What are Mental Models?
- A representation of how the world works
- Simplifications of complex systems to aid understanding
- Limited by individual knowledge and experience
Importance of Mental Models
- Provide a toolbox for problem-solving and decision-making
- Help to identify blind spots and limitations
- Enable more effective communication and collaboration
Map is Not the Territory
- The representation of reality is not reality itself
- Be aware of the limitations and imperfections of models and maps
Circle of Competence
- Identify areas of expertise and knowledge
- Recognize when decisions fall outside of your circle of competence
- Consult experts when necessary
Second-Order Thinking
- Consider the consequences of consequences
- Think holistically and anticipate long-term effects
Probabilistic Thinking
- Estimate the likelihood of outcomes using math and logic
- Assign probabilities to events to make more accurate decisions
Inversion
- Identify obstacles to success and remove them
- Think about what failure looks like and avoid it
Occam’s Razor
- Prefer simpler explanations over complex ones
- Base decisions on the explanation with the fewest moving parts
Hanlon’s Razor
- Do not attribute to maliciousness what can be explained by incompetence
- Assume ignorance or circumstance rather than malice
Reciprocity
- Treat others with kindness and expect kindness in return
- Recognize that actions have consequences and reactions
Activation Energy
- Identify the energy required to start a task or project
- Use catalysts to lower the activation energy and make progress easier
References