Complete Guide to Mandala Chart — How to Create a 9x9 Goal Setting Grid (With Examples)

The Mandala chart (also known as Mandalart) is a powerful goal-setting tool that breaks down complex goals into 81 specific action items. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to create one step by step, with practical examples.

What is a Mandala Chart?

The Mandala chart is a brainstorming technique created by Japanese designer Hiroaki Imaizumi in 1987. It uses a 9×9 grid (81 cells total) to systematically decompose a central goal into sub-goals and action items.

It became famous when MLB star Shohei Ohtani used this method in high school to achieve his dream of being a top draft pick.

How to Create a Mandala Chart — 5 Simple Steps

Step 1: Define Your Core Goal

Write your main goal in the very center of the 9×9 grid. This is the starting point of your Mandala chart.

Step 2: Set 8 Sub-Goals

Identify 8 key areas needed to achieve your core goal. Write them in the remaining 8 cells of the center block.

• Choose areas directly connected to your core goal
• Make sure categories are independent and non-overlapping
• Think MECE (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive)

Step 3: Fill in Action Items

Transfer each sub-goal to the center of an outer block, then fill its surrounding 8 cells with specific action items. This creates 64 actionable tasks.

Step 4: Make It Specific

Review each item and ensure it's concrete and actionable.

• "Exercise" → "Run 30 min every morning at 7:30 AM"
• "Study" → "Complete 30 TOEIC reading comprehension questions daily"
• "Save money" → "Set up $500 auto-transfer on payday"

Step 5: Execute & Review

Keep your completed Mandala chart visible and review progress regularly. Check off completed items to build momentum.

Mandala Chart Examples by Category

Career Development Example

Core goal: "Get promoted this year." Sub-goals: skill development, networking, certifications, physical health, reading, side projects, financial planning, mental wellness.

Student & Job Seeker Example

Core goal: "Land my dream job." Sub-goals: TOEIC/certifications, internship experience, portfolio, interview prep, networking, physical fitness, resume writing, company research.

Health & Fitness Example

Core goal: "Lose 20 lbs in 6 months." Sub-goals: diet management, cardio exercise, strength training, sleep optimization, stress management, tracking/measuring, motivation, lifestyle habits.

Mandala Chart vs Other Goal-Setting Methods

• SMART Goals: Great for single goals but hard to see the big picture
• OKR: Suited for organizational goals but can be overkill for personal use
• Mandala Chart: Optimized for individuals to break big goals into 81 actionable items
• Vision Board: Good for motivation but lacks execution planning

Create Your Mandala Chart with AI

Filling all 81 cells from scratch can feel overwhelming. With Mandalart AI, just tell the AI your goal through a simple chat, and it generates a complete Mandala chart for you automatically. It's free with no signup required.