Building something of value — whether it’s a software system, a community, or a life — is as much about how we see as it is about what we do. The most effective builders aren’t just those with the best tools, but those with the clearest mental models.
A mental model is a simplified representation of how something works. It’s a lens through which we interpret the world. For builders, a few key models are essential for navigating the inherent complexity of creation.
1. The Power Law of Effort
Most things follow a power law: 80% of the results come from 20% of the effort. A builder’s job is to identify that critical 20% and focus on it relentlessly. This is the difference between being “busy” and being “effective.”
2. Inversion: Start with the Failure
Instead of asking, “How do I make this project succeed?” ask, “What are all the ways this project could fail?” Then, work backward to avoid those outcomes. This simple shift in perspective can reveal hidden risks and assumptions.
3. The Second-Order Effect
Every action has a reaction, but the most important effects are often the ones that happen next. When we change a piece of code, add a new feature, or make a decision, we must consider the second-order consequences. How will this decision affect the system, the team, and the users six months from now?
By cultivating these mental models, we can see the unseen patterns and make more informed decisions as we build.