No. 135 · Work · Physics
Momentum
Progress builds on itself: early wins make the next ones easier, and slides gather speed too.
In the Almanac
“Garibaldi’s Thousand”, 1860 · “Crocs”, 2019–2021
Both stories in full, three ways to use it and where it misleads.
Get the AlmanacQuestions
What is Momentum?
In physics, momentum is mass times velocity: the heavier and faster something moves, the harder it is to stop. As a mental model, it describes how early wins attract confidence, support and resources that make the next win easier. The same force works in reverse, as setbacks and debts gather speed too.
How do you use Momentum?
To use it, sequence goals so a visible quick win comes first. Protect daily streaks in learning and habits, since restarting from a standstill is costly. Catch downward slides early, before they accelerate. And keep checking direction, because momentum can hide problems.
When does Momentum matter?
Momentum is one of the 43 mental models for work, the situations where you ask: How do I get the right things done? Within that, it belongs to “Getting started and keeping going”, alongside Activation Energy, Catalysts and Compounding Effect.
What is an example of Momentum?
Two stories show it at work: Garibaldi’s Thousand (1860) and Crocs (2019–2021). Both are told in full in The Mental Models Daily Almanac, which has two stories for each of its 365 models.
Which mental models are related to Momentum?
Inertia, Flywheel and Compounding Effect. Momentum itself comes from physics.