North Star

The North Star, or Polaris, is almost directly aligned with Earth’s rotational axis, so it appears nearly stationary in the night sky while other stars seem to rotate around it. This property makes it a reliable point for navigation in the Northern Hemisphere. Before the age of compasses and GPS, sailors relied on it as a key navigational tool. As a mental model, the North Star is a clear, ambitious long-term goal. It shows what matters most and acts as a guide for what to do next. Deciding on a North Star with a team helps define a common goal, focus, direction, and priorities.