The Domino Effect describes how changes to one behavior can cause a shift in related behaviors. For example, if someone begins exercising more regularly and reducing their sedentary leisure time, they may also start to eat better. These behavioral changes can have a chain reaction that results in positive outcomes. This concept is used in many ways, from personal change to organizational improvement. In business, the Domino Effect is often referred to as momentum and can lead to success or failure.
A domino is a small rectangular piece of wood or plastic, with a number of dots or spots resembling those on dice. It is normally twice as long as it is wide. Depending on the game, it may feature either one or both ends showing a value. Each end of a domino is referred to as an “open” end, and additional tiles are normally only placed against open ends. A domino with a value on both ends is considered to be a double, and the values of the two exposed sides are added together to determine a score.
Unlike other types of table games, where a single player takes turns in sequence, domino is generally played in pairs or teams. Each player starts with a set of dominoes and in turn plays a domino, positioning it on the edge of the table so that the exposed end is touching an adjacent one. Each subsequent player then places a new tile on the edge of the table, connecting it to the previous domino if possible. If a player cannot place a domino, they must pass their turn.
There are many games that can be played with a domino, but the two most popular in the West are the Block and Draw games. Both games can be played with a standard domino set comprising 28 dominoes, although the rules for these games differ slightly.
The word domino comes from the Italian phrase domini, meaning “lord.” It is believed that the term may have been inspired by a hooded cloak worn by a priest over his surplice during carnival season or at a masquerade. The earlier sense of the word referred to a garment made of ebony blacks and ivory whites, possibly bringing to mind the contrast between the domino pieces and the priest’s clothing.
As a result of the Domino Effect, Schwab began to concentrate on his most important task first each day and only proceeded with other tasks when that task was completed. This strategy allowed him to see immediate results and gain momentum for the rest of the day. This technique was a major factor in Schwab’s company becoming the largest independent steel producer in the world.
Whether you write off the cuff or take your time with an outline, plotting a novel ultimately comes down to answering one question: What happens next? Understanding the Domino Effect can help you to develop your plot in a compelling and interesting way.
