Shortform Books

Doblin’s 10 Types of Innovation—Explained in Detail

Why do the overwhelming majority of innovation projects fail? And more importantly, what can you do to innovate successfully? In Ten Types of Innovation, Doblin Innovation firm co-founder Larry Keeley and his co-authors argue that the key to success often lies in knowing which types of innovation would most help a given project succeed. Understanding the ten types of innovation and the importance of combining them correctly can help you understand why most innovation projects fail and how to make your projects succeed. Here’s an overview of Larry Keeley’s types of innovation.

3 Goal Reflection Exercises for a Boost of Motivation

Why is it important to reflect on your goals? How can reflecting on your goals motivate you to push yourself harder? Reflecting on your progress toward your goals is a powerful practice. When you reflect on how far you’ve come, you’ll feel more motivated to persevere and keep making progress. Here are some goal reflection exercises to keep you going.

The Cycles of History: Strauss & Howe’s Intriguing Theory of Time

What are the four cycles of history? Based on recent American history, does the “four Turning” theory hold water? In The Fourth Turning, William Strauss and Neil Howe explain that human history is characterized by a cyclical progression through four “Turnings.” The First Turning is a High, the Second Turning is an Awakening, the Third Turning is an Unraveling, and the Fourth Turning is a Crisis. Read on to learn what characterizes each Turning; how the most recent First, Second, and Third Turnings played out; and the authors’ predictions for the next Fourth Turning.

How Being a Slow Learner Can Give You an Edge

Are you a slow learner? Do you feel pressure to learn faster? How much do you learn when you cram for a test? Imagine that the tortoise and the hare are in a learning race. Now, imagine the tortoise crossing the finish line first. In Limitless Mind, math educator Jo Boaler explains why slow learning gives you an advantage. Keep reading to learn how being a slow learner can put you ahead.

Capitalism and Innovation: How Competition Stifles Ideas

How does capitalism impact innovation? What does history tell us about the drivers of innovation? In Where Good Ideas Come From, Steven Johnson contends that good ideas and novel innovations are largely the result of social collaboration. He argues that capitalist competition can get in the way of this productive cooperation. Continue reading to understand Johnson’s view of the connection between capitalism and innovation.

Product Evolution Lessons From the Co-Creator of the iPhone

At what point does market disruption go too far? How should you time the second generation of your product? When should your focus shift to profit? At Apple, Tony Fadell built several generations of the iPod and the iPhone. Now he shares his advice about product evolution in his book Build: An Unorthodox Guide to Making Things Worth Making. Keep reading to learn how to release and subsequently evolve a product.

How to Become More Creative: Practical Steps You Can Take Today

How broad is your knowledge? Do you deliberately repurpose works that you’ve already created? In Someday Is Today: 22 Simple Actionable Ways to Propel Your Creative Life, Matthew Dicks discusses ways to free up time to maximize your creative potential. He specifically recommends boosting your creativity by consuming varied content and reusing your old work. Continue reading to learn how to become more creative in these two ways.

The 2 Manic Behavior Symptoms That Make Better Leaders

Are there any good manic behavior symptoms? How can leaders benefit from experiencing mania? According to Nassir Ghaemi’s book A First-Rate Madness, mania and hyperthymia can make a leader uniquely prepared to tackle unprecedented challenges. These conditions can help leaders in two ways: by boosting their resilience to adversity and encouraging innovative thinking. Keep reading to learn more about these manic behavior symptoms that help leaders in critical situations.

How to Be Tough: 4 Strategies to Overcome Weakness

Want to become more mentally tough? What are the steps to becoming more resilient? In Do Hard Things, Steve Magness provides four strategies for becoming a resilient person. These strategies include facing reality, understanding your emotions, listening to your inner voice, and being flexible in life. Continue reading to learn how to be tough with these four strategies.

Which Easter Traditions Are Pagan? More Than You’d Think

Have you ever wondered what the connection is between Jesus and an egg-carrying bunny? Where did our Easter traditions come from? The Easter holiday is commonly understood to be a day to celebrate the resurrection of Christ after his death by crucifixion. It’s celebrated around the world and has existed for around 1,700 years. However, not many people know where colored eggs and bunnies come in. Let’s take a look at the many pagan Easter traditions.