In trail running, every stick is a snake until proven otherwise.

In business you also have to quickly evaluate risks. You’ll rarely have all the information to make a perfect decision. The key is deciding whether you can continue down the path, or give a wide berth to the hazard and find another way.

The Marine Corps teaches a simple solution to its officers to make decisions on the battle field that applies when lack all the info:

The 70% Solution

To overcome the “fog of war” Marine Corps officers are told make decisions with 70% of what they need.

70% of the intel you need: You can make good decisions as long as you have most of the information. Just remember you’ll have to adjust later on as you get more intel.

70% of the resources you need: Many times a good team is enough to reach objectives. Good teams will find creative solutions to adapt and overcome the situation.

70% confidence in your plan: Do you feel good about your plan with the intel and resources you have? Most times a good plan combined with initiative is better than doing nothing.

This framework helps you balance caution and courage so you don’t get paralyzed by fear but also don’t run blindly into danger.

Use this and you will make faster, better decisions.