There is a popular algorithm called the optimal stopping rule—which is frequently referred to as the 37% rule and sometimes called the look-then-leap rule—that solves the problem of when to take a specific course of action versus continuing to deliberate. Here’s a common use case: Let’s say you’re a hiring manager interviewing candidates for an open role in your organization, and you’re obligated to render a yea or nay decision immediately after interviewing each candidate because there are no second chances. According to the optimal stopping rule, you should automatically pass on the first 37% of the candidates in the applicant pool and then extend an offer to the first interviewed candidate who rates higher than every previous candidate.