Shortform Books

Why Are American Politicians So Old & Do Voters Care?

Why are American politicians so old? Why are people debating the age of U.S. politicians? How old is too old? With the recent celebration of President Biden’s 80th birthday, some are wondering whether he’s too old to run for reelection. This discussion is part of a larger set of questions centering on why American politicians tend to be so old. Read on to learn why American politicians are typically older, including how age impacts voters’ views.

Best Positive Thinking Books to Add to Your Reading List

Do you struggle with negative thoughts? What are some of the best books that can help rewire your mind for more positivity? Many people live as victims of their own minds, consumed with negative thoughts that seem to control them. If that sounds like you, reading positive thinking books can be an untapped solution to these struggles. Here are Shortform’s picks of the best positive thinking books to add to your reading list.

The Cycle of Addiction: The 4 Stages, Explained

What is the cycle of addiction? What are the stages of this cycle? Addiction is more complex than taking one sip of alcohol and getting hooked. There’s a cycle people follow when they become dependent on a harmful substance, and it can make recovery extremely difficult. We’ve narrowed down the cycle of addiction into four stages: initial misuse, abuse, addiction, and initial recovery and relapse. Keep reading for a more in-depth look at each stage of the addiction cycle, and how to break the cycle.

Is Confidence a Skill or an Inborn Character Trait?

Is confidence a skill or something you’re born with? To what extent is confidence a matter of nurture as opposed to nature? Confidence helps you take bold steps in the face of obstacles or adversity because it reminds you that you have the strength to overcome and succeed. Some claim that confidence is a skill that can be developed through practice. Others say that confidence, akin to IQ, is determined by genetics. Here’s what science has to say on the matter.

Critical Practices: What Are They & Why Are They Useful?

What are critical practices? How can you identify critical practices to accomplish a goal? According to the authors of Influencer, critical practices are the behaviors that need to change in order to accomplish a goal. While identifying them can be challenging, there are many ways to do so so you can reach success. Let’s look at several strategies for finding and implementing a critical practice.

How to Influence Others: The 3 Steps for Inspiring Change

What is the key to influencing others? Why is it important to be an influencer? Being an influencer means you can convince people to make positive changes in the world. In the book Influencer, the authors highlight three specific steps to take to be an influential person. Here’s how to influence others in just three steps.

How to Talk to Females: The 3 Essential Skills

Do you have trouble approaching and talking to women? How do you strike up a conversation with a woman you like? What should you talk about? No matter your intentions for dating, knowing how to talk to females is essential to secure success. According to Mark Manson, talking to women entails three sub-skills: sharing information about yourself, getting her to talk about herself, and showcasing your sense of humor. Keep reading for Manson’s tips on how to talk to females.

What Is Pay Transparency & Who Does It Help or Harm?

What is pay transparency? How will revealing salary information impact employees and employers alike? California is the latest U.S. state to adopt pay transparency laws, contributing to a culture shift that could make disclosure the norm. While this shift will inevitably improve pay inequity, it will also bring unintended benefits and consequences. Read on to learn more about what pay transparency is and the pros and cons of salary disclosure.

The Benefits of Autonomy in the Workplace

What are the benefits of autonomy in the workplace? Why is autonomy important for employees at work? In his book Exponential Organizations, Salim Ismail tells readers how to create small-but-flexible companies using as few of their own resources as possible. Ismail also explains business strategies for managing small teams, including the benefits of autonomy and trust in the workplace. Read on to learn the benefits of autonomy in the workplace and why it’s important, according to Ismail.

Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change—Overview

What is Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change about? What are the main takeaways of the book? According to the authors of Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change, accomplishing goals is all about knowing how to change human behavior. Drawing on their background in social science and organizational change, Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler break down the complex task of influencing people into a simple three-step process. Read below for a brief overview of Influencer.