Regret Minimization

In Dangerous Romances, I talked about how to grow from mistakes instead of dying from regrets.

However, I'm not a sadist. I don't want to get my soul shattered every time I take a step forward all in the name of "growth."

I do prefer to have the deck stacked in my favor as much as possible before I make a decision and not get obliterated.

It is 100% wired into our biology to be averse to risk. Google "loss aversion" and multiple studies will appear showing you how we remember the pain from losses at 2x the intensity than we do the pleasure from wins.

This often comes up with a company Founder looking to start their own venture.

So how do you get around this?

When you're about to make what feels like a risky decision, literally ask yourself, "What is the worst thing that can happen to me if this is a bad decision?"

Nw ask yourself, "Can I live with this?"

If the answer is, "Yes." Then proceed. Don't get bogged down in the details by saying "Yes, but..." or "No, but..."

Just ask yourself, "Can I handle this if the worst happens from this decision?"

Whenever you get a "yes" from yourself, then it's time to take the next steps.

Minimize the regret you need so you can take action on your important work.