MASTER Risk Model - How it works variables

The Science Behind the MASTER Risk Model

Every part of the MASTER Risk Model is grounded in behavioural science. Built on theory. Powered by action. Currently in real-world testing.

Minimum Actionable Variables

Minimum Actionable Variables (MAVs) are based on two complementary approaches to behaviour change.

Together, these two models make MAVs approachable and effective by lowering barriers to action, avoiding overwhelm, and ensuring every step taken creates meaningful progress.

Further reading: Principle of Least Effort (Kahneman) | Behavior Model (Fogg)

Principle of Least Effort

The Principle of Least Effort, introduced by Daniel Kahneman, shows that people naturally choose the path requiring the least effort to achieve a result. MAVs apply this insight by lowering barriers to actionso progress feels accessible and sustainable.

Behavior Model

BJ Fogg’s Behavior Model explains that behaviour happens when Motivation, Ability, and a Prompt converge. MAVs use this logic by focusing on small, timely actions that match your current ability, ensuring each step is both achievable and impactful.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Take the Assessment

Not sure Yet?

The Three Pillars

Behavior is shaped by how you think, what you can do, and the environment around you.

This framework draws on the COM-B model by Susan Michie, widely used in healthcare, education, and organizational change. It shows that Motivation, Capability, and Opportunity must align for meaningful behaviour change.

Lean More

The Risk Zones

You respond to challenge differently, sometimes you grow, sometimes you freeze, depending on the pressure.

The Risk Zones are based on Lev Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development and the Yerkes-Dodson Law by Robert Yerkes and John Dillingham Dodson, which together explain how performance shifts depending on the level of challenge or support.

Lean More

Risk Profiles and Strategies

Each Risk Profile reflects a specific combination of Mindset, Abilities, and Situation, and helps determine your most effective strategy.

These strategies are grounded in strengths theory by Donald O. Clifton and Peter Drucker, learning theory from Lev Vygotsky, and systems thinking from Peter Senge and Steven Fink.

Lean More

Minimum Actionable Variables

Big change doesn’t start with big moves, it starts with clear, achievable steps that build momentum.

Minimum Actionable Variables are grounded in Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg and Deliberate Practice by Anders Ericsson, showing how small, intentional actions lead to meaningful, lasting growth.

Lean More

The Three Dimensions of Learning

You grow most when you combine three powerful elements: building knowledge, sharpening how you think, and applying what you learn.

Each can work on its own, but together they create stronger skills and change that lasts.

Lean More