3 Eye-Opening Mental Models for Self-Discovery

Have you ever found yourself standing at life’s crossroads, uncertain of which path to take? I’ve been there, and I can tell you it’s a perplexing experience. Over time, I’ve stumbled upon three eye-opening mental models that have served as my trusty compass, guiding me through the maze of self-discovery.

Buckle up as I will tell you about the mysteries of these mental models.

Model 1: The “Ikigai” Intersection

Have you ever asked yourself what truly makes you come alive?

This is the core question at the heart of the Ikigai model.

Picture a Venn diagram where your passion, mission, vocation, and profession intersect.

Now, reflect on what you love doing. What activities make time fly for you? What brings you joy and fulfillment?

How can these activities align with the needs of the world around you?

As you ponder these questions, consider your skills and what you’re good at.

What are the things that come naturally to you?

How can these skills be utilized to make a positive impact?

The intersection of these elements is your Ikigai — a powerful guide to what you want in life.

Also Read: How to Achieve Success and Self-Satisfaction with this Formula

Model 2: The “Anti-Bucket List” Philosophy

When was the last time you took a step back to evaluate what truly matters in your life?

The Anti-Bucket List philosophy encourages you to do just that.

Consider the people, experiences, and activities that drain your energy or create negativity in your life.

What toxic relationships or habits would you like to eliminate?

Reflect on these aspects, and then ask yourself: What would my life look like without these burdens?

Now, flip the script and imagine the space you’d create by letting go of what you don’t want.

What desires and aspirations could fill that void?

By identifying what you want to avoid, you pave the way for a more intentional and fulfilling life.

Model 3: The “10–10–10 Rule” for Decision-Making

Life is a series of decisions, and sometimes, the weight of those decisions can be overwhelming.

How do you navigate this complexity?

Suzy Welch’s 10–10–10 Rule provides a valuable framework.

When faced with a decision, ask yourself: How will I feel about this choice in 10 minutes?

How about in 10 months?

And most importantly, how will this decision impact me in 10 years?

Digging deeper, consider the long-term consequences of your choices. 

What aligns with your core values and long-term goals?

What sacrifices are you willing to make for immediate gains, and what are the potential repercussions?

The 10–10–10 Rule forces you to explore the dimensions of your decisions, helping you align them with what you truly want in the grand scheme of life.

Also Read: 12 Harsh Real-Life Advice You Didn’t Ask for But Need to Hear

Final Thought

Life’s journey is a quest to uncover what we truly want.

These three mental models — Ikigai, the Anti-Bucket List, and the 10–10–10 Rule — have been my companions on this odyssey.

Remember, self-discovery is an ongoing process, and these models are not rigid formulas but flexible frameworks to help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of your desires and aspirations.

As you embark on your own journey of self-discovery, embrace the fluidity of these models.

Allow them to evolve with you, guiding you through the twists and turns of life.

After all, the beauty of self-discovery lies not just in the destination but in the transformative journey itself.

So, go ahead, explore, reflect, and let these mental models illuminate the path to what you truly want in life.

---

Hey there, amazing readers!

Your support and love for my writing mean the world to me. If you’ve been enjoying my stories and articles, how about taking our connection to the next level?

Join me on Buy Me a Coffee and buy me a coffee (or two). Your support keeps my creativity fueled, and together we’ll continue this incredible adventure! Just click here:https://bmc.link/askaleax8

Thank you for being awesome!