Mental-Models

Obscure methods and mental models that change how you think about thinking. Each one a tool most people never discover. The Zettelkasten Method Note-taking system that builds a “second brain.” The origin: German sociologist Niklas Luhmann used it to write: 70 books 400+ academic articles In 40 years He said his productivity came from his Zettelkasten (slip-box). How it works: Fleeting notes: Capture ideas immediately Literature notes: Summarize what you read (in your own words) Permanent notes: One idea per note, written clearly Link notes: Connect related ideas Index: Entry points to chains of thought The magic: Your notes become a thinking partner. ...

Small concepts that rewire how your brain works. Each one short enough to read in minutes, powerful enough to change everything. Forcing Functions Designing irreversible commitments that make failure impossible. Burn the ships. Make public declarations. Put money on the line. When Cortés arrived in Mexico in 1519, he burned his ships. His soldiers couldn’t retreat. They had to win or die. Modern versions: Tweet your goal publicly Bet money you’ll finish Sign a contract with financial penalties Delete the escape route The fancy term: Ulysses contracts - named after Odysseus who tied himself to the mast to resist the Sirens’ song. ...