So you've read Think Again now. In 100 words or less, identify the part of the book that is most likely to stick with you the longest.
What's your take away?
Don't answer this question until you've finished reading the entire book.
In the third chapter, Grant mentioned a Nobel prize winner by the name Daniel Kahneman who had an interesting outlook on life. If he made a mistake during a study, he would be excited that he was wrong. I thought that was so interesting because whenever I make a mistake my first instinct is to get frustrated. A couple pages later, Grant explained that Daniel only felt like he was learning when he was wrong. The next time I'm wrong about something, I need to look at it as a learning opportunity.
In the second chapter, Grant tells about Halla Tomasdottir who ran for the Iceland presidency. She felt impostor syndrome which in the beginning was debilitating but eventually became her psychological fuel. I, much like everyone else, see impostor syndrome as a bad thing but Grant writes about how it actually can be a good thing. It can motivate us to work smarter, harder, and become better learners. Next time I feel like an impostor I will see it as an opportunity to better my abilities or work harder.
"Think Again" had a lot of really good point, but the distinction between relationship and task conflict really stuck with me. That is a big issue in my life. When I get heated I tend to forget about the relationship with the person in front of me, or I will focus too much on the other person's feelings and drop my point all together. If I can master this concept of task conflict I feel like my personal life will be better.
I think the chapter of "Think Again" that will stick with me the most was chapter 6: "Bad Blood on the Diamond". I found it really interesting how prejudice can be found in even the most trivial of things, such as a baseball game. I liked the inclusion of the story about Daryl Davis having respectful debates with white supremacists until it got them thinking, and then they eventually changed their ways. It has taught me how to have a conversation with someone who holds very strong views, and how to get them to think again.
The thing that will stick with me the most from this reading will be the entirety of chapter 11: Escaping Tunnel Vision. This chapter couldn’t have come at a better time in my life seeing as I’ve also been going through the existential crisis that is choosing a definitive major. Hearing the stories of others who have found themselves unwilling to settle into one path in life was eye opening. It introduced me to the idea of “Checking Up” with my passions and examining where I’m headed every couple of months. A practice that I plan on including in my schedule from now on. Having a little check up every once in a while will help me to be able to explore all of the things that I want to do in life while not feeling tied down to something I no longer want to pursue.
I have always been a perfectionist. If I do not achieve my goals on the first try, I chastise myself for failing. I also become extremely upset with myself whenever I become confused. I should be able to understand this, so why don’t I? When I read about Ron Berger in chapter nine, I realized that this line of thinking is wrong. I should always expect to do more than one draft of anything I do, even if the first draft is already really good. I should also embrace confusion and let that fuel my curiosity instead of stunting it.
I completely understand that feeling Lindsay. I am the same way. I often want my first draft to come out perfect and exactly as I pictured it. I usually become frustrated when I do not easily pick up on certain things. However, reading the chapter with Ron Berger changed the way I see tasks. It allowed me to reshape the way I think about "failure". I think you and I see failure in the same light. However, the book caused me to consider failure instead as the act of ceasing trying.
My favorite part of the book that will stick with me is in the very first chapter where he talks about the roles people fulfill when they argue, those being the preacher, prosecutor, politician, and scientist. It was something I never realized I did, but now that I do, I can take a breath when I’m arguing and think “what role am I playing right now and what would be best for my purposes.” It’s something small, but I think it will stick with me.
The part of the book that will stick with me the most is chapter five. It intrigued me the way Grant explained how to influence others and debate. My favorite point Grant made was, “… the person most likely to persuade you to change your mind is you” (pg. 112). I think that is something hardwired into humans. Someone can provide irrefutable evidence, but you must choose to accept it for yourself. I think it shows the importance of rethinking, especially for ourselves.
The part that will stick with me the longest will be in chapter 5 when Adam is talking about the debate competition and how Harish wins a debate. It really stuck with me because I feel in our day and age that everyone is fighting to be heard and also to force their opinions on others. We are all trying to get everyone to see our side and change what they believe to be true. My favorite thing Adam said was, "A good debate is not a war, it's not even a tug-of-war, where you can drag your opponent to your side if you pull hard enough. It's more like a dance that hasn't been choreographed, negotiated with a partner who has a different set of steps in mind" (Pg. 104). I think this is just an excellent way to view arguments and I'll hope to use and remember in my many arguments to come.
