Decisions follow the path from point A to point B with purpose

Hard - Requires significant effort Recommended

You’re at a crossroads: a steady but dull job or that half-formed idea you can’t stop thinking about. Which path takes you from where you are (point A) toward the person you want to become (point B)? Without clarity, you drift—maybe picking the safe route, or choosing impulsively. A simple “compass model” helps. Draw your start and destination on paper, map out three possible routes, then score each by how well they align with your priorities: your growth needs, your top values, and your long-held dreams.

Decision science shows that people who anchor their choices to a clear vision are more satisfied and achieve higher success rates. Those who don’t typically feel stuck or regretful. By evaluating each route’s fit against your own map, you reduce random pivots and speed up momentum toward your goals.

Whether it’s choosing a school program, a new job, or a creative project, this compass keeps you laser focused. The next time you feel lost, it reminds you why you matter, where you’re headed, and which choices serve your highest purpose.

Grab a blank sheet, mark point A and the-best-version-of-you at point B, and brainstorm three potential routes. Score each by its alignment with your priorities and pick the highest-scoring option. Break that path into three micro-goals this week—maybe pitching your idea, enrolling in a class, or publishing your first blog post—and set calendar reminders. By tying every choice directly to your vision, you’ll discover each decision becomes a step toward your greatest self.

What You'll Achieve

You’ll gain a structured tool to make clear, purpose-aligned choices—boosting confidence, reducing second-guessing, and speeding progress toward measurable milestones.

Use a compass decision-making model

1

Draw points A and B on paper

Label A as your current situation and B as the best-version-of-you you want to become. This anchors your start and end goals visually.

2

List three possible paths

Under each path, write the key steps or choices you’d need to make. Even quick bullet points help lay out alternative routes to your goal.

3

Evaluate each path’s fit

For each option, note how well it serves your priority needs and aligns with your life principle. Rate them 1–5 for alignment and feasibility.

4

Choose your compass path

Select the highest-scoring route and break it into three mini-milestones you can tackle this week. Plot them on your calendar to make progress visible.

Reflection Questions

  • What does my current A-to-B map look like today?
  • Which path most aligns with my core values and needs?
  • What’s one micro-milestone I can schedule this week?

Personalization Tips

  • A student aiming for a creative career maps paths through design school, online courses, or self-guided projects.
  • An entrepreneur eyeing growth sketches paths via organic reach, paid ads, or strategic partnerships.
  • An aspiring author evaluates routes through self-publishing, traditional agents, or serialized blogging to build an audience.
The Rhythm of Life: Living Every Day with Passion and Purpose
← Back to Book

The Rhythm of Life: Living Every Day with Passion and Purpose

Matthew Kelly 1999
Insight 4 of 8

Ready to Take Action?

Get the Mentorist app and turn insights like these into daily habits.