Category: Getting Unstuck | Read time: 4 min
"Should I take the job? Should I break up with them? Should I move? Should I have the chicken or the pasta?"
If you spend more time thinking about decisions than actually making them, this is for you.
Why You Overthink
Your brain thinks that more thinking = better decisions. It doesn't. After about 5 minutes of genuine consideration, you're not analyzing anymore — you're just anxious. You're running the same loop hoping for certainty that will never come.
No decision is risk-free. Overthinking is just procrastination wearing a smart outfit.
The 5-Minute Framework
Step 1: Name the Decision (30 seconds)
Write it down in one sentence. "Should I quit my job?" "Should I move to Austin?" "Should I text them back?"Step 2: List Your Options (1 minute)
Usually there are only 2-3 real options. Write them down. Not 10 variations — the actual choices.Step 3: For Each Option, Answer One Question (2 minutes)
"If I do this, what's the most likely outcome in 6 months?"Not the worst case. Not the best case. The MOST LIKELY case. Your brain defaults to catastrophizing. Force it to be realistic.
Step 4: Pick the One You'd Regret NOT Doing (1 minute)
Regret of inaction is almost always worse than regret of action. Which option would haunt you more if you didn't try it?Step 5: Set a Deadline (30 seconds)
"I will decide by Friday at 5pm." Tell someone. When the deadline hits, go with your gut. Your gut has been ready for a while — your brain just wouldn't shut up long enough to hear it.The 10/10/10 Rule
- For decisions that feel huge, ask:
- How will I feel about this in 10 minutes?
- How will I feel about this in 10 months?
- How will I feel about this in 10 years?
Most decisions that feel enormous right now won't matter in 10 years. The ones that will? You probably already know the right answer — you're just scared to commit to it.
The Reversibility Test
Ask: "Is this reversible?"
- Took a job you hate? You can quit.
- Moved somewhere you don't like? You can move back.
- Texted them and it was awkward? You'll survive.
Most decisions are reversible. The irreversible ones (having a kid, major surgery) deserve more time. Everything else? Make the call and adjust as you go.
The Honest Bit
Perfectionism isn't a strength. It's fear dressed up as high standards. The person who makes a decent decision today is further ahead than the person who makes a perfect decision never.
Stuck on a decision? Ask Neady. Sometimes you just need someone to say "do it."
Share this post