Worksheet 5: Idea Mapping

Part of the Seed Stage in the Business Tree Model

Purpose of This Worksheet:
In the Business Tree Model, the Seed is the moment of potential — when an idea first forms that could grow into a business. This worksheet is about helping you map and clarify that idea, even if it feels messy or early.

You’ll explore:

  • What the seed of your idea contains

  • What makes it meaningful or viable

  • What early shape or structure it could take

  • Whether it’s ready to germinate and grow

Even if you’ve already launched something, this exercise is useful when new offers or pivots emerge.

Instructions (Step-by-Step):

Step 1: Describe the Idea (as it exists today)
You don’t need to have it fully “figured out.” The seed often holds a mix of inspiration, longing, and half-formed insight.

🟩 Prompt:
What’s the idea or project that’s trying to grow right now? Write it in whatever shape it currently takes.

✎ Write your answer here:
[Blank space for written input]

Step 2: Where Did It Come From?
Understanding the roots of your idea often clarifies its purpose and direction.

🟩 Prompt:
What sparked this idea? A need you saw? A skill you have? A gap in the market? A calling?

✎ Write your answer here:
[Blank space for written input]

Step 3: What’s Inside the Seed
The seed often contains early versions of everything — value, audience, operations, purpose. This part helps tease that out.

🟩 Prompt:
Who is this for? What problem might it solve? How might you deliver it? What do you imagine the result could be?

✎ Write your answer here:
[Blank space for written input]

Step 4: Is This Seed Ready to Germinate?
Sometimes we hold ideas that aren’t yet ready to grow — and that’s okay. This step helps check.

🟩 Prompt:
Do you feel ready to start developing this idea into something people can engage with?
If not, what’s missing? (e.g. clarity, confidence, resources, timing)

✎ Write your answer here:
[Blank space for written input]

Step 5: Potential Tensions
Even a good idea can stir fear, doubt, or resistance. Mapping those early can help.

🟩 Prompt:
What worries, hesitations, or “what ifs” are sitting next to this idea? What would make you feel more secure?

✎ Write your answer here:
[Blank space for written input]

Optional Reflection:

  • What would a light-touch, no-pressure version of this idea look like?

  • How does it connect to the sun (your purpose) and soil (your resources)?