Ego Depletion

Today, I’d like to talk about decision-making and how it becomes harder as the day progresses.

At work, you may be making numerous decisions—budgeting, handling people issues, managing client proposals, and resolving conflicts. Then, when you get home, your partner asks, “Where shall we go for dinner?” or your kids ask, “Where are we going on holiday?”—and suddenly, you just can’t decide.

This mental exhaustion is what Baumeister referred to as Ego Depletion.

What Is Ego Depletion?

Baumeister’s concept of Ego Depletion is based on the Greek meaning of “ego” (the self), rather than Freud’s interpretation. It explains how our prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for decision-making—becomes fatigued after sustained use.

Think of it like a battery:
🔋 Fully charged in the morning
🔋 Draining as decisions accumulate
🔋 Depleted by the evening, making decision-making harder

When the battery is low, decision quality declines, and we rely more on cognitive biases, leading to poorer choices.

How to Replenish Mental Energy

To counteract Ego Depletion, here are three key strategies:

1️⃣ Prioritise Sleep

Research shows that a good night’s sleep restores the prefrontal cortex, improving decision-making and mental resilience.

2️⃣ Maintain Energy Levels

Glucose is essential for brain function. A fascinating study on parole officers found that they made better decisions in the morning and after lunch, but worse decisions before lunch and later in the day.

The lesson? Eating well and staying energised helps maintain cognitive function throughout the day.

3️⃣ Boost Motivation and Morale

Feeling motivated and supported can counteract mental fatigue. One simple yet powerful way to help colleagues experiencing Ego Depletion is by giving positive feedback. Recognising their efforts replenishes their mental energy, making it easier for them to stay engaged.

Final Thoughts on Ego Depletion

Understanding Ego Depletion helps leaders and professionals manage decision fatigue, maintain mental sharpness, and support team performance. By prioritising sleep, energy, and motivation, you can improve both your own decision-making and that of those around you.

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With best regards,

David Klaasen

Talent4Performance help business leaders clarify complexity. We inspire people and drive continuous performance improvement, so they can convert thinking into action and results.

©David Klaasen – 2025