The 10-10-10 Money Rule: Your Simple Guide to Smarter Spending

Do you ever buy something and later wonder, “Why did I spend my money on that?” If so, the 10-10-10 Rule might be the simple tool you’ve been looking for. It’s not a strict budget or a complicated formula—it’s a way to pause and think before you spend, helping you make choices that are good for both today and tomorrow.

Created by author Suzy Welch, the 10-10-10 Rule is built on three straightforward questions. Whenever you’re about to make a purchase—whether it’s a new gadget, a piece of clothing, or even a subscription—you simply ask yourself:

• How will I feel about this in 10 minutes?This question is about the immediate thrill. Will unboxing it or using it right away bring a rush of joy? It helps you spot if you’re just chasing a quick emotional high.

• What will the impact be in 10 months?Here, you shift to the practical side. Will this purchase mean adjusting your budget for months? Could it lead to credit card debt you’ll still be paying off? Or, if it’s an investment in something like a course or tool, will it start paying for itself by then?

• How will this affect my life in 10 years?This is the big-picture question. In a decade, will this purchase even be a memory? More importantly, what if you saved or invested that money instead? Could it have grown into a down payment, a stronger emergency fund, or simply more peace of mind?

This method works because it interrupts our natural habit of emotional spending. We often shop to feel better in the moment, but that excitement fades quickly, leaving us in the same place—or sometimes in a tighter spot financially. The 10-10-10 Rule acts as a gentle brake, asking you to consider the short-term feeling, the mid-term reality, and the long-term dream all at once.

Let’s apply it. Imagine you’re tempted by the latest smartphone.In 10 minutes, you’d be thrilled.In 10 months, that thrill would likely be gone, and you might still be paying it off.In 10 years, you probably wouldn’t remember the model, but the money you saved by not buying it could have grown significantly if invested. The rule doesn’t tell you “never buy it.” It helps you decide if it’s truly worth the cost to your future self.

Using the rule is easy. First, make it a habit to pause before any non-essential purchase. Second, honestly walk through the three questions. Be real with yourself—our minds are great at making excuses! Third, connect the decision to your goals. If you’re saving for a vacation or a debt-free life, does this help or hurt that plan? Finally, if you’re still unsure, wait 72 hours. If the urge to buy disappears, you’ve saved your money and gained clarity.

In the end, the 10-10-10 Rule isn’t about restriction. It’s about empowerment. It’s a simple, fast way to ensure your spending aligns with the life you’re trying to build, giving you more control and less regret over your financial choices. Try it before your next purchase—your future self will thank you.