Focusing effect simply means nothing in life is as important as we think it is while we are thinking about it.

Focusing effect describes a common human error in thinking. It is our frequent tendency to rely too heavily, or to anchor, on one trait or piece of information when making decisions, which generally is the piece of information right in front of us, or with which we are most familiar, or which is easiest for us to access or evaluate.

Sleeping on it, taking a walk in the woods, brainstorming, talking it over with a disinterested party, “clean sheet” thinking, or zero-based budgeting are techniques for avoiding the focusing effect.

Closing quotes:

“People mistakenly assume that their thinking is done by their head; it is actually done by the heart which first dictates the conclusion, then commands the head to provide the reasoning that will defend it.” — Anthony de Mello

“Do not make long term decisions when under the grip of short term emotions.” — Nathan S. Collier

“This too shall pass.” — Folklore