So this week, we’ve discussed how you can apply common sense to:
But I’ve left out one bit of common sense that can be applied to every step of the job process, and almost every step of your life. It’s something that is so simple that once you start implementing it, you’ll wonder how you ever went without it, and why so few people do it.
It’s called the three-second rule.
Those of you who are ardent followers of Neil Strauss or readers of his best-selling book, The Game, may be familiar with the concept in its capacity in pick-up artistry. Basically, it’s a tactic to prevent over-thinking by acting within a certain amount of time from seeing someone. In the case of pick-up, it’s approaching someone in a bar.
But this isn’t a dating blog.
The three-second rule makes perfect sense when you think about it: you’re acting on your instincts. Instead of second-guessing yourself, you’re diving right in. And while some people might call this being bull-headed, cocky or charging in without a plan, you’ll actually be taking advantage of an opportunity.
I’ve had many regrets about things I didn’t do, but few about those I did. When a friend called me up, asking if I wanted to move to Washington, DC and start a record label with him, I didn’t hesitate. And although there were more headaches and problems than I would care to admit, I learned more about how to run a business, managing others, how to handle crises and myself than I ever thought was possible. And it took me two seconds to make that initial decision.
I’ve applied to jobs because they looked interesting versus noting the overall utility that they might have for my career. I’ve picked up projects because of who I was working with rather than what I was going to do. And heck, this blog was started thanks to the three-second rule.
If you want to apply the three-second rule to your own life, you don’t have to start big – it can be something as simple as making an executive decision on what to have for dinner, what to watch on TV, or what shirt to buy. As your confidence in your decision-making prowess grows, so too will your ability to make informed and educated decisions in a lot less time.
Most decisions come down to a simple yes or no question. And most debates come down to a list of pros and cons. And whether it’s about your job, your hobbies, your friends or any aspect of your life, it really doesn’t take more than three seconds to decide.
So whether you’re still on the job hunt, an office neophyte, an experienced worker or someone who’s just looking for a more efficient way to do things, remember that common sense is one of the best tools you have in your arsenal.
