The World's Best Book Summaries
Why do we worry? What can you do to stop your mind from drifting into worry and overthinking? According to Dale Carnegie, worry derives from being outside of the present moment. In his book How to Stop Worrying and Start Living, he presents “thoughtful analysis”—a three-step approach to working through worry by breaking it down into its basic facts. There are three parts to thoughtfully analyzing and working through worry.
Have you heard of the Bayesian approach? Do you know how it can result in making smart decisions? The Bayesian approach, also known as Bayesian cognition, involves using assumptions based on your experience of the world to accurately predict outcomes. You may already be using the Bayesian approach without even realizing it. Sharpen this skill to make smart decisions. Read more to learn about Bayesian cognition.
What is the influence of culture on flow experiences? What do some cultures do to promote flow? What are some cultural norms that may discourage flow? Culture has a huge influence on flow. Some cultures provide ample opportunities for people to fulfill themselves while some are more structured and limit the people’s opportunities. Additionally, research actually shows that more leisure time does not lead to more flow. Keep reading to learn about the cultural influence on flow.
What’s your way of handling conflict? What do you think is the main reason that trivial conflicts escalate into full-blown arguments? According to the Arbinger Institute, the author of The Anatomy of Peace, some people have difficulty resolving conflict peacefully and effectively because they adopt what they call a “combative mindset.” There are three elements of the combative mindset: collusion, self-betrayal, and justification. In this article, we’ll examine how the combative mindset causes failures in our approach to conflict.
What role does religion play in your life? Do people who practice some form of religion or spirituality tend to be happier and more at peace with themselves? According to psychologist Dale Carnegie, religion and belief in a higher power is a powerful buffer against worries and stresses of life. Even if you don’t subscribe to traditional religion, you can still find a higher power and a type of prayer. Your prayers might look like: meditation, journaling, writing messages in bottles, or simply speaking them aloud to the universe. Here is how religion can help you alleviate worry and live
What does memory have to do with the flow state? What are some common memory-dependent activities? Why does today’s society devalue memory? The importance of memory shouldn’t be overlooked. Although it’s been determined that memorization isn’t the most optimal learning device, it’s still important for other reasons. Memory activities such as recounting your ancestry, repeating riddles and sayings, and creating ordered systems can promote flow. Keep reading to learn about the link between memory and flow.
What are the three adult attachment styles? Which combinations of styles match up the best? How do you navigate a relationship with mismatched styles? The three adult attachment styles are secure, anxious, and avoidant. Secure attachers make up the majority of the population and can pretty much get along with any other type. On the other hand, if you combine an anxious attacher with an avoidant attacher, you’re looking for trouble. Keep reading for everything you need to know about the three adult attachment styles.
Does your day start with chaos or calm? What is Miracle Morning meditation, and how might these moments of silence make a difference for your whole day? In The Miracle Morning, meditation is one of the ingredients of a powerful morning routine. Author Hal Elrod provides a simple five-step process to get you started. Read more to learn how you can practice Miracle Morning meditation to set a healthy tone for the day.
Why does Brené Brown say it’s so important to follow your intuition? What are some barriers to trusting intuition? Can they be overcome? Brené Brown’s guidepost #5 from The Gifts of Imperfection says that you need to follow your intuition to live Wholeheartedly. This can be difficult for many because the brain has an overwhelming need for certainty rather than instinct. Here’s why Brené Brown says you need to follow your intuition.
Is Arbinger Institute’s The Anatomy of Peace worth reading? What do you think is the main reason people get into conflict? The Anatomy of Peace by the Arbinger Institute builds upon the concepts of self-deception and justification laid out in its previous bestseller Leadership and Self-Deception. However, this time these principles are considered in the broader context of interpersonal, family, social, and political dynamics. Learn about the book’s authors, publication context, and critical reception.