Reversible vs Irreversible
Most decisions are reversible doors you can walk back through.
Explanation
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos realized that most decisions can be undone if they don't work out, but we often treat them as if they're permanent. He calls irreversible decisions 'one-way doors' and reversible ones 'two-way doors.' The key insight: most decisions are two-way doors, so you can afford to move quickly and course-correct later.
Real-World Example
Reversible: Trying new job (can quit), moving cities (can move back), new product feature (can remove), dating someone (can break up), most purchases (can return/sell). Irreversible: Having kids, selling company, some surgeries, burning bridges, leaked data.
How to Apply
Ask: 'Can I undo this?' If yes: Decide with 70% information, move fast, learn by doing. If no: Slow down, gather more data, consult others. Most things are reversible with minor costs. Speed of learning beats perfection of planning. Default to action on reversible decisions.