Shortform Books

Moving Upstream: Dan Heath’s Advice for Real Solutions

Do you want to solve a major problem in your organization or in society at large? How can you intentionally foster an upstream mindset with those around you? In Upstream, business writer Dan Heath explains a strategy for focusing energy on proactive, long-term solutions: upstream problem-solving. He shares recommendations for implementing upstream solutions in any context, and he points out three roadblocks that are likely to be in your way. Continue reading for Heath’s advice for moving upstream along with an exercise to help you implement his ideas.

Perspective-Taking: Psychology’s Solution for Tantrums

What is perspective-taking in psychology? Why is it important to see things from your child’s point of view? In The Explosive Child, Ross Greene claims that asking for your child’s perspective on challenges and outbursts they’re having will help them process their feelings and behavior. This is called perspective-taking, psychology’s great solution for fixing bad behavior. Find out how to use your child’s perspective to correct tantrums.

How to Change Your Thinking Patterns With Meditation

Do you often get stuck in unhelpful or self-sabotaging thinking patterns? How can you train your brain to think more positively and productively? According to Joe Dispenza, the author of Becoming Supernatural, the key to changing your thinking lies in rewiring your brain waves. The most effective way to do that, writes Dispenza, is through meditation. Specifically, you need to slow down your brain waves to the lower-end frequencies. Here’s how to change your thinking patterns using brain wave meditation.

Behavior-Based Strategies for Overcoming Low Self-Esteem

How to Build Faith in Yourself and Change Your Life

What are the psychological consequences of low self-esteem? What are some steps you can take to cultivate a healthy sense of self-esteem? People who have low self-esteem struggle to act in their best interests and often go to great lengths to please others in pursuit of validation, even if it comes at the expense of their own happiness. Luckily, your self-esteem is amenable to change, and you can improve it by practicing self-esteem-building behaviors. In this article, you’ll learn about the importance of nurturing healthy self-esteem and some strategies for overcoming low self-esteem.

How to Send Effective Sales Funnel Emails (+ The 2 Types)

How do you build an effective sales funnel? What should be the first step in your sales funnel pathway? According to Russel Brunson, the author of Dotcom Secrets, sales funnels work best with email marketing. He recommends creating a lead magnet to collect customers’ emails so you can market to them directly. Here are some tips on how to send effective sales funnel emails.

Michael Shellenberger: Nuclear Power’s Advantages & Detractors

Why is it more expensive to build nuclear power plants in the US than in other places? Is the anti-nuclear movement doing more harm than good? According to award-winning science writer Michael Shellenberger, nuclear power is the solution for the foreseeable future when it comes to our ever-growing demands for energy. In Apocalypse Never, he makes the case for nuclear energy and explains who’s standing in the way. Read more to learn Shellenberger’s take on the nuclear power issue.

How to Persuade People: 3 Ways to Put People Under Your Spell

Would you like to be more charming? How can you get what you want without using force or intimidation? In The Daily Laws, Robert Greene explores truths about human nature and how you can take control of your life. He shares three ways to seduce and persuade others: make them lower their guard, play into their fantasies, and appeal to their emotions. Continue reading to learn how to persuade people with Greene’s strategies.

How to Measure Success: Forming Your Own Definition

What Is the Secret to Living a Happy Life?

How do you know when you’ve finally “made it?” What do you do next if you find the success you’ve been chasing? When many people hit success, they don’t even know they have it. That’s because there’s not one solid definition of success—everyone measures success differently, and you have to find your own meaning. Check out how to measure success, according to The Motivation Myth by Jeff Haden.

Building Trust in a Relationship: Talk Things Through

What’s the key to building trust in a relationship? What breaks trust in a relationship? Eight Dates claims that one of the most important topics you can discuss with your partner on a date is trust. Whether trust has been broken before or you want to simply strengthen it, talking to your partner about what trust means to them is a good first step. Continue reading to learn how to talk about trust on a date.

How to Build Self-Discipline: 4 Strategies From Ryan Holiday

How do you build self-discipline in a way that sticks? Why do you need to have a purpose to have control? In Discipline Is Destiny, Ryan Holiday discusses why identifying your purpose is essential to practicing discipline. He also says that you can fulfill your purpose by being disciplined, while also facing any hardships you encounter. Keep reading to learn how to build self-discipline so you can be successful in life.