The Lawyer’s Well-Being Brief. . .The 10–10–10 Rule: A Mindful Framework for Better Decisions
“Each day provides its’ own gifts.”-Marcus Aurelius
Welcome (back) to the Lawyer’s Well-Being Brief! Each week, I share insights and practical strategies to help us cultivate well-being and thrive — both personally and professionally. Live well! Lawyer well!
Life constantly asks us to choose — sometimes between good and good, other times between now and later, comfort and growth. The 10–10–10 Rule is a deceptively simple yet profoundly grounding tool for moments like these.
Created by author Suzy Welch, this rule helps you step back from the emotional noise of a decision and consider its ripple effects across time. It’s part mindfulness, part strategy — and completely transformative when applied with intention.
How the 10–10–10 Rule Works
At its core, the 10–10–10 Rule asks us to evaluate a decision through three lenses of time:
10 minutes: How will I feel about this decision in the immediate or near term?
10 months: What will its impact be over the next several months?
10 years: How might this choice shape my life, work, or relationships a decade from now?
By shifting focus between these time frames, we zoom out from momentary emotions to our deeper intentions — the values and goals that guide meaningful living.
Applying the Rule in Daily Life
Define the Decision Clearly
Start small but specific. Identify what’s truly at stake. Are we deciding whether to take a new job, end a partnership, or start a creative project? Clarity is our compass.Reflect on the 10-Minute Perspective
What emotions surface right now? Excitement? Anxiety? Relief? Acknowledge them without judgment. Immediate feelings often show what we crave or fear — but they shouldn’t drive the entire journey.Consider the 10-Month View
Ask yourself what this choice might look like in several months. Will it bring stability, challenge, or growth? Imagine how it might impact our energy, finances, or relationships once the initial buzz settles.Visualize the 10-Year Impact
Here’s the long view — the one that asks what kind of life we’re building. Will this decision align with your future self and values? Does it move you toward peace, purpose, and wellbeing, not just success?
Why the 10–10–10 Rule Strengthens Wellbeing
This framework works not just because it improves decision quality — but because it nurtures inner balance. It reminds us that good decisions harmonize short-term emotions and long-term values. Instead of reacting to pressure, we create space to respond with clarity.
Whether we’re navigating career changes, relationships, or daily priorities, the 10–10–10 Rule is a mindful pause button — one that invites us to lead with both heart and perspective.
Final Thoughts
Next time we face a tough choice, let’s take a breath and walk through these three time frames. Chances are, we’ll find not just the right answer — but peace in your process.
Forward Always!
