How to Use CARDS

CARDS is designed to be executable by adults and children in real-time. No special training is needed — just five cards, three colours, and honest self-assessment.

Getting Started

  1. Look at each card. Each card represents a human need.
  2. Assign a colour. For each card, choose Green, Orange, or Red based on how that need feels right now.
  3. Read the result. Which cards are in Red? Those are the needs that want attention.
  4. Take action. What could move your Red cards toward Green?

The Routines

CARDS has five ways to play:

Diagnostic (Understanding Myself)

Pause. Assign colours. Ask: "Which CARDS are Red? What do I need?"

Simulation (Making a Decision)

Hold a decision in mind. Run two paths: "If Yes, where do my CARDS go? If No, where?" Choose the path with the most Green.

Debugging (Understanding Others)

Observe behaviour. Ask: "Which of their CARDS might be Red?" Treat behaviour as a signal about needs, not about character.

Strategise (Planning Support)

Identify which CARDS are Red for someone. Plan: "How can we move those toward Green?"

Detect (Manipulation Awareness)

If your CARDS change very fast — stop. Ask: "Who benefits? Is there another way to meet this need?"

Tips

  • There are no wrong answers. The colours are yours.
  • A Red card is not a failure — it is information.
  • You can use CARDS alone, with a partner, or in a group.
  • Check in as often as you like. Daily, weekly, or whenever something feels off.