Every worry is either actionable or not. This tool forces the question, then gives a one‑next‑step suggestion for each branch. Inspired by the classic Butler & Fennell worry tree.
The next step is the smallest concrete move that gets you 5% closer to resolving this. Be specific (with a time, if you can).
You can't influence the outcome right now. The work shifts from "fix" to "carry." Three honest options:
Most worry loops persist because the brain can't tell the difference between "things I should solve" and "things I can only witness." Forcing the branch makes the difference visible, and gives each branch a different job.
Most people discover that 70–80% of their worries sit in the "not actionable" branch. That's the relief — those worries were never going to be solved by thinking harder.
The branch decision is your call, but it's also a snap judgment. Some worries look "not actionable" but actually contain a small action ("check the email"). Give yourself a 30‑second pause before choosing.
It usually isn't, but if it is, pick the smaller actionable piece first. Then re‑branch the rest.
That's the point. Big steps get avoided. Small steps compound. 25 minutes is more than zero minutes.