SELF-MASTERYMonths to result

The 90/10 Rule

90% wrong, 10% gems

Problem it solves

constant distraction and fragmented attention

Best for

Individuals seeking to learn from others and filter out unnecessary information

Not ideal for

Those who are not open to criticism or feedback

Overview

Why this framework exists

The 90/10 Rule is a mental model that suggests that 90% of what we learn is incorrect or unnecessary, while 10% is valuable and worth building upon. This framework encourages individuals to be critical of the information they receive and to focus on extracting the valuable insights.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Be critical of the information you receive
  2. Focus on extracting valuable insights
  3. Don't be afraid to challenge assumptions

Steps

3 steps
  1. Evaluate Information
    Critically evaluate the information you receive, considering the source and potential biases.
    Pro tipSeek out diverse perspectives to gain a more comprehensive understanding
    WarningBe cautious of confirmation bias and the tendency to only seek out information that confirms your existing beliefs
  2. Extract Valuable Insights
    Identify the valuable 10% of information that is worth building upon, and focus on extracting those insights.
    Pro tipUse active listening skills to fully understand the information being presented
    WarningBe careful not to dismiss potentially valuable information due to preconceived notions or biases
  3. Apply the 90/10 Rule
    Apply the 90/10 Rule to your learning and decision-making processes, recognizing that 90% of the information you receive may be incorrect or unnecessary.
    Pro tipUse the 90/10 Rule as a guiding principle for evaluating information and making decisions
    WarningBe aware of the potential for the 90/10 Rule to become a self-fulfilling prophecy, where you only focus on the 10% and dismiss the remaining 90% without consideration

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Mike Menser's Advice

Mike Menser's advice to focus on the valuable 10% of information and to be critical of the remaining 90% is an example of the 90/10 Rule in action.

OutcomeBy following Mike's advice, individuals can learn to extract valuable insights and make more informed decisions

Common mistakes

2 traps
Dismissing Valuable Information
Dismissing potentially valuable information due to preconceived notions or biases can lead to missed opportunities and a lack of growth
Focusing Too Much on the 90%
Focusing too much on the 90% of incorrect or unnecessary information can lead to frustration and a lack of progress

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The 90/10 Rule was mentioned by Mike Menser, a coach and mentor, who emphasized the importance of filtering out unnecessary information and focusing on the valuable 10%.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
Build Muscle & Strength & Forge Your Life Path | Dorian Yates
Andrew Huberman · 2026
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