This is one of the best filters I’ve found for decision-making.
It’s just one question:
Will I regret this?
Not will it work out.
Not will it be worth my while.
Not will this make sense to others.
Just:
Will I regret this?
Here’s how it plays out.
You’re unsure whether to message someone you admire.
Will I regret reaching out if they don’t reply?
Or will I regret never reaching out?
You’re hesitating to apply for a promotion.
Will I regret putting myself forward and not getting it?
Or will I regret not putting my hat into the ring?
You’re thinking of cancelling on an event because you’re tired.
Will I regret skipping this event?
Or will I regret some extra sleep?
Not every decision needs a spreadsheet.
Most just need a moment of honesty.
This question does a good job at landing on a binary outcome.
And the cool thing about this question is you don’t have to justify the answer.
Ask yourself this question the next time you’re unsure about what action to take.