To be completely honest, I am not much of a reader, but when I do read it is usually quote or certain sentences the author writes that sticks with me the most. The biggest quote I took away and meant the most to me was in 1st chapter. It read "Unfortunately, when it comes to our own knowledge and opinions, we often favor feeling right over being right." I re-read through this like nine times because there is is much he is saying just in the one sentence. The entire book was placed around this sentence, I personally think. I also enjoyed the way that he wrote. He started out with certain topics, such as the preacher, prosecutor, and politician, and kept that whole example through the entire book. He also wrote with examples stories throughout the whole book, which is something I do as well when I write. This keeps the reader in the know about what he is saying because it can be so easy to lose track because so much information is being thrown at you.
One of my favorite things from the book is where it talks about stereotypes. In this world, there are many people who will make immediate conclusions of people based on false stereotypes about things such as race or political beliefs before they even take the time to get to know them. I believe it is very important for everyone to focus on a person’s character rather than their look or beliefs. Everyone should be willing to love and respect everyone regardless of their differences.
Adam Grant's use of analogous situations is what will most likely stick with me the most, I tend to view books very critically, I like to get a feel of the author's style and flow and I was thoroughly impressed by Grant's ability to perfectly visualize all his points whether it was discussing Mike Lazaradis's successes and failings or the simple, yet effective, picture of the armchair quarterback. Grant's ability to easily convey exactly what he is thinking is incredible and is something a lot of authors do struggle with.
The part that really stuck out to me in this book was the prologue. The story of the wildfire and twelve firefighters really got me thinking. In their circumstance, a simple act of rethinking could have saved their lives. However, because Dodges behavior did not make sense to them, they did not take time to rethink what Dodge was doing or comprehend that it could have saved their lives. I believe this stayed with me the most because often I tend to go about things in a one minded perspective (my own). I rarely take time to rethink and consider that there are other ways for things to be done that could be much more beneficial to me. Since reading this book it has helped open my eyes to the power of rethinking my first initial thoughts and being open to accepting new ideas and approaches.
One of the main ideas that stuck with me was introduced early on in the book, the “purpose of learning.” Referring back to the first chapter many individuals including myself fall into the mindset of “the preacher, the prosecutor, and the politician” when we really should be acknowledging the world from the mindset of “the scientist.” This meaning that one should be able to acknowledge all potential possibilities within the world until a “proper” truth is found. Since reading this I have attempted to apply this concept to my life at least once a day to break away from my pre-existing opinions and to develop into a “better” member of society.
The debate segment in chapter 5 was the most interesting to me. It showed me that even when you are a talking encyclopedia, it’s no guarantee that you can swing people to your side. Maybe if the machine was trying to convince other machines, it could have worked. But we’re a bit more stubborn than a computer, and it often takes a little elbow grease to get people to open up.
I resonated with a segment in chapter nine about former elementary school teacher Ron Berger. Ron had taught his students how to essentially rough draft through their individual thought processes. He showed his students how to build upon existing information to create more rounded beliefs and how to help others do the same. I also loved how he wasn't complacent with simply teaching his students on how to discover and evolve knowledge, but told them to embrace the confusion that came with their experimentation. His way of teaching is something that I will continue to look back on for inspiration.
The portion of the book that will likely remain the most memorable in my eyes is the section about the firemen. It's the part of the book where some firemen were dispatched for help fighting wildfires, and one of the firemen created an escape fire rather than running away from the quickly spreading fire. Many men died there that day. The firemen that ran also didn't drop their heavy equipment, which could have given them enough time to run away if they hadn't held onto it, for it was quite heavy and weighing them down.
