Consumer Purchases
The Rule of Three - Find three options maximum - Compare on primary criterion only - Choose the middle option
This beats analysis paralysis 90% of time.
The Brand Trust Method - Identify 2-3 trusted brands per category - Buy their mid-range option - Don't research further
Tom buys Sony electronics, Patagonia outdoor gear, and Honda vehicles. Decisions take seconds.
Entertainment Choices
The Five-Minute Rule - Browse for 5 minutes maximum - Choose something that looks interesting - Start watching/reading/listening - Only switch if truly awful
Better to consume good content than optimize forever.
The Recommendation Trust - Keep list of trusted recommenders - Try their suggestions without research - Thank them if you enjoy it
Social proof from curated sources beats anonymous reviews.
Food Decisions
The Rotation Method - 5 breakfast options - 7 lunch spots - 10 dinner recipes - Rotate without thinking
Variety without decision fatigue.
The Default Order Every restaurant has your standard: - Mexican: Chicken tacos - Italian: Margherita pizza - Asian: Pad Thai - American: Burger and fries
Look at menu only for special occasions.
Social Decisions
The Energy Check - Invitation received - Immediate gut reaction? - Energy expands = Yes - Energy contracts = No - Decide in 30 seconds
Your body knows before your mind overcomplicates.
Gift Giving Simplified - Kids: Books or art supplies - Adults: Wine or gift cards - Colleagues: Coffee or treats - Default amount: $25-30
Personal thought in card matters more than perfect gift.