And Then What?
I’ve been thinking a lot about the power of one deceptively simple question:
“And then what?”
This question, I’ve realized, is a mental tool that helps reframe an event that hasn’t even happened yet … as though it already has.
And by doing that, it nudges my mind into exploring what comes next.
It’s like a mental simulation. It lets me see the ripple effects of a decision before it happens.
Because here’s the thing, a lot of the time, we chase something because we think it’ll get us what we want.
Then we get there… and realize it doesn’t.
So we try again.
Different chase, same ending.
Einstein’s definition of insanity.
But the question “And then what?” helps break that loop.
At the very least, it forces us to ask:
“How will I feel if I actually get what I want?”
Without that question, we’re just stuck wondering whether I’ll get it.
And that’s the trap.
Because there is a real opportunity cost and that is if don’t feel how you expect to feel after getting what you want!
Let’s say I’m considering a higher-paying job.
I ask: “And then what?”
I’ll have more important, have more money.
Okay.
And then what?
I will have to work longer hours, travel more so I’ll have less time.
Less time means not being able to watch my son train, travel with my wife to watch his tournaments.
And that makes me feel less satisfied.
Suddenly, I realize: I’m chasing satisfaction and that is not directly linked to status and money.
And money and status at the expense of time with family?
That’s a trade that makes things worse, not better.
So now I’m not just asking whether I’ll get the job.
I’m asking whether the job gets me what I actually care about.
But the same question could lead me the other way.
Maybe I ask, “And then what?”
And I realize the extra income means I can pay off debt faster.
Send my kid to a private school.
Feel more secure.
That version?
Maybe it does increase my satisfaction.
Maybe I should take the job.
That’s the power of this question.
It reframes the choice based on what you value.
And that’s the point.
There’s no right answer.
There’s just your answer.
You just have to ask.
And then what?