The 10-10-10 Decision-making Technique

The 10-10-10 technique is a specially designed method for making difficult decisions. In other words, those types of decisions in which if you choose path A, things can go well or badly. The same is true for paths B and C. So, simply put, you don’t know what to do because there is no factor that tips the balance anywhere.

For those complex decisions sometimes the old trick of the list of pros and cons is not enough. That’s when the 10-10-10 technique comes in handy. This method was invented by Suzy Welch , a journalist specializing in economics from the United States, who is already famous for her editorial successes.

Welch studied in detail how the brain works during decision making. He found that there is a very important flaw , which is called hyperbolic discounting. In short, it means that we behave as if the future does not exist. For example, we eat junk food, as if we are not accumulating a disease. To neutralize this bias, the 10-10-10 technique was created.

How does the 10-10-10 technique work?

The 10-10-10 technique begins with the formulation of the question that gives rise to the complex decision. The first thing, then, is to clearly define what is the problem to be solved or what is the decision to be taken. For example, should I change jobs? Is it time to have a child? Is it best to leave the country?

The more precise you are in defining the question , the easier it is for you to make the right decision. The picture becomes much clearer when we know exactly what is the essential element of a problem or the variables that maintain it.

The next thing is to collect information. This can be done through reading, conversation, or whatever other medium is available. The aim is to identify the main ways to solve the problem or solve the conflict. The objective? Answer three simple questions: what will be the consequences of each of my options in ten minutes? And in ten months? And in ten years?

The three times

The 10-10-10 technique should not be taken strictly literally. In other words, you don’t necessarily have to ask yourself about ten minutes, or ten months, or ten years. This is simply a didactic way of illustrating how the method works. What is sought is to look at the situation in terms of the immediate , medium and long term.

The first moment refers to the consequences that a decision can have right now, at the precise moment in which it is taken. The second moment refers to when the decision has already been made and throws its first consequences. And the third moment has to do with the remote future and the effects that the decision will have over time.

It’s called the 10-10-10 technique simply because Susy Welch wanted to use this name as a mantra. However, what it basically refers to is at the moment of exaltation (or decision-making), at a time later and at the time when everything is said and done.

The analysis

Once the three times have been visualized, using the 10-10-10 technique, an additional analysis is carried out. In this the information that has been collected, the options that have been visualized, the beliefs, goals, dreams and needs must intervene. Welch points out that at this point a specific question must be asked: what is the option that helps me take more control over my own life?

The answer to that question is the ultimate factor in making the decision. That which ensures greater coherence with the life plan is the most appropriate. Many people are surprised at the end result, since it is usual for this process to bring out fears, or desires that were not very clear.

Not always at the end of the process people come to a happy conclusion. Sometimes decisions involve resignations or losses. However, if the method was applied properly, a sense of relief will also arise. Once the path that leads to personal evolution is discovered, a greater willingness to project energies there is also born.