The Boss’s Daughter

How to Overcome Paint Paralysis 

Have you or a loved one fallen victim to paint paralysis? You’re not alone, and you most definitely won’t be the last. Choosing a paint color can be surprisingly stressful. The fear of picking the wrong shade can hold people back from choosing anything at all. Two common signs: second-guessing every option and not knowing where to start. 

But there’s hope! After years of both successful (and let’s be honest, not-so-successful) color choices, I’ve learned a few tricks to make the process not just tolerable but actually enjoyable. 

My First Paint Disaster 

My first experience choosing a paint color was when I was fourteen. I was finally allowed to pick my own bedroom color and, obviously, I didn’t need any advice from my parents. Forget the fact that my dad owns a remodeling company; I was an expert in my own mind. 

Flipping through the swatches, I saw it: Viking Diva. One, Vikings are awesome. Two, I am a total diva. Color chosen. Easy. 

My dad, wise to my ways, asked several times if I wanted to rethink it. Maybe something lighter? Softer? I insisted it was perfect. He painted my room. 

It was awful. I spent four years living in that room, regretting my choice, and still refused to admit that choosing a color based solely on the name was a terrible idea. 

Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Color 

1. Paint Comes Last 

Don’t pick your paint color first. Look at what’s staying in your space: furniture, flooring, artwork, and start with those bigger, fixed elements. Your wall color should complement them, not compete. 

2. Consider Emotional Connection 

Colors influence mood. Blues create a calming, peaceful atmosphere. Red can bring energy and passion. Yellow is cheerful and quirky. Think about how you want to feel in the space before settling on a hue. 

3. Go Big with Samples 

Paint a large swatch at least 2x2 feet and test it next to a lighter and darker shade. This will give you a better sense of how subtle variations can change the look. 

4. Live with It for a Few Days 

Paint looks different in morning light than it does in the evening. Give yourself a few days to see the color in all lighting conditions before making the final call.