Status quo bias
The preference for keeping things as they are, even when a change would be better. The current state becomes the reference point, and any change feels like a risk.
In everyday life
Many people stay with a default pension plan or phone contract for years without comparing better options.
Your internet bill has crept up every year and a rival offers faster service for less, but you stay with your current provider because switching feels like a bother, even though it takes one phone call.
Why your mind does this
Keeping our freedom to choose and our standing in a group protects us from being exploited or pushed out. Sticking with what already works, and avoiding choices we can't undo, limits the damage of a bad call. These habits likely helped people get by in small groups, where losing status or making a costly mistake could be serious.
How to spot it
Ask whether you would choose your current situation if you were picking fresh today.
How to counter it
Once a year, review your defaults, such as plans, subscriptions and routines, as if you were signing up for the first time.