This portion of the book not only deals with the theme of rethinking everything, it also shows the real life consequences of not doing so. Many more of the firemen could have survived if they had just waited there for a moment and really thought their actions through. That's why this section has been playing in my mind over and over again, because it had serious consequences that resulted in the ultimate price of human life being paid because of preconceived notions.
The thing that I will remember longest from Think Again can be found in Chapter five. Harish Natarjan, a human, and Debra Jo Prectet, a machine, debated an array of topics. Debra had more data and the majority of the audience on "her" side going into the debate. Still, as the discussion progressed, Harish had swayed the majority to his side with fewer data. I learned that you don't necessarily need to spit out more facts to persuade people but rather be concise and open about the positive aspects of your opponent's views and beliefs.
On pages 237-240, Grant discusses how being happy does not come from focusing on happiness, but rather, it is a byproduct of the things you do. This really resonated with me. He discusses an SNL skit where Adam Sandler says “We can take you on a hike. We cannot turn you into someone who likes hiking.” This was a good reminder that the only person that can ensure you enjoy your life is you. If you fill your life with things that you hate, there is really only one person to blame for why you feel unfulfilled.
The part of the book that will stick with me was the overall message and theme. The idea that situations, ideas, relationships and concepts can change especially in the face of time; That it is not a weakness, or a tragedy to be forced to reevaluate your stances, approaches and opinions but just the nature of life. Someone who can do this easier and with grace will find themselves happier and more successful after it is all said and done. This stuck out to me because I myself often struggle with accepting that life is not always consistent or comfortable, and sometimes changing your mind and heading in a newer, more uncomfortable direction will put you on a better path. This struck a chord with me because my life recently came to a place where it required many, many big changes and it was very uncomfortable at first. Yet here I am, still healthy and happier than I have been in a long time.
What will stick with me for the longest is the concept of being okay with failure. Failure, whether it be losing to someone else or not understanding a concept should be seen as okay and welcome. Growing up in school failure was only tolerated in things that did not matter such as games but when it came to things like school failure was not accepted. Failure, to me, means consciences but this book talks about accepting failure as a learning opportunity. Knowing the facts and being right were always important but this gave me a new view on dealing with this failure in a more positive light rather than hating failure.
I put off reading this book for the longest time. I finally decided I needed to read this book for class and after I started reading, I was actually enjoying it and it was making me think about my life choices. The part of the book that will stick with me the most is definitely the prologue. When Grant was talking about how the one firefighter got away and how the others could’ve gotten away, the way rethinking literally saved his life, made me rethink about how I should think and that I should also rethink.
The most important idea I took from the book was the importance of questioning everything. When we constantly question, we are better able to understand the mechanics of the world around us. This process is evident when in lectures. Students are encouraged to ask questions to facilitate active listening. This semester, I am going to do a better job of questioning processes in an effort to better understand them.
When it comes to “Think Again,” I think the thing that will stick with me the most is the idea of motivational interviewing, which was discussed in chapter seven. When people have questionable or potentially dangerous opinions, it can be easy to forget to ask them why they feel that way, and I think that this chapter is a great reminder that listening is often more important and effective than telling someone what they should do. Overall, I think this book was a great reminder to listen to new perspectives and question the things I accept as facts.
The part that stuck with me the most was Chapter 11: “Escaping Tunnel Vision”. I loved it’s introduction of the topic “identity foreclosure”. My college plans a year ago weren’t the same as they are now. They aren’t even the same as they were six months ago. I feel pressure to pick one career and stick to it. I am learning to accept that changing a career choice is okay. Mandy Hale said a quote that rings true with this chapter: “Growth is painful, change is painful, but nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong.”
The prologue of Think Again stuck with me the most both while I was reading the book and days after I had finished it. The story of Wagner Dodge and the twelve perished smokejumpers on its own is eye-opening, but what made it stick was the way Adam Grant related it to everyday situations on page seven. Real men and women lost their lives because of their inability to rethink what they had learned. It made me realize how little I reevaluate my old habits, and I became eager to do so right away.
