Shortform Books

Understanding Gender Differences in Sports

What are the reasons for the gender performance gap in athletics? Can men and women compete equally in sports? According to David Epstein, the author of The Sports Gene, gender differences in sports are a decisive testament to the power of genes in determining athletic ability. Because athletic ability is at the mercy of genetics, Epstein argues, women are unlikely to surpass men in most sports. Here’s why men and women can’t compete in sports at the same level.

Personality: The Secret Sauce of Effective Teamwork

How does personality influence teamwork? How can you make use of personality typing to build an effective team? Personality complementarity is a key aspect of effective teamwork. If you want to assemble a successful team, you should identify the personality types of the contenders and match them according to how well they work together. Here is how personality typing can make help you assemble an A-star team.

Peter Drucker: Managing Oneself—Book Overview

What’s Peter Drucker’s Managing Oneself about? What’s the key message to take away from the book? Managing Oneself discusses how to take charge of your career to maneuver yourself into your ideal job. Peter Drucker, the author of many works on management theory, outlines the most important factors that he believes will help you succeed in your career efficiently. He asks that you manage yourself and take actions now that will lead to a flourishing career in the future. Here’s our review of Managing Oneself by Peter Drucker.

Is National Debt a Problem? Don’t Believe the Hysteria

Is national debt a problem in the United States? Why does Stephanie Kelton believe that government officials are promoting debt hysteria? Stephanie Kelton is an economist, a believer of modern monetary theory, and the controversial author of The Deficit Myth. In her book, she argues that there is no threat from the national debt and that conversations surrounding the United States debt are full of fearmongering. Continue reading to learn why Kelton thinks the United States could wipe its debt at any time.

How to Use Meditation for Success

Do you believe the myth that meditation can hinder your success? Is there a way to use meditation for success? In his book 10% Happier, former meditation skeptic Dan Harris said that he used to believe that mindfulness and ambition could not coexist. He thought that if he took up mindfulness meditation, he would need to sacrifice his career. As it turns out, he was able to find a balance between the two. Here’s how you can make your meditation practice work with your career.

How to Work With a Blue Personality Type

What are the traits of a Blue personality type? In what ways should you adapt your behavior when working with a Blue-dominant person? According to Thomas Erikson in Surrounded by Idiots, Blue-dominant people are extremely organized. Erikson says they have a place for everything, know where every cent goes, and keep detailed schedules. It would not be unusual for a Blue type to plan meals weeks in advance. Keep reading for advice on how to work with a Blue-dominant person.

Speed in Sports: Nature or Nurture?

Is speed ability a matter of genetics or training? Which is more important when it comes to speed in sports? While it’s not a physical characteristic, speed is a necessary trait shared by athletes in many sports. Sports and science have yet to determine the exact recipe that makes an athlete fast. Here’s what research has to say on the matter.

Codependent No More: Quotes by Melody Beattie

Are you looking for Codependent No More quotes from Melody Beattie? What are the best passages worth revisiting? In Codependent No More, Melody Beattie explores codependency and how it affects people’s lives. A self-help classic and the book that inspired codependency 12 Step Programs around the country, Codependent No More provides explanations, advice, and compassion for people struggling with codependency. Continue reading for quotes from Codependent No More.

Ray Dalio: The “Shaper” Archetype

What is the “shaper” personality type? What are the key traits of Dalio’s shaper archetype? According to Ray Dalio, “shaper” is a personality type characterized by a visionary outlook and critical thinking. The shaper comes up with unique and valuable visions and builds them out, despite the doubts of others. Keep reading to learn about the characteristics of shapers, according to Dalio.

4 Tips From Codependent No More by Melody Beattie

Are you looking for tips from Codependent No More by Melody Beattie? What steps can you take to become more independent and happy? In Codependent No More, Melody Beattie explores codependency and how it affects people’s lives. A self-help classic and the book that inspired codependency 12 Step Programs around the country, Codependent No More provides explanations, advice, and compassion for people struggling with codependency. Here are four helpful tips from her book.