Three Shifts Framework

A simple but powerful framework for making meaningful life changes by focusing on 3 key shifts and consistently reinforcing them through weekly review and aligned actions.

Core Components

• Write down 3 big shifts/changes wanted for the year
• Focus only on areas that need improvement, not what's already working well
• Review and rewrite these shifts weekly in a dedicated space (e.g. Slack)
• Connect daily actions explicitly to these shifts
• Avoid activities not aligned with the shifts (with rare exceptions)

Decision Making Process

• When faced with opportunities or decisions:
  • Check if action aligns with one of the 3 shifts
  • If it doesn't align, generally don't do it
  • Make very rare exceptions only when truly warranted

Reaction vs Response Framework

• Reaction: Making decisions in the moment based on emotions (usually fear or greed)
• Response: Making decisions after:
  • Letting emotions cool off
  • Using logical rationale that can be written down
  • Considering and writing down counterarguments
  • Evaluating which argument (for or against) is stronger

Market Volatility Application

• When markets crash, follow two-step process:
  1. Assess if there's an existential crisis ("wolf at the door")
  2. If no crisis:
     • Do nothing for 30-90 days
     • Reassess situation after cooling period
     • Stick to original plan unless fundamental change needed

Key Principles

• Take simple ideas very seriously
• Pick few things that matter and execute them well
• Focus on reinforcing desired changes consistently
• Avoid emotional decision-making
• Maintain long-term perspective despite short-term volatility