3.1.7 — Application Exercise

This exercise is designed to transition mental models from abstract understanding into active practice. The purpose is not only to evaluate comprehension, but to begin strengthening cognitive discipline — shifting from instinctive reasoning to structured, principle-based decision-making.

Instructions

Identify one recurring decision in your current work or leadership context. This should be a decision that:

• Reappears frequently
• Requires thoughtful consideration or trade-offs
• Has meaningful impact on strategy, execution, or long-term focus

Examples include prioritizing projects, allocating resources, approving initiatives, negotiating expectations, or evaluating opportunities.

Select one mental model explored in this lesson — such as First Principles, Opportunity Cost, or Second-Order Thinking.

Apply your chosen model to reinterpret the decision. Use it as a filter to:

• Challenge assumptions
• Reveal hidden trade-offs
• Clarify underlying patterns
• Identify blind spots or overlooked variables
• Restructure your reasoning with greater clarity and intention

Then, write one concise paragraph (6–10 sentences) explaining how applying the mental model changed your perspective. Reflect on:

• What shifted in your reasoning
• What became clearer or irrelevant
• What assumptions no longer hold
• Whether the structure or confidence of your decision changed

Purpose of the Exercise

This exercise helps you experience the practical transition from reactive reasoning to structured, model-based analysis. The goal is not perfection — the goal is awareness. By applying a single mental model to a real, recurring decision, you begin establishing the habit of intentional thinking — a habit that improves clarity, strengthens consistency, and accelerates strategic decision-making.

Guiding Reflection Questions (Optional Support)

If helpful, consider the following prompts:

• Did the mental model simplify or complicate the decision — and why?
• What assumptions surfaced that were previously unexamined?
• What trade-offs or long-term consequences became more visible?
• How might this model improve future decision-making if applied consistently?

Mental models become operational only when used. This exercise marks the first step in integrating structured reasoning into your leadership practice — transforming not only how you think, but how you decide and lead.