The World's Best Book Summaries
What is a problem space in diversity science? Why do diverse groups have a better grasp of the problem space? In Rebel Ideas, author Matthew Syed explains how diverse groups are more collectively intelligent than homogenous ones. His book explains why a problem space is central to diversity and how collective intelligence boosts group performance. Read on to learn what a problem space is and its connection to diversity science, according to Syed.
Are you a perfectionist? What are the dangers of striving for perfection in everything you do? Despite recognizing the impossibility of perfection, many people still hold themselves to unrealistic expectations in many aspects of their lives. However, striving for perfection is unhealthy as it can lead to negative outcomes such as procrastination, toxic comparisons, and burnout. Here’s how to overcome perfectionism and learn to set yourself realistic standards.
What is the fresh start effect? How can you use the fresh start effect to your benefit? The fresh start effect is the human tendency toward action during special occasions or temporal landmarks. Just as people feel more optimistic and capable at the start of a day/week/year, they also feel more optimistic and capable when they’re at the beginning of a project or a new job. Keep reading to learn about the fresh start effect and how you can use it to your advantage.
What is meant by a “highly sensitive person” or HSP? What are the key characteristics of the HSP personality? A highly sensitive person is someone who experiences a higher degree of sensitivity than the average person. HSPs’ personality traits include high empathy, an ability to process things more deeply and discern subtleties, and a tendency to become overstimulated. Keep reading to learn about the HSP personality traits and key characteristics.
Want an overview of Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers? Why are people today more stressed than ever before? In Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers, biologist and neuroscientist Robert Sapolsky argues that stress in modern society is causing major physical and mental harm. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce stress in your life and curb the damage caused by chronic stress. Keep reading for an overview of Robert Sapolsky’s book Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers.
What is the peak-end effect? Why do endings feel so significant? The peak-end effect is the psychological tendency to remember and put a greater emotional weight on the ending of an experience. While endings may feel disproportionately more significant, they can distort our perception of the experience as a whole. Keep reading to learn about the peak-end effect and how you can harness it to your advantage.
What are the origins of stress? Have we evolved to cope better with stress? According to neurologist Robert Sapolsky, people today are facing constant psychological stress and our mental and physical well-being are suffering because of it. In his book Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers, he explains the origins of stress from an evolutionary perspective. Keep reading to learn about the origins of stress, according to Sapolsky.
How does one navigate the world as a highly sensitive person? What are some tips a highly sensitive person can take on board? The world wasn’t built with HSPs in mind. Our modern environment is highly stimulating, and HSPs often struggle to meet society’s expectations for socializing, working, and recreation, all of which can lead to overstimulation. Elaine Aron, a psychologist, and an HSP herself, provides advice on how to meet these expectations while still protecting your sensitive self.
What’s the difference between the left brain and the right brain? How do they work together? The two hemispheres of the brain work in unison. But each one has its own abilities, perception, and personality. Neuroanatomist Jill Bolte Taylor provides a simple explanation of the left brain and right brain in her book My Stroke of Insight. Keep reading to understand the two sides of the brain.
Are you intentional about the way you use your time? Why does Daniel Pink say timing is so important? Time is the unspoken (and often underestimated) force that runs our lives. We set alarms, schedule flights, celebrate annual holidays, and mark our aging year to year. Many of these conventions of time have been invented by humans as a way to organize our lives. Keep reading to learn about the importance of timing, according to Daniel Pink.