Template Guide part 1

VSM Step 1 Guide: Individual Focus (System 5 and System 1 Alignment)

This guide is designed for personal use, to help you understand and align your daily activities (System 1) with your core identity and purpose (System 5). By following these steps, you will review your current tasks, evaluate how they reflect your identity, and make adjustments where needed to ensure alignment.

Step 1: Define Your Identity (System 5)

System 5 in the VSM defines identity, your purpose, and core values. Start by reflecting on what shapes who you are and how you see yourself.

1.1 Philosophies and Paradigms

• Philosophies: Write down any guiding belief systems that form your worldview (e.g., Stoicism, existentialism, pragmatism). • Example: “I believe in living with purpose and clarity, driven by minimalist values.” • Paradigms: List any conceptual frameworks or movements you follow that influence how you live your life (e.g., minimalist living, self-reliance). • Example: “I follow a ‘less is more’ paradigm, applying it to my daily decisions and lifestyle.”

1.2 Human Scale Development (HSD)

Reflect on how your fundamental human needs are being met. Consider the nine needs: subsistence, protection, affection, understanding, participation, idleness, creation, identity, and freedom.

• Which needs are being fully satisfied, and which are not? • How are you currently satisfying each need? • Example: “I satisfy my need for creation through painting but often neglect idleness and time for rest.”

1.3 Biological Systems (11 Human Systems)

Evaluate your biological health and the functioning of your bodily systems. Write a brief note on how your physical health aligns with your identity.

• Example: “I feel that my physical energy (circulatory and nervous systems) is lacking due to poor sleep, which affects my productivity.”

1.4 Attitudes

Break down your attitudes in four main areas:

• Cultural Attitudes: Consider how social expectations, values, and protocols influence your identity. • Example: “I place a high value on honesty and clarity in communication, which guides my relationships.” • Scientific Attitudes: How do you approach knowledge and learning? • Example: “I believe in empirical reasoning and prefer to rely on data when making decisions.” • Emotional Attitudes: How do you manage your emotional experiences? • Example: “I strive for emotional balance, using mindfulness to stay aware of my feelings.” • Propositional Attitudes: What beliefs or propositions shape your worldview? • Example: “I hold a strong belief in lifelong learning and the possibility of personal growth.”

1.5 Summary of Identity

Summarize your identity and purpose. This is a synthesis of all your reflections so far:

• Example: “I am a creative minimalist who values growth, clear communication, and simplicity in all aspects of life. My goal is to live with purpose and balance, aligning my actions with my core values.”

Step 2: Review Your Current Operations (System 1)