The World's Best Book Summaries
Why should you be a generalist rather than becoming an expert in one specific thing? Why do specialists struggle so much in the modern world? In his book Range, David Epstein explains that the modern world is too unpredictable to just rely on one skill. With such an unstable environment, you should be developing a range of skills instead of becoming an expert in one. Continue reading to learn why you shouldn’t aim to become an expert.
Want advice on how to ask someone on a date? What do you do if you get turned down? Asking someone on a date can be nerve-wracking—especially when you’re afraid of being turned down. Additionally, when planning the date, you should always provide full details rather than trying to surprise them and pick an activity where you can converse in a casual environment. Here are more tips from The Fine Art of Small Talk on how to ask someone out.
How is it possible for your grit level to change? What factors lead to changes in your grit level? In her book Grit, Angela Duckworth describes grit as a trait that combines passion and perseverance. She says that your level of grit matters more than natural talent or intelligence when it comes to success. However, Duckworth also explains that your grit level is not set and can change over the span of your life. Here’s how your grit level can change over time, according to Angela Duckworth.
What is the difference between strategy versus tactics in the context of decision-making? Which approach is more effective? David Epstein, the author of Range, insists that strategy is more important than tactics. In the past, tactical decision-making was the norm, but in the modern-day, abstract and strategic thinking are replacing the tactical approach. Here’s why strategy matters more than tactics.
Have you ever wanted to compliment someone but felt too awkward to do it? What are the benefits of giving compliments? According to Debra Fine, the author of The Fine Art of Small Talk, giving compliments actually has many benefits—they can break the ice, help establish rapport, and make people feel appreciated. She defines two types of compliments: deep and shallow. Here is how to give a compliment, according to Debra Fine.
Is Angela Duckworth’s grit test in Grit actually useful? What are some criticisms of the grit test? In her book Grit, Angela Duckworth put together a grit test to measure where you are on the grit scale—in other words, to see how gritty you are. However, many psychologists have critiqued her test for a number of reasons. Here is Angela Duckworth’s grit test and its critiques.
Why is it more important for schools to teach critical thinking skills rather than specialization? What proof is there that critical thinking is more important? The modern education system focuses on teaching both grade school and college students specialized skills. This is especially apparent when you look at medical school students. Here’s why schools should change the education system to include more critical thinking.
What are Gary Vaynerchuk’s top quotes from Crush It!? Why does Gary Vaynerchuk say it’s so important to develop a personal brand? In his book Crush It!, social media guru Gary Vaynerchuk teaches readers how and why they should create a personal brand online. Further, he teaches you how to grow that brand so you can eventually monetize it. Continue reading for Gary Vaynerchuk’s quotes from Crush It! with explanations and analysis.
Do you find it awkward to talk to people you don’t know? How do you start up conversations with coworkers or with a date? Not all of us are blessed with the natural ability to start up a conversation with somebody we barely know. If you’ve ever been to a business meeting, a party, or even on a date with someone new, you know the feeling. But luckily, you don’t have to be a natural extrovert to be good at conversations, you just need to know how to break the ice. Keep reading for advice on how to break the
What do you think is more important when it comes to success—talent or effort? What role does inborn talent play in achievement? It was previously thought that many highly successful people were child prodigies or people born with natural talent and intelligence. However, Angela Duckworth, the author of Grit, dispels that myth and says that the most important trait that will lead you to success is grit— the combination of passion and purpose. Here is why success is dependent on effort, and less so—on talent or luck.