The 10-10-10 Decision Framework
The 10-10-10 framework, developed by Suzy Welch, is a decision-making method that encourages individuals to consider how they’ll feel about a choice in three distinct time frames: 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years. It’s often applied to major life and relationship decisions—such as breakups, difficult conversations, or long-term commitments.
The model forces consideration of multiple time horizons, helping balance immediate emotions against long-term consequences. It’s designed to prevent impulsive decisions and promote choices that align with deeper values and goals.
Scientific Basis
Strong underlying science, arbitrary timeframes: The psychological foundation of this framework is well-supported, but the specific “10-minute, 10-month, 10-year” intervals have not been empirically validated.
Supporting Evidence
- Temporal perspective interventions effectively modify decision-making processes.
- Considering multiple time horizons improves decision quality and foresight.
- Future-oriented thinking reduces impulsivity and leads to more stable outcomes.
- Time perspective can be trained and modified through deliberate reflection.
Psychological Mechanism
The framework works by counteracting present bias—the tendency to overweight short-term consequences while undervaluing long-term impact. It engages prefrontal brain regions responsible for long-term planning and self-control, improving emotional regulation during decision-making.
Limitations
No studies have validated the exact 10-minute/10-month/10-year intervals. Some research suggests that optimal timeframes may vary depending on the decision context—for example, shorter horizons for immediate, high-pressure choices and longer ones for life planning.
In short: the framework has a solid scientific foundation grounded in temporal decision theory, though Welch’s specific time markers remain untested.
Instructions: Applying the 10-10-10 Method
10 minutes: How will you feel immediately after deciding? Consider your short-term emotional response.
10 months: Will this decision still feel right? Does it align with your goals and values over the medium term?
10 years: Will this contribute to the person you want to become or the life you want to lead?
Best Practices
- Use the framework for significant or emotionally charged decisions.
- Write down your answers for each time horizon to clarify thinking.
- Adjust timeframes if necessary (e.g., 1 hour / 1 year / 5 years) to suit the context.
- Review decisions over time to refine your judgment process.
