In business, we saw that the 80/20 principle involves analyzing which 20 percent of inputs create 80 percent of outputs. However, in your daily life, performing such an analysis; finding 20% efficient habits/rituals etc. can be challenging. This is where 80/20 thinking comes into play. Traditional thinking follows a linear approach and assumes that all causes and inputs hold equal importance. For example, we’re often taught as children that all our friends are equally valuable.

80/20 thinking, on the other hand, recognizes that not every relationship is of equal significance. Some of our friends are more important than others, and the connections we share with them are more meaningful. Roughly 20 percent of your friendships may provide about 80 percent of the “value” in terms of joy and camaraderie that you derive from these relationships.

The crucial distinction between an 80/20 analysis and 80/20 thinking is that the analysis involves collecting and analyzing data to identify the most important 20 percent. In 80/20 thinking, you estimate them based on your understanding. While the value of your relationships can’t be measured in exact numbers, you can ask yourself questions like, “Who are the most important people in my life? How much quality time do I spend with them each week?” These questions help you identify your most significant relationships.

80/20 thinking suggests that you prioritize quality over quantity and concentrate on deepening the most valuable and meaningful 20 percent of your relationships. This type of thinking can be applied to various life areas without requiring concrete data.