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Project MindsetSpecial Operations
Field Manual

Part I · Chapter 5

How Experiences Shape Beliefs and Behavior

The nine core beliefs and where they usually come from.

Section 1

Common core beliefs

From the Mission Map

These are the core beliefs the Mission Map works with, each with its faith-based counterpart and where it usually comes from.

“I'm not safe.”

Often wired in by real danger: combat, a violent home, a moment where safety disappeared without warning.

Faith-based version: “I can handle what comes, and I don't have to handle it alone.”

Drives 4 squares on the map, highlighted below.

Section 2

The downward arrow

From the Mission Map

To find a core belief, take one thought and ask: "If that's true, what does it say about me?" Answer it, then ask again about your answer. Keep going until you hit something that feels like bedrock. That's your core belief.

Common ones for vets: I'm not safe. I'm not enough. I can't trust anyone. I'm broken. I'm alone. If I'm not in control, it all falls apart. Without the mission, I don't matter.

Section 3

One belief, many squares

From the Mission Map

One core belief can put you on "No-go" in your head, "Gone dark" in your heart, and "Hair trigger" in your gut, all at once. When you dig a belief, the game shows every square it's connected to.

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