Shortform Books

A Look at Scrum vs. Traditional Project Management

In what ways are the traditional project management methods flawed? How does the Scrum method overcome those flaws? In his book Scrum, Jeff Sutherland compares the Scrum method to more traditional management methods, such as the Waterfall method. Sutherland points out that these traditional methods don’t work well because they’re based on unrealistic optimism, whereas the Scrum method is based on flexibility and reality. Let’s take a look at Scrum vs. traditional project management methods.

What Are the StrengthsFinder Strengths?

What are the StrengthsFinder strengths? How are they described? What are your top strengths? In StrengthsFinder 2.0, Tom Rath describes the 34 innate abilities the StrengthsFinder test looks for. He also provides suggestions for capitalizing on your innate ability to achieve your greatest potential. Even if you read this book without taking the test, you’ll learn about the different strengths you might have and how to build upon them to find success. Alongside descriptions of the 34 innate abilities, we provide commentary on further ways to grow your ability, potential downsides to certain abilities, and situations in which everyone should

How to Break the Vicious Cycle of Poverty

Why is it so hard to get out of poverty? What is the key factor that keeps people stuck in the poverty trap? Poverty is an insidious trap that is extremely difficult to escape. Poor people are so focused on stretching their limited resources that they simply don’t have the time or energy to think about anything else. According to Esther Duflo and Abhijit Banerjee, the authors of Poor Economics, one way to break the vicious cycle of poverty is to give the poor easier choices. Here’s how lack of choices keeps people in the poverty trap.

The 5S Implementation Plan: A Step-by-Step Approach

Where does Toyota’s cleanup process begin? What is the 5S implementation plan? In The Toyota Way, Jeffrey Liker says that the heart of Toyota’s approach to efficiency is the concept of kaizen, or continuous improvement. To begin kaizen, you have to start with the 5S implementation plan to reduce waste. Let’s go through the steps of the 5S implementation plan in detail.

The Alchemist—The Ending Explained

Do you want The Alchemist ending explained? What did the treasure symbolize? What did Santiago learn? The end of The Alchemist is where Paulo Coelho drives home his lessons. He discusses the importance of following your dreams, finding love, and becoming one with the universe. Here’s an overview of what happened in the story and an analysis of what it means.

Should You Invest in Index Funds? Yes, Here’s Why

Should you invest in index funds? Are they better than mutual funds? In The Wealthy Barber, David Chilton argues that the best thing you can do to reach financial success is to invest 10% of your income in mutual or index funds. Then, sit back and take advantage of the compound interest. He explains what index funds are and why he believes they are a better investment than mutual funds. Keep reading for index fund advice from Chilton and others.

Morality: The Psychology of Ethical Behavior

How do people make moral choices? What is the key factor that determines whether people will do the right thing, ethically speaking? In psychology, morality is a subject that has been studied extensively. One of the key influences on people’s moral decisions seems to be distance—how far or close they are to the situation both physically and emotionally. Keep reading to learn about the psychology of morality.

Expectations of Women: Society Is Holding You Captive

Do you ever feel held captive by society’s rules? Does being a woman in today’s society require conformity to stereotypes? How can you set yourself free? Author Glennon Doyle discovered four pathways to help women reconnect with themselves: embracing emotion, intuition, imagination, and reconstruction. Additionally, embracing your wildness allows you to live free from society’s expectations of women. Read on to learn why society’s expectations of women are unrealistic and how one woman broke free from this captivity.

How to Make Money as an Artist: 7 Ways to Sell Art

Are you struggling to earn income as an artist? What are some ways to sell your art? In Show Your Work!, artist Austin Kleon emphasizes there’s nothing wrong with making money off your work. He provides three methods of earning income from your art so you can make it into a career. Read below to learn how to make money as an artist.

How to Be Your Best Self: Bring Out Your Alter Ego

What’s the key to being your best self? How can you use an alter ego to be more confident and successful? An alter ego is a science-backed tool that lets you adopt the traits, behaviors, and demeanor of a person who excels in a particular realm of your life. In The Alter Ego Effect, Todd Herman gives a step-by-step guide to bringing out your alter ego so you can live to your fullest potential. Continue reading to learn how to be your best self.