The 10-10-10 Rule For Decision Making

Humans are too short-term oriented. We often let immediate emotions and fleeting concerns dictate our decisions. But if we can just change our mindset to focus on the long term, everything could be different.

Imagine this: You’re agonizing over whether to accept an invitation to a big event. It feels overwhelming now—what to wear, who will be there, and whether you'll have a good time. But ask yourself: How will I feel about this in 10 weeks, 10 months, or 10 years? Chances are, you won’t even remember the details, let alone the stress you’re feeling now.

This simple mental exercise can bring much-needed clarity. It helps you step back and put things in perspective. By viewing the situation through the lens of time, you can untangle the emotional weight that often clouds judgment.

This mindset shift makes decision-making less about fear and more about action. Instead of being paralyzed by the possibility of regret, you focus on taking the next step—whether that’s accepting the invitation or politely declining. In the end, it’s not the decision itself but the actions you take afterward that shape your path.