After reading the article https://trib.al/2fHdEbC about using the "10-10-10 rule" to make better decisions, I felt prompted to write a personal reflection. As someone who is not usually very active on social media, I am starting to explore the idea of sharing my thoughts more publicly. The article's emphasis on visualizing our future selves really resonated with me. It made me realize how many of my own decisions stemmed from failing to consider my long-term goals and values. I am sure, all of us, if not often, occasionally might have acted impulsively in the moment without connecting to the impact on my future self.
I wanted to share my thoughts on how the 10-10-10 rule could help cultivate greater self-continuity and lead to wiser choices in my own life. My hope is that by practicing this simple technique, I can become more intentional about the person I want to become months and years down the line.
I resonate deeply with the idea that visualizing our future selves can lead to better decision making. When I think back on past choices I've regretted, they often stemmed from prioritizing immediate gratification over my long-term goals and values. Pausing to envision how I’ll feel 10 minutes, months and years down the line provides much-needed perspective. It taps me into greater continuity between my present and future selves. Rather than seeing them as disconnected, I remember that I’m choosing whether future me will be proud or disappointed.
Cultivating this self-continuity muscle takes practice. But the research shows it’s worth it, leading to better health, finances, ethics and overall well-being. When applied consistently, I believe the 10-10-10 rule can help me become who I envision for my best self. It keeps me accountable to goals like building lasting relationships, continuous self-improvement and leaving a positive legacy.
Of course, the rule isn't a cure-all. Deeply entrenched impulses can still win out. But it provides a valuable speed bump whenever I'm tempted to act rashly. Slowing down to consult future me grants clarity I usually lack in the heat of the moment. Over time, those small course corrections can put me firmly on the path towards who I want to become.
The decisions we make today sow the seeds for who we'll be in the future. The 10-10-10 rule helps cultivate self-continuity and wise choices not just for tomorrow, but for the person we hope to become months and years down the line. I invite others to try this technique when facing a tricky choice. Let's keep each other accountable to our highest selves, both present and future. How can we help each other become our best selves ten minutes, months and years from now? Please share your thoughts and experiences.