Author Journey

Welcome to the Model Thinking series, where we embark on a transformative journey through the intricacies of decision-making and self-discovery. This collection of books is not merely a set of guides; it represents a philosophy—a framework that empowers you to navigate life’s complexities with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

In today’s fast-paced world, we are inundated with choices, challenges, and information. Every day, we confront decisions that can shape our paths, influence our relationships, and impact our futures. Yet, how often do we pause to consider the underlying models that inform our choices? This series invites you to reflect on the structures that shape your understanding of the world and to harness the power of model thinking in every aspect of your life.

My own journey has been diverse and multifaceted, spanning several fields that have collectively reinforced my belief in the importance of modelling. From my academic beginnings in biochemistry, where I learned to appreciate the elegant models of biological processes, to my time as a brewer, I found excitement in transforming raw materials into crafted experiences. This curiosity led me to become an early spreadsheet enthusiast, where I discovered how to visualise and analyse data, unveiling insights hidden within the numbers.

Working at a global accounting firm exposed me to the powerful role of financial modelling and projections in guiding business decisions. Here, I learned to appreciate the complexity of financial systems and the need for robust models that can forecast outcomes and assess risks. This experience deepened my understanding of how effective modelling can provide clarity in the financial landscape, guiding organisations towards sustainable growth and strategic alignment.

My journey into investment banking further sharpened my model mindset. In this fast-paced environment, I was immersed in the art of financial analysis, stock market offerings, and market assessments. The ability to build comprehensive financial models that could predict various scenarios was paramount. I learned that the right model could mean the difference between a successful transaction and a missed opportunity. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of having adaptable, insightful models that can drive decisions in high-stakes situations.

In addition to this, my passion for trading in the forex market has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of models. Operating in a technical, indicators-based environment has taught me the importance of swift analysis and adaptability. The ability to recognise patterns and leverage technical indicators is not just about trading; it’s a skill set that translates into many areas of life. The insights gained from this experience have helped me refine models that inform not only my trading strategies but also my broader decision-making processes.

Through my entrepreneurial endeavours, I embraced the challenges of building businesses from the ground up. These experiences provided rich opportunities for strategic envisioning and financial modelling. Crafting business plans, assessing market opportunities, and aligning resources all required reliable models to guide my choices. Each venture taught me valuable lessons about decision-making, adaptability, and the necessity of having dependable models to steer my path.

The Model Thinking philosophy centres around the belief that every decision is informed by a model—a simplified representation of reality that allows us to make sense of our surroundings. By breaking down complex situations into manageable components, we can identify key inputs, processes, and desired outputs. This approach empowers us to make informed decisions, anticipate potential outcomes, and adapt to changing circumstances.

In this series, each book builds on this philosophy, exploring different aspects of model thinking. From personal decision-making and group dynamics to the modelling of tangible things and action models, you will discover practical applications that can enhance your life. Whether you are seeking to improve your problem-solving skills, foster collaboration, or understand the underlying structures of society, this series offers valuable insights and actionable tools.

As you engage with these books, I encourage you to reflect on your own experiences and the models you currently use. Challenge yourself to identify areas where your thinking can be refined or expanded. This journey is not just about absorbing knowledge; it’s about transforming your perspective and empowering yourself to make choices that align with your goals and values.

Thank you for embarking on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment through model thinking. May these pages inspire you to embrace the complexities of life and navigate them with newfound clarity and confidence.

PHILLIP IKHILE
London