The Architecture of Impact

An impact framework.
Effort is the constant. The architecture around it is the variable. Read for what each component produces, not the score on any one.
Impact
Dimension A · Depth
Δ  How much better than alternative
Dimension B · Breadth
 How many people reached
▼   both dimensions produced by the four components below   ▼
+
Component 01 · Builds
Leverage
Structural multiplier How far work extends beyond your own hours
↳ determined by altitude
L5Systems
L4Strategy
L3Process
L2Project
L1Task
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Component 02 · Builds
Insight
Specific knowledge Pattern-matching built through direct immersion
Phase judgment Knowing which work matters now
Irreducible multiplier Low leverage + exceptional insight still reshapes fields
Component 03 · Drains
Entropy
No value created Work that doesn't compound into outcomes
No learning gained Effort without specific knowledge earned
No momentum built Activity that fails to unlock the next step
Misaligned incentives Systems rewarding activity over impact
Component 04 · Drains
Energy Cost
Hours Time the work demands from you
Attention Cognitive load & context-switching
Physical capacity Bodily stamina required
Emotional capacity Stress tolerance & resilience
▼ WHAT TO PRIORITIZE BY PHASE ▼
Phase determines the gear
P1

Building

◆ Insight is the priority

Do the unscalable. Forge specific knowledge through direct contact with the problem.

P2

Growing

◆ Leverage begins to compound

Systematize what works. First processes, first hires. Manual becomes scalable.

P3

Scaling

◆ Strategy sets the pace

Set direction. Allocate. Ground-level insight keeps strategy concrete.

P4

Sustaining

◆ Entropy needs managing

Maintain leverage against drag from misaligned incentives and accumulated complexity.