The epilogue - to a book about rethinking - is, to me, a fantastic way of showing what Grant truly means, how universal it is, and how it changes what a person thinks. By showing his many changes to the epilogue as he wrote it, we see what he was thinking - the good, the bad, and the ugly; we see him doing as the title states: think again (and again and again). Although the epilogue is rather short, it is a masterful way of showing Grant’s message applicability to anything in life - and that is exceptionally powerful.
A quote found on page 242 of Think Again by Adam Grant will greatly influence how I live the rest of my life. The analogy was created by E.L. Doctorow- it reads, “writing out a plan for your life “is like driving at night in the fog. You can only see as far as your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way.” I believe the meaning behind this analogy is to focus on what is in front of you first, and worry about the rest as you get there. Regardless, the future will come, and we must enjoy what is before us. I believe this is a piece of advice that many of us needed to hear.
I most liked concept of thinking again throughout the whole book. Why do humans view thinking again as a sign of weakness? Why would it ever be a weakness to stop and evaluate your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs? In current times, it can feel like American society is determined to yell at one another about topics in confidence that they are 100% right and there is no other way. What would happen if individuals rationally considered where their thoughts were coming from? What if individuals quit attempting to force opinions on people, and instead listened genuinely wanting to understand? Grant’s explanation of the mindset of three different professions preachers, prosecuters, and politicians is accurate of how humans behave when we our views are threatened. I see examples of it everyday within family, social media, and even myself. My takeaway is that choosing to “Think Again” is powerful in many ways.
The part that resonated with me the most was in chapter 2 where Adam talked about the Dunning Kruger effect and the role that it plays in our confidence and self-image. Though my high school years and especially since starting college I have experienced first hand what imposter syndrome feels like. When the author used Halla Tomasdottir as an example of the Dunning Kruger effect, I felt like her story perfectly depicted the way that I felt especially since moving to ECU and being a part of different organizations.
Throughout reading “Think Again”, there were so many great points and advice that I find extremely interesting and that I would like to apply to my life. In chapter two he mentions that one of his pet peeves is feigned knowledge. This is when people pretend to know things that they do not. I realized that often times, if i feel like a lack in knowledge of a specific topic I will either just agree with those speaking or keep quiet. I am going to do my best to work on this. It is okay that I do not know everything about every subject. It is important to grow and ask questions to become more knowledgeable, rather than just pretending that I know what is being discussed.
I agree with Emily completely, like I always get frustrated if I get something wrong, but I’ve tried applying Kahneman’s thought process and It truly did help me understand things better. We’ve been taught that you learn from failure your whole life, but seeing how a Nobel Prize winner explained it allowed me to see it in a very different light. Hopefully I can apply that knowledge and way of thinking in the future and grow from it.
The concept that stuck with me most was the concept of reevaluating who you are and carving out time to rethink who you are, what you’re doing, and why you’re doing something. My life is stuck in a constant cycle of “doing”. I need to go to work, attend school, do homework, do chores, etc., so much that I will forget why I am doing anything and the end goal in mind. The “doing mindset” I have been stuck in desensitizes myself to what I actually want (which is something that I need to pay more attention to.)
The part that makes me value this concept most, though, is the fact that it doesn’t have to stress major issues, which are obviously needed. If I were to only rethink big, scary, stressful life changes or opinions, I worry that it may take out the desire for me to reevaluate. (This is not because it’s not important— it is— it is just the worry/anxiety that could tear me down mentally.) Adam Grant’s mention of reevaluating how he pronounces the word mayonnaise creates a humor and light to such a daunting thing as change. Creating humor out of change and mixing the dark, scary changes with the light, unconcerning changes will create that grey combination I need to rethink my life.
I found that the graph on page 210 will most likely stick with me for the longest time out of the book because Psychological Safety comes with maturity. Being able to know when you have it or when you do not can be a humbling experience. This can also give you some perspective on how not knowing whether something will work out or not and putting yourself out there to give yourself a chance at success rather than being fearful of the outcome. You have to be mature to take risks at a calculated level. Britt Bradstreet
The theme in the book that stuck with me the most is that you really never 100% know yourself. It is important that you are often reevaluating yourself. Something that I have struggled with in the past is allowing myself to change, realizing that are things about me that I can change, and not be complacent just because it is "working". I am going to try and make time, take a breather, and process what I could of done better or what I did well at least once a week.
