In "The Paradox of Choice," Barry Schwartz highlights the distinction between maximizers and satisficers in decision-making. Maximizers tend to set high standards and expectations for themselves, leading them to seek the absolute best options. This pursuit of perfection can result in dissatisfaction when their experiences do not meet these elevated anticipations.

Conversely, satisficers are more content with choices that meet their essential criteria, which allows them to experience positive outcomes even in situations where maximizers might feel disappointment. This variance in expectations significantly influences how individuals evaluate their happiness and satisfaction with their decisions.