Make Life-Changing Decisions With the 10-10-10 Rule

When making big decisions about career, personal life, or business, use the 10-10-10 rule. This decision-making tool is a simple and practical approach for those times when you feel unclear. It steers you from the emotional towards a long-term vision, imbuing confidence and clarity about decisions.

Career expert and bestselling author Suzy Welch developed this transformative decision-making system, according to The Everygirl blog. The system has gained recognition from business leaders, talk show host Oprah, and is taught at Harvard.

This method has even caught the attention of successful investors like Warren Buffett, who recognize its value in making strategic choices, according to Medium.

Understanding the three perspectives
The rule guides decision-makers through three essential time frames. Inc. recommends writing down the decision to be made in very clear terms.  Now consider how you will feel about the decision in 10 minutes, addressing immediate emotional reactions and short-term impacts. Next, evaluate the 10-month perspective, which helps assess medium-term consequences and potential opportunities that may arise. Finally, examine the 10-year outlook, ensuring that your choice aligns with long-term goals and values.  

For instance, when considering a challenging work project, you might feel initial anxiety or discomfort when viewed through the 10-minute lens, explains Everygirl. You could recognize a potential for skill development or improved reputation when seen through the 10-month lens.

Yet, when the same decision is viewed in another 10 years, you may realize it offers career advancement or credibility from supervisors. This approach helps prevent making decisions that are based on emotions or fears, allowing you to be logical and think strategically as opposed to being reactive. 

It encourages you to consider both short-term demands and long-term vision, as well as avoiding any cognitive bias, suggests Medium. As the brain is wired to gravitate towards short-term pleasure, the balanced 10-10-10 perspective offers a glimpse into the future. This helps you demonstrate better judgment and think strategically.

Implementation in daily life
From career moves to personal relationships, this approach works for various situations, ensuring your choices align with your core values and goals. To use the 10-10-10 rule effectively, start by clearly defining the decision at hand. Write down your potential choices and systematically evaluate each through the three time frames.

The beauty of this system lies in its flexibility and extensive application. Whether you are weighing a job offer, considering a business investment, or making personal life changes, the framework provides clarity and perspective. It helps prevent decision paralysis while ensuring thorough consideration of potential outcomes.

The power of the 10-10-10 rule extends beyond immediate decision-making benefits. Regular use of this framework develops stronger analytical skills and better judgment over time, according to Medium. By consistently considering short-term, medium-term, and long-term implications, you may build a more strategic mindset that serves well in all areas of life.

This straightforward yet powerful approach transforms how people make decisions, replacing impulsive reactions with thoughtful consideration. By taking the time to evaluate choices through these three distinct lenses, you can move forward knowing that you have considered both the immediate impact as well as future consequences.