Hannah Aster, Author at Shortform Books

The 3 Levels of Engagement: Play, Test, and Practice

What are the three levels of engagement? Which level is the most effective for learning a skill? According to Angela Duckworth in Grit, the three levels of engagement are play, testing, and deliberate practice. Duckworth thought that deliberate practice was the only way to really improve at something, but many experts disagree and say that play and testing are just as important. Continue reading to learn more about the three levels of engagement, according to Angela Duckworth.

Analogical Thinking: Connecting the Unconnectable

What is analogical thinking? How can analogies be used to solve complex problems? In his book Range, David Epstein explains why analogical thinking is a valuable problem-solving tool. Using analogies can help you solve complex problems because it helps you make connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. Keep reading to learn how analogical thinking can help you yield new ideas by connecting the unconnectable.

The Fallout of Progressive Politics in America

Why have progressive politics in America started to slow down and, in some cases, even move backward? How did the election of Barack Obama divide the country? The election of Barack Obama as the 44th president of the United States was an important step forward for Black representation and for racial equality. However, the election had some unexpected consequences and ended up setting back some diversity and equality progress due to many white Americans wanting revenge. Here’s what Isabel Wilkerson, the author of Caste, had to say about the fallout of progressive politics in America.

The Advantages of Extracurricular Activities for Children

What are the advantages of extracurricular activities? How does engaging your children in extracurricular activities help them develop grit? In her book Grit, Angela Duckworth discusses the many benefits extracurricular activities have in the development of grit. They help children cultivate the four elements of grit, develop high self-esteem, and improve academic performance. Keep reading to learn how extracurriculars can help your child develop grit.

What Is Lateral Thinking? An Underrated Skill

What is lateral thinking? Can you really come up with great ideas based on old knowledge or technology? In his book Range, David Epstein discusses the importance of lateral thinking in innovation. He says that contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to think outside the box and come up with brand new ideas to be innovative—sometimes it just takes looking at an existing product and improving upon it. Keep reading for examples of lateral thinking from David Epstein.

How to Join a Group Conversation Without Intrusion

How do you join in a group conversation without being rude? Is there a polite way to interrupt an ongoing conversation? Whether you’re at a work party, a family get-together, or a business meeting, it’s important to connect with others. But that’s not always easy when they already know each other or are already engaged in a conversation. So, here are some tips on how to insert yourself into a group conversation.

The History of the Caste System in America

How did the caste system in America come to be? What influence did slavery have on the forming of the American caste system? The American caste system started back in the 1600s when Blacks were taken as slaves due to their non-Christianity. What started as a religious hierarchy quickly turned into a racial caste system. Keep reading to learn all about the development of the American caste system.

How to End a Conversation Without Burning Bridges

Do you ever get stuck in a conversation and don’t know how to end it? Is there a way to politely escape a conversation? Whether you’re at a business party, an event, or a family reunion, odds are that at some point you’ve been stuck in an awkward conversation. Luckily, you don’t have to fake a phone call to get out of it—just try one of these tips. In this article, we’ll explore how to gracefully end a conversation without burning any bridges.

The 3 Influences in Growth Mindset Development

How do you develop a growth mindset? Is it something you can practice or does it come from experience? A growth mindset means that you believe you have the ability to improve over time. A fixed mindset is believing that your intelligence and ability to learn are relatively set. In her book Grit, Angela Duckworth says that fixed or growth mindset development is underpinned by three factors: 1) childhood feedback, 2) habits of thinking, 3) experiences of overcoming adversity. Here are the three factors that determine whether you have a growth or fixed mindset.

The Link Between Team Diversity and Innovation

How are team diversity and innovation connected? How can working abroad increase one’s chances of making an impactful discovery? In his book Range, David Epstein discusses the link between team diversity and innovation. Epstein says that the more diverse the backgrounds of the team members, the greater the chance they will make a discovery or innovation Here’s David Epstein’s argument.