The most powerful tools are the simplest to use.
Take the wheel or a hammer — their utility is obvious.
When it comes to improving our lives, the most straightforward advice often seems too simple — how can it be that easy?
Surely, there must be more to it?
Personal development advice is cheap as chips because of this phenomenon; it’s easy to dole out but difficult to implement.
The simpler the tool, the more likely we are to use it.
Here’s a decision-making tool used by many of the great thinkers and doers of our time.
This one is credited to Warren Buffett, although knowing Warren, he probably got it at 50¢ on the dollar from someone nobody has ever heard of:
Before making a decision, consider how you will feel about it 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years from now.
That’s it.
We’ve all cursed our past selves for poor decision-making.
Before you act, do a bit of time travel and put yourself in your future self’s shoes.
What will future You think about what you’re doing now?