It’s remarkably easy to slip into a state of fight or flight without even realizing it. Everyday triggers—like a stressful email, a heated conversation, or simply rushing through tasks—can push our nervous systems into high alert. Once triggered, our decision-making capabilities dramatically weaken, often leading to impulsive and regrettable choices.

Understanding Fight or Flight Mode

The fight or flight response is an ancient survival mechanism designed to protect us from immediate danger. When activated, your body floods with adrenaline and cortisol, increasing heart rate, sharpening focus on perceived threats, and preparing you to react swiftly.

However, today’s stresses rarely require physical escape or combat, yet our brains still respond as if we face genuine danger, activating this system far too easily and frequently.

Why We Make Poor Choices in This State

In fight or flight mode, rational thinking is sidelined. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for logical reasoning, judgment, and long-term planning, is overshadowed by the amygdala—the brain’s emotional center. Decisions made from this heightened emotional state typically prioritize immediate relief rather than lasting solutions.

This explains why people snap at loved ones, make impulsive financial decisions, or respond defensively when they feel cornered. They’re acting from survival instinct rather than thoughtful deliberation.

Common Signs You’re in Fight or Flight Mode:

• Rapid heartbeat and shallow breathing
• Sudden irritability or defensiveness
• Feeling panicked or overwhelmed
• Difficulty thinking clearly or logically
• Making rushed or overly emotional decisions

How to Prevent Poor Decisions

1. Awareness:

Recognize when you’re slipping into this mode. Awareness alone can help defuse the intensity of the response.

2. Pause and Breathe:

Taking deep breaths signals safety to your brain, helping your rational mind come back online.

3. Step Back:

Physically or mentally removing yourself briefly from the situation allows emotions to settle.

4. Assess Logically:

Once calm, revisit your choices with clearer eyes. Rational reassessment can prevent lasting regrets.

Understanding how easily we slip into fight or flight, and how it compromises decision-making, empowers us to act differently. By consciously managing our responses, we not only make better choices but also build resilience and emotional intelligence over time.