The Thumbs System For Quick Decision-Making

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The Thumbs System For Quick Decision-Making
Blake Emal
August 1, 2024

We make hundreds of decisions each day — it can be exhausting. But the Thumbs System is a powerful technique to make quick, clear choices without excessive cognitive load.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Train your assistant to frame questions that only require you to give a simple “yes”, “no”, or “I need more information” whenever possible.
  2. Use simple, visual cues for responses:
    1. Thumbs up emoji 👍 = Yes
    2. Thumbs down 👎 = No
    3. Another emoji = Need more information (maybe ❓)
  3. For anything else, ask your assistant to offer numbered choices so you can indicate your preference easily.

The Thumbs System will speed up decision-making, reduce decision fatigue, and train your assistant to simplify complex issues into digestible summaries and clear options for you.