How to Measure and Improve Mental Processes Like an Industrial Engineer

Why Measure Thoughts at All?

In the industrial world, what isn’t measured cannot be managed. The same principle can be applied to mental processes. When we measure our responses, the time we spend on certain thoughts, and the frequency of our behaviors, we gain a clearer and more objective picture of what’s actually happening.

Using Tools Like KPI and VSM

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) can help track progress over time. For example, you can measure how many times a day you repeat a specific check or how long a “thought loop” lasts. In addition, Value Stream Mapping (VSM) allows you to map out the entire response process to a thought and identify where time and energy are being wasted.

Building a More Efficient System Over Time

By combining measurement with continuous improvement, it becomes possible to build a more efficient thinking system. The goal is not to eliminate thoughts completely, but to improve how we respond to them. Over time, the process becomes more natural, the mental load decreases, and a greater sense of control over one’s life and mental resources is achieved.