We freely purchase goods with the knowledge that we can return them within a given period if it does not meet our expectations. It gives us some confidence but is inevitably a mechanism for the seller to entice one to purchase with greater ease. This differs from ‘the old days,’ where credit did not exist, layaways were common practice, and all sales were final.
While it may be a convenient marketing practice, we have taken this to form our way of thinking where there is little permanence. Individuals now change their jobs and careers more freely, and it is less complicated to divorce from a relationship than ever before. Yet, this same thinking leads us to some frivolous thinking where we are quick to engage and commit with the expectation we can get out.
What if we could not? Would we alter our decision? How likely are you to engage in a new practice at work, make the hire, or subscribe to the new service if it’s permanent? There are costs associated with all of these if they prove to be a mistake. However, we may be able to avoid it if we stop and consider how we may feel if permanence is associated with the decision.
