This is quite thought-provoking.
When I have to choose between two unattractive situations, I just go for the one I consider to be better amongst the two.
But then, the possibility of not having to choose either seems exciting.
The third option for me, sometimes, is choosing to do nothing(which, from my perspective, is also a choice). That choice doesn't always turn out well though.
I've never actually considered introducing a whole new variable before. I think that's something worth exploring.
Those pictures are very nice btw. They look amazing.