Self-preservation is a fundamental human drive that we all share. This can manifest in different ways depending on the person, but typically includes some combination of physical, emotional, and psychological self-protection.

When it comes to decision-making, self-preservation is often thought of as a negative instinct. We may worry that if we make the wrong choice, we could end up in a dangerous or even life-threatening situation. However, self-preservation can also be a positive force in our lives. It can help us to identify potential risks and make choices that will keep us safe.

For example, let's say you're considering going for a run in the park. You know that there are some areas of the park that are more dangerous than others. If you're motivated by self-preservation, you'll avoid those areas and stick to the safe routes. This can help you to avoid potential danger and stay healthy.

Similarly, self-preservation can also help us to make choices that will improve our mental and emotional wellbeing. If we're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, we may be tempted by numbing activities like drinking alcohol or binge-watching television.

However, these coping mechanisms can actually make our problems worse in the long-run. If we're motivated by self-preservation, we'll instead choose activities that will help us to relax and de-stress. This could include things like reading, spending time in nature, or practicing meditation.

However, self-preservation can prevent us from taking risks that could lead to positive outcomes. For example, if we're considering starting our own business, we may be hesitant to take the plunge because of the potential risks involved. Failure is certainly a possibility, but if we're motivated by self-preservation, we may never give ourselves the chance to succeed.

Ultimately, self-preservation is a powerful mental model that can help us to make better decisions in our daily lives. By taking into account the potential risks and benefits of our choices, we can ensure that we're making choices that are in line with our goals and values.

However, it's important to strike a balance between self-preservation and taking risks. If we're too focused on self-preservation, we may miss out on opportunities for growth and development. If we're not focused enough on self-preservation, we could find ourselves in dangerous or harmful situations. Finding the right balance is key to making the best choices for our lives.