The 1D mind represents our primal animal mind and is the seat of our impulses and emotions such as fear. It is focused on a singular mission—survival. The 1D mind is guided by inputs from our senses and shaped by our experiences. It is critical for rapid responses to ensure survival. But overusing the 1D mind can lead to stress, hamper decision-making, and sabotage success.

The 2D mind represents our rational, critical, and analytical thinking capabilities—our intellect. It is also the seat of our sense of identity or ego. The 2D mind guides our decisions and actions and drives our progress and productivity. Yet, the 2D mind’s weaknesses can lead to analysis paralysis, ego-driven decisions, or limiting ways of thinking through and solving challenges.

The 3D mind is the source of our insights and intuition and our creative and innovative potential. It leads us to our true passion, meaning, and purpose. It introduces empathy, compassion, and authenticity into our interactions with each other and in the world. It also leads us to generate new ideas and solve complex challenges. Most of us use the 3D mind much below its potential.

Being in the 1D mind is akin to driving a car through the city. You can move through it relatively quickly and do some basic sightseeing. Yet, what you learn is limited because you are confined to roads.

Being in the 2D mind is akin to being a pedestrian. You can stroll through alleys, talk to locals, and visit shops and restaurants. This is a much deeper experience yet it still limits you to traversing a 2-dimensional surface.

Being in the 3D mind is akin to taking a helicopter ride over the city. You attain a bird’s eye view, see the landscape and vistas of its terrain and roads, and gain new insights that an on-the-ground view cannot reveal.