In the 8th chapter, Grant mentions that speakers, and especially scientists, are more well received when they admit uncertainty. He said that when uncertainty is voiced, the crowd is more interested in what the speaker has to say. I find this interesting because I have always been taught to exude confidence and not falter in my stance while speaking. I believe that this information is crucial to every person, and is something that I plan to take with me for my future job.
In chapter three, Grants talks about the joys of being wrong, and core values. There are a lot of great takeaway points from this book, but what I’m going to take away is having key core values and principles that guide you in life. Grant specifically says “Basing your identity on these kinds of principles enables you to remain open minded about the best ways to advance them” (Pg.64). This really stuck with me because staying open minded has done quite a lot for me personally. Having that mindset has made me more patient with others, more accepting and overall more curious of the things happening around me. I’ve learned a lot more by staying open minded, rather than having a closed off mindset. Grant goes further by giving examples of bad things to tie your personality to. Each of those things Grant listed were tangible items. Having a set of values and core principles is so important, and I feel like it’s overlooked a lot. That’s why it made a big impact for me when reading the book.
There were multiple points made in the book that I really enjoyed, but the one that keeps popping up in my mind was mentioned in chapter one. Grant was talking about a group of Apple Engineer's who were trying to convince Steve Jobs that they should develop a smartphone. Grant states that "research shows that when people are resistant to change, it helps to reinforce what will stay the same." I think this is really helpful, especially when it comes to anxiety. Personally, when it came time to move in to college I was very anxious, but when I reminded myself that I would still have my clothes, a few good friends, and family nearby, I instantly felt better. This technique will be very useful when I make more changes in the future, like moving, making a family and even starting a new job.
The most important lesson that I have learned from this book is that rethinking is very valuable. I know that it is very basic (after all the title is Think Again), but rethinking about some of our decisions will lead to more success in life. Rethinking will assist in coming up with new solutions to problems and consider how the old solution might be different and better. Thinking again challenges those who prefer to stick with the first decision and struggle with changes. Rethinking is difficult because we have our minds wrapped up by the thoughts that we are right that we do not bother to rethink our point of view in some matters.
My favorite idea in this book was back in chapter 1 when Grant talked about the different modes of thinking and how he introduced the new scientific mode. He mentioned the founder of the Blackberry smartphone, Mike Lazaridis, and how whenever the IPhone came out, his company went under because he didn't think anybody would want to use the IPhone for anything other than text, call, and email, which is what a blackberry could do. He refused to change his thinking because he didn't want to be wrong even though he was and he suffered the consequences for it.
I pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this book. I love how it made me think about the way I perceive things. One part that stuck out to me was how the mother changed her ideology of vaccines. This is a common argument people are having, especially in regard to the pandemic. Sometimes the best way to get someone to listen to your ideas is by acknowledging their worries. My mother always said, “in order to get someone to do what you want them you have to make them think it was their idea.” Several of the things in this book made me rethink my leadership style and how I communicate with people. - Emily Ford
In “Think Again” I think what will stick to me the most is “Thinking like a scientist involves more than just reacting with an open mind. It means being actively open-minded. It requires searching for reasons why we might be wrong—not for reasons why we must be right—and revising our views based on what we learn.” I think most of us come up with a conclusion as to why we are right, and we do not want to change our opinion on that matter. Whether it be about politics, someone’s beliefs, sports, etc. There comes a time when we think our favorite soccer team is the best, or our political beliefs are better than the opposite party. This could lead to arguing and dividing us. I think we should be more open to listening to others even if we don’t agree with them. Learning from others is one of the best things we can do. -Vivian Tapia
The thing that will stick with me the most and the biggest takeaway is definitely to be aware and question the things around me. What I’ve noticed is that most people just go about their days and life not really thinking about why they do what they do or why things are the way they are. We don’t think about how the moments when we failed might’ve been good for us in the long run. Growing our mind should be our number one priority, but oftentimes we stick to our old ways. Falling into this trap is dangerous! Overall, this book truly did make me think about my choices and to broaden my mind even more. The examples he gave were amazing. I really did appreciate his point of view.
