Rick Lee
Time Read
5
mins
January 25, 2022

Why the Status Quo Is So Appealing

We humans seem enchanted with leaving things as they are. Ironically, it may not be so much an infatuation with the status quo, but rather, a feeling of stress when encumbered by decision making. 

  • What should I wear today?
  • When should I buy gas?
  • How much money to place in the collection plate?
  • Will it rain when I’m outside today? Do I need an umbrella?

Every day, we wade through a plethora of options to complete the day. For many people, having to decide — to be the decision maker — is a source of considerable stress and anxiety. Doing nothing can often be preferable. The loss or consequence of picking of the wrong choice looms larger than the potential gain. 

In human psychology this is known as the status quo bias, a cognitive bias of human behavior across sociology, politics, and economics. In behavioral economics terms, it’s known as the default option

The best example of using the default option to improve the lives of people who prefer the status quo occurred in the ‘90s. At that time, 401(k) plans enacted by Congress in 1975 had been in existence for over 15 years. Most employers discovered that, even when they offered an “employer match” of 6%, employees showed little interest in signing up for the tax-deferred money. Across the country, only one in five employees was taking advantage of 401(k) options. 

Then, a behavioral economist entered the picture and introduced the “default option.” Employees were automatically enrolled in a 401(k) plan, unless they wanted to opt out. Enrollment leapt from 20% nationwide to 75%. Those who preferred the status quo, were now permitted to “remain” in the 401(k) plan, rather than opt into it. 

And now the generation that benefitted the most from Congress’ new individual/portable savings plan (the Boomers) have amassed over $55 trillion in retirement savings. That’s a lot a meatballs!

At Healthrageous, we practice default options by deploying the Chef’s Pick. This is an assortment of 14 curated meals that are portion-controlled, low in sodium, high in fiber and often plant based. They come in one delivery to a senior’s front door to be consumed throughout the week.

We no longer let our Healthy Eaters fret about what to buy, what to eat, or worry how much effort is involved in food prep. We use our expertise to deliver healthy, convenient choices right to their door: Just heat and eat from your freezer, to your microwave, to your table. We’re helping seniors get healthier while taking the stress out of meal planning and prep. We’re working with the status quo bias rather than against it. And as a result, seniors love our solutions.

Click HERE to request information to activate your chronically ill Medicare seniors with the convenience of simple choices to eat nutritious, diabetic and cardiac-friendly meals.

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