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The Regret Minimization Framework

Posted on:March 14, 2026 at 10:00 PM

When you are stuck on a tough decision, logic often fails. Pros and cons lists get messy. Fear of failure creeps in.

Instead, try the Regret Minimization Framework.

Project yourself forward—maybe 5 years, maybe to age 80. Look back at this moment.

Ask yourself: “Will I regret not doing this?”

We rarely regret the things we tried and failed at. We almost always regret the things we never tried at all.

If the answer is “Yes, I would regret missing this chance,” then the decision is already made.

Fear is temporary; regret is forever.