The Yes/No Rule: How to Make Decision Quickly

Have you ever been stuck in a situation where you couldn’t decide what to do? Maybe you were unsure about taking a new job, buying something expensive or even saying yes to a new opportunity. Making decisions can be stressful and time consuming sometimes. But what if there was a simple way to decide quickly? That’s where the Yes/No Rule comes in. 

The Yes/No Rule is a simple decision-making method that helps you avoid overthinking. The rule is easy:

• If you instantly feel a strong YES, go for it.
• If you hesitate or feel unsure, it’s a NO.

This method was created to help people make choices faster and more confidently. Instead of spending hours thinking about pros and cons.  Even world leaders use the Yes/No Rule to make quick and effective decisions. In 2013, US President Barack Obama used three Yes/No questions to decide on drone strikes. He would only approve a strike if all three questions were answered with a “Yes”:

1. Does the targeted person pose a persistent and immediate threat to the American people?
2. Is the USA the only country that can deal with this threat?
3. Will civilians almost certainly not be harmed?

The following flowchart represents the decision-making process based on the Yes/No Rule used in these situations:

The flowchart simplifies the process. If the target poses an immediate threat, the decision-maker evaluates if they are the only one who can handle it and whether civilians will be harmed. Only if all answers are "Yes" does the action proceed.

Here are some examples of how you can use this rule:

• Job Offers: say yes  If you immediately feel excited about the job. If you have doubts, it’s a no.
• Buying Something Expensive: If you are 100% sure you want it, buy it. If you hesitate, skip it.
• New Opportunities: If an opportunity excites you instantly, take it. If not, let it go.
• Relationships and Friendships: If you feel happy around someone, keep them in your life. If you feel drained, it’s okay to step back.

Recently, I started using this technique and it has changed my life. Before, I used to spend hours thinking about decisions. Now I decide in seconds. I feel more confident and less stressed. 

The Yes/No Rule is a game-changer. It makes decision-making quick and easy. Next time you are stuck, just ask yourself- Do I feel an instant YES? If not, it’s a NO. Try it and see how much easier your life becomes.

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