10% - What makes it life changing for you?

In recent conversations with various friends and associates, a reoccuring theme emerged around the number 10% - behind the headlines - real lives - real decisions.

Some are friends in local and state government responding to mandatory furlough days here in California - resulting in a 10% cut in pay (90% are taking the cut, 10% are spared)

In the commercial business sector, some are in the 10% of employees let go - in retail, marketing, and other industries and service sectors. Self-employed friends have seen consulting contracts, orders or appointments drop by 10% and are adjusting expectations.

Still others decided that 10% was what they would save now (an age old "rainy day" recommendation to heed off tough times) or what they would cut back by now to prepare for the unforseen.

Many are predicting 10% unemployment nationwide before things turn around (in California, we have already exceeded that)

Finally, on an up note, the bravest are cutting back by 10% to find room and resources to finally "invest in change" - for retraining, innovation, creation, remaking their lives or others.

When I asked everyone of these friends if less than 10% change would have made significant adjustments necessary, usually the answer was no. No one wanted to contemplate 20%.

So what connects 10% as the number for actionable change?

My objective here is to document my thoughts on 10%, gather others insights on this number and hope that in reflecting on this, meaningful themes emerge for others.

In a play off of a credit card company ad, I'll ask, "What's in your 10%?"