Why habits feel less stressful than decisions

Doing something by habit tended to feel less stressful than doing something that needed fresh decisions.

The study

Researchers asked people to keep hourly diaries of what they were doing, thinking, and feeling in everyday life. When people were doing habitual activities, they reported feeling less stressed than during activities that were not habitual.

Starting small

Part of what a habit offers is fewer choices to make. Once a small routine is settled, such as a short walk at the same time each day, it may take less effort and feel easier than deciding afresh each time.