Where Would You Intervene?

The Attention Economy & Digital Overload, Source: Linkedin

Donella Meadows showed us that not all points in a system hold the same power for change—some are far more impactful than others. This month, let’s sharpen our systems thinking by applying her leverage points framework to two pressing, real-world challenges.

Challenge: Where’s the Leverage?

We invite you to step into the mindset of a systems thinker and analyze one of the following:

The Attention Economy & Digital Overload

The Attention Economy & Digital Overload Conceptual CLD

• Social media, notifications, and algorithms shape what we see, think, and focus on.

• Question: If you could intervene in this system, where would you place a leverage point for positive change? Would you adjust algorithms, change platform incentives, or introduce digital well-being policies?

Food Systems & Supply Chains

Food Systems & Supply Chains Conceptual CLD

• The journey from farm to table is complex, shaped by subsidies, global trade, and consumer habits.

• Question: Where is a hidden leverage point in this system? Would you intervene in food pricing, food waste reduction, or local sourcing?

Your Turn: Pick One & Map a Solution

• Step 1: Pick a system—attention economy or food systems.  

• Step 2: Identify a leverage point—use Donella’s 12 leverage points as inspiration.  

• Step 3: Share your insight!—What small change could make a big difference?

Example:

• Leverage Point #6 (Information Flows) → What if platforms prioritized verified, slow news over clickbait? Could that reduce misinformation?

• Leverage Point #7 (Changing Subsidies) → What if governments subsidized fresh produce instead of processed foods? How might that impact health outcomes?

Let’s Think in Systems Together!

We’d love to hear your thoughts. Where do YOU see the highest leverage point in these systems?

📩 DM us your insights or tag us on social media with #LeveragePointsInAction.