Characterizing the decay of the microstructure of a drilling fluid gel using a model based on two exponential functions. Based on the model, identify at least two components of the decay model comprising a fast decay component and a slow decay component, wherein the fast decay component decays more quickly than the slow decay component. The decay of the microstructure of the gel over a time period can be determined using a rheometer or viscometer. Wellbore processes, including start up and tripping operations can be optimized based on the determination of the fast decay component and/or a slow decay component of the drilling fluid gel.