The 10/10/10 Rule – How to Make Regret-Free Decisions in Seconds

Making decisions is hard.

Whether it’s choosing a career path, deciding where to live, or even figuring out what to say yes or no to, the fear of making the wrong choice can leave you stuck in indecision.

But here’s the good news: There’s a simple mental model that can help you cut through the stress, eliminate regret, and make decisions you’ll feel good about in the long run.

It’s called The 10/10/10 Rule.

What Is the 10/10/10 Rule?

The 10/10/10 Rule was popularized by author and business executive Suzy Welch. It’s a decision-making framework that forces you to think about the short-term, medium-term, and long-term impact of your choices.

Here’s how it works:

When you’re faced with a tough decision, ask yourself:
1️⃣ How will I feel about this 10 minutes from now?
2️⃣ How will I feel about it 10 months from now?
3️⃣ How will I feel about it 10 years from now?

By considering all three timeframes, you break free from short-term thinking and gain clarity about what really matters.

Why the 10/10/10 Rule Works

Most people make decisions based on how they feel in the moment—or they get stuck overanalyzing every possible outcome.

The 10/10/10 Rule works because it forces you to:

• Zoom out: It shifts your perspective from "right now" to the bigger picture.

• Balance emotion and logic: You consider both short-term feelings and long-term consequences.

• Simplify the process: By focusing on only three questions, you avoid decision fatigue.

How to Use the 10/10/10 Rule

Step 1: Identify the Decision

What choice are you struggling with? Write it down.

Example:

• Should I quit my current job for a new opportunity?

• Should I invest in this training program?

• Should I commit to a big project?

Step 2: Answer the 10/10/10 Questions

For each timeframe, write down your honest answers:

1️⃣ 10 minutes: How will I feel immediately after making this decision?
(Consider emotions like relief, fear, excitement, or regret.)

2️⃣ 10 months: How will this decision impact my life in the medium term?
(Think about the practical outcomes and what you’ll gain or lose.)

3️⃣ 10 years: Looking back a decade from now, will this decision have mattered?
(This helps you focus on what’s truly important in the long run.)

Step 3: Decide with Confidence

Once you’ve answered all three questions, the best choice often becomes obvious.

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Should I Take a New Job?

• 10 minutes: I’ll feel nervous about leaving my comfort zone.

• 10 months: I’ll be learning new skills and growing professionally.

• 10 years: This could be a pivotal decision that leads to a more fulfilling career.

Decision: Take the job.

Example 2: Should I Buy an Expensive Gadget?

• 10 minutes: I’ll feel excited about the purchase.

• 10 months: It might not feel as valuable as I thought.

• 10 years: I won’t even remember this purchase.

Decision: Save the money.

Common Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

❌ Focusing too much on the short term:
It’s easy to let fear or excitement cloud your judgment. The 10/10/10 Rule helps you balance short-term emotions with long-term thinking.

❌ Overcomplicating the process:
Don’t overthink your answers. Be honest and keep it simple.

❌ Ignoring your values:
Your answers should align with your core values and goals. Use the 10/10/10 framework as a guide—not a replacement for your intuition.

Your Action Step

Here’s how to use the 10/10/10 Rule today:

1️⃣ Think of one decision you’ve been struggling with.
2️⃣ Ask yourself the three questions: 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years.
3️⃣ Use your answers to make a confident, regret-free choice.

Why This Matters

Decisions shape your life. By using the 10/10/10 Rule, you can:

• Make choices you’ll feel good about in the long run.

• Avoid getting stuck in analysis paralysis.

• Focus on what truly matters.

This isn’t just a decision-making tool—it’s a framework for clarity, confidence, and intentional living.

Ready to start making smarter decisions?

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To better decisions,
Steve