. Why? The sheer volume of options and limited time force a decision that's 'good enough' rather than exhaustive.

## In your professional life

**Enhancing Communication Impact**

Simplify complex information when presenting to colleagues or clients, regardless of your field. By distilling intricate concepts into clear, digestible points, you're not only improving understanding but also showcasing your ability to communicate effectively. This can position you as a valuable asset in client relations, team leadership, or interdepartmental collaboration, potentially opening doors to new opportunities or responsibilities within your organization.

## Go deeper in ThinkBetter

The ThinkBetter app has the full Bounded Rationality deep-dive: more examples, a quiz to test yourself, audio narration, and a weekly path that builds these ideas into a habit.

- iOS: https://apps.apple.com/app/id6459831884
- Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.ventureship.braintricks

### Related concepts

- [Law of Diminishing Returns](https://thinkbetter.app/mental-models/law-of-diminishing-returns.md)
- [Ostrich Effect (Cognitive bias)](https://thinkbetter.app/cognitive-biases/ostrich-effect.md)
- [Map is Not The Territory](https://thinkbetter.app/mental-models/map-is-not-the-territory.md)
- [All cognitive biases](https://thinkbetter.app/cognitive-biases.md)

Page: https://thinkbetter.app/mental-models/bounded-rationality