# Catalyst Originally from chemistry, a **catalyst** is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. In knowledge management systems like Tiago Forte's "[Building A Second Brain](https://www.buildingasecondbrain.com/)", the term takes on a metaphorical meaning: an event or resource that accelerates personal transformation without being depleted. For Tiago Forte, his [chronic pain condition became the catalyst](https://fortelabs.com/blog/the-story-behind-building-a-second-brain-google-talk/) that propelled him to develop his Second Brain methodology. Similarly, encountering Forte's book in February 2023 served as my catalyst—triggering a chain reaction in how I approach information management. Just as chemical catalysts lower activation energy for reactions, knowledge catalysts reduce barriers to personal growth by providing clarity and direction. They don't just inspire momentary interest—they fundamentally alter our trajectory by making transformation more accessible.