second order principle.

I like to say that Future Jack can handle those problems. Present Jack can take the option that feels good now, then be surprised when the actions of my consequences arrive.

Second-order thinking means evaluating not just the immediate outcome, for Present Jack. But the consequences that follow from that outcome, for Future Jack.

It shows up pretty clearly when the consequences are shown, but in the immediate, it looks like:
• Choosing speed for relief of the problem.
• You avoid a hard conversation and rent friction in your head with resentment.
• You take the easiest fix and create a repeat problem.
• You chase a short-term win, or relief that allows people to view you in a less-than-optimal light.

When this happens, it's important to:
• Slow down. Just 30 seconds. First-order thinking is immediate. It's natural.
• Use the Consequence Ladder: Map the next consequences before you act.
• Ask who gets trained. Every choice teaches you and other people what you have to offer and what they can expect from you.
• Check time horizon mismatches. How can this help you immediately but ultimately cause you chaos.
• Identify reversible moves. If you can't see the ladder of consequences, then you shouldn't make a decision that can affect it, when you do eventually see it.

For the consequence ladder:

Ask yourself:
• If I do this (x), what happens next? What happens immediately after?
• Then what becomes easier or harder?
• What behavior does this reinforce?
• What problem will I face that can be bigger than this one?

The goal isn't to predict perfectly. It's to prevent the Oh Shit moments that happen.

So if someone keeps crossing a boundary. First-order thinking says: ignore it to keep peace.
Immediate outcome: no conflict.

Second-order outcome: you teach them the boundary is fake.
Third-order outcome: you become resentful, and now the conversation is harder, louder, and later than it needed to be.

A better move might be smaller but earlier: one clear sentence, once.
Short-term discomfort. Long-term stability.

If you want better outcomes, stop choosing based on how it feels today.
Choose based on what it creates tomorrow.