Popularized by author Suzy Welch, the 10-10-10 Rule is a simple yet effective decision-making strategy.

Before making a decision (big or small), ask yourself: “How will I feel about this decision in 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years?”

SUPERHUMAN SCORING

In every edition of System Sunday, I assess the featured system across three superhuman dimensions: impact, setup, and maintenance.

Unlike your typical review, I focus on factors that influence personal growth. Get to know the evaluation system.

Impact (9.5/10)

Second-order thinking helps you consider the potential impacts of a decision beyond the immediate and obvious consequences.

It’s especially useful when there’s a bias toward instant gratification. The reason? Second-order thinking will help you think through time. You can take a wider lens and get perspective.

As I learned from Farnam Street, many extraordinary things in life are first-order negative and second-order positive.

For example, starting a new workout regimen. It's painful at first, with little instant gratification (negative). But there IS a long-term health payoff (positive).

Another instance might be a difficult conversation (short-term pain) that would free you from a so-so or toxic relationship (long-term payoff).

Incorporating the 10-10-10 Rule into your decision-making process can help prioritize your values & goals. If you ever feel stuck in a decision, choose the favorable option at 10 months and 10 years.

Note: Sometimes, you can even get positive checks in all three time horizons! Like with a nutritious and delicious lunch.

Setup (9.0/10)

1. Grab a pen and paper (digital notes also work).

2. Create 3 columns across the top of the page: 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years.

3. Write down how you will feel about the decision across these 3 time zones. Consider the impact on your health, relationships, and finances.

Maintenance (6.0/10)

I recommend following the journaling exercise above to build the habit of the 10-10-10 Rule. Writing it down is particularly helpful for big and difficult decisions.

Over time, you’ll internalize this process. Then, with practice, you can filter decisions through the framework in your head—with greater consistency and speed.

BRINGING IT HOME

One of my favorite quotes:

“Your life is the sum result of all the choices you make, both consciously and unconsciously. If you can control the process of choosing, you can take control of all aspects of your life.”

-Robert F Bennett.

The promise of the 10-10-10 Rule? To help you better control the process of choosing—to create the life you want.

All systems go,

P.S. Welcome to the 7,537 subscribers who joined us since last week! 🎉

---

2 MORE WAYS I CAN HELP YOU

Creator Method [Digital Course]: A proven system for building a 100K+ audience and 6-figure online business. Accelerate your results with this self-paced course. Get instant access.

1:1 Coaching: Book a working session with me. 1-on-1 coaching is available for both business and personal growth topics. Let’s win together 🏅