Elizabeth Whitworth, Author at Shortform Books

The Negative Effects of Overworking: 3 Ways More Is Really Less

How much work is too much? Does multitasking increase productivity or lower it? Might you be addicted to technology just a little bit? In Do Nothing, radio journalist Celeste Headlee argues that, by trying to do too much, people are working less efficiently. This is because the human brain isn’t designed to multitask or work without rest. Also, the productivity culture has led to worse health outcomes and increased social isolation. Keep reading to understand the three negative effects of overworking that Headlee identifies.

Paul Bloom: Empathy Is Experiencing the World as Others Do

How does empathy impact the way you view others in relation to yourself? What are the two different types of empathy? According to psychologist Paul Bloom, empathy is “the act of coming to experience the world as you think someone else does.” He makes an important distinction between two kinds of empathy: emotional empathy and cognitive empathy. Keep reading to learn about this perspective on empathy.

What Does “Tragedy of the Commons” Mean? Pinker Explains

What does “tragedy of the commons” mean? How do you participate in it, and how does it affect you? In his book Rationality, Steven Pinker explores why people make irrational decisions. He discusses game theory, which seeks to explain how rational thinking can go out the window when an individual’s needs are in competition with others’ needs. The tragedy of the commons is an example of this. Keep reading to learn about this fascinating—and sometimes devastating—dynamic.

Bigger Leaner Stronger by Michael Matthews: Book Overview

Do you wish you could be bigger, leaner, and stronger? Are you motivated to get fit and just need a plan that works? In Bigger Leaner Stronger, personal trainer Michael Matthews argues that you can get the physique you want. He presents science-based diet and exercise plans designed for men, and he provides a step-by-step guide to implementing them. Continue reading for an overview of Bigger Leaner Stronger by Michael Matthews.

When They Win, You Win: Overview of Russ Laraway’s Book

Why is there so much bad management around? How can you make sure you’re not part of the problem? In his book When They Win, You Win, employee experience expert Russ Laraway explains that employee engagement in the workforce is at an all-time low. But, it’s not the employees who are at fault; it’s their managers. Continue reading for an overview of this book that can help you become the kind of manager you want to be.

How Do You Spend Your Time? Find More Time by Tracking It

How do you spend your time? What would you discover if you accounted for every minute of your day? Radio journalist Celeste Headlee made positive changes to the way she lives and works. Now, she shares how you can live a healthier life—with ample leisure and social connection—by being more intentional about how you spend your time. Continue reading to see how this works and how you can change your relationship with time.

How to Be Kind to Others: Why Empathy Isn’t Necessary (& What Is)

How can empathy get in the way of treating others well? What truly motivates us to care for people? In Against Empathy, psychologist Paul Bloom asserts that we don’t have to empathize with someone to treat them kindly. In fact, we often shouldn’t empathize. He discusses several other emotions and desires that should be at work instead. Read more to learn how to be kind to others—without employing empathy.

Rationality in Game Theory: Steven Pinker Explores 3 Games

When is it rational to act irrationally? How might irrational thinking devastate an entire community? Steven Pinker examines how people make rational decisions as part of a group. He discusses game theory, which looks at how rational thinking is affected when the needs of an individual are pitted against the needs of others. In this context, he explains the zero-sum game, the volunteer’s dilemma, and the tragedy of the commons. Continue reading to understand rationality in game theory with examples from Pinker.

Why Ineffective Management Is So Common & How to Fix It

How many bad managers have you had? Are you sure you’re a good manager? What common assumption about good employees is misguided? Employee experience expert Russ Laraway says poorly trained, ineffective managers are everywhere, and they’re costing companies billions of dollars every year. However, he says he has the solution: By developing a few key leadership skills, you can greatly improve your team’s morale and performance. Read more to learn why ineffective management is so common, how you can determine your own effectiveness, and why improving your skills is easier than you might think.

Choose Your Diet Goal: Lose Fat, Maintain, or Bulk Up

Are you looking to build muscle? Should you burn fat first? You’ve decided you want to change your physique in some way. Before diving into a diet and meal plan, you should clarify your diet goal. In Bigger Leaner Stronger, personal trainer Michael Matthews discusses three aims you can choose from—losing fat, maintaining your current physique, or bulking up. Keep reading for Matthews’s insights on these three diet goals.