The part of the book that I think will stick with me most is most likely the part about Debra and Harish. I will admit, the reveal of what Debra was completely caught me off guard! I also used Adam Grant's audiobook and listening to the voices he chose for Debra and Harish were very awesome to listen to with the foreknowledge that Debra isn’t human. Debra was given a very direct and inspiring little girl voice whereas Harish got a calmer, quizzical adult man. Suffice it to say the message of the chapter, finding common ground and expanding on those ideas for more information and allowing others to see where you are coming from, hit home well. It makes you more easy to sympathize and agree with. - Austyn
This will sound so strange but the thing that will probably stick with me the longest is not a part of the actual text of the book. It is one of the figures titled “Savage Chickens” by Doug Savage on (Grant, 2021, p. 58). The process of acquiring knowledge is exactly like that. Nothing in this book resonated with me more than that single figure. - Jordan Odell
Psychological safety and not sticking with the old way just because it has always been done like that are important ideas. The aspect of psychological safety and not asking questions that could benefit yourself and others because you are intimidated by authority really surprised me, in the case of the NASA launches, psychological safety might have saved lives and showed I can rethink how I approach situations. Also, Grant's chapter on debates and how to better communicate your side or start changing other's views was interesting because it showed how to have a debate without offending someone else.
What stood out to me the most about “Think Again” by Adam Grant was his distinction between fun and learnability in Chapter 9. It was interesting to me because I had never fully understood why some professors are better than others. Grant helped me learn that it wasn’t just the fun that I had in certain classes. Digging deeper, I found that an emotional connection between the instructor and the student is what makes some classes more enjoyable.
There were many valuable lessons to take away after reading the book "Think Again." I think the most valuable lesson that I learned was introduced early in Chapter One and the overall theme of the book; the idea of rethinking. The example that Grant presented by explaining how Steve Jobs was reluctant on developing a smartphone and how he wanted to stick with his old ways with the development of the iPod shows how rethinking can have its benefits. After eventually giving in to the idea of the iPhone, after four years, it "accounted for half of Apple's revenue." (31). This shows how rethinking can have many benefits, especially in a world that is constantly changing.
In the chapter, Charged Conversations, Grant discusses the idea that we should always take the other side's perspective in arguments. He brought up that we don’t often understand the other side before we try to take their perspective, and this can often lead to our downfall. This taught me the concept of perspective-seeking, this has led me to listen with the intent of understanding instead of changing someone's mind.
While plenty of things stood out to me in the book, and much of the insight will likely stick with me for years, what stood out to me the most would have to be the introductions of Armchair Quarterback Syndrome and Impostor Syndrome. I see both syndromes played out constantly in myself, and I see the dangers of both, especially in their extremes. My hope is that the insight Adam Grant provided will help facilitate a better equilibrium between the two in my life.
This book changed my way of thinking in many ways, so it is hard to pinpoint one idea that was most valuable. But, if I have to pick one I would say the idea of conventional views of intelligence vs alternative views. The concept of being able to think flexibly is very empowering. Our world is constantly changing, along with us, so why should our thinking be any different? I know that this will be applicable in my life and I hope I use this information to connect with more people and grow my own mindset.
For me the take away has to be how to self reflect on decisions and how we think. Learning how to think divergently.From the very begging of this book Grant has lead us through how thinking differently in a dangerous situation saved someones life and how to seek the others perspective and how to self reflect on your own decisions. This book has shown me how learning to think again can change your outlook on life.
There was one part of the book that greatly stood out to me more than the rest for some reason. It was the part about confident humility and "Mount Stupid". Maybe this is because I have felt this, many times in fact, and have been able to recover. -Toby Pyle
The part in this book that stood out the most for me was in Chapter 2, starting on page 35, when Grant talked about Imposter Syndrome. I have often thought about different situations and told myself “everybody else has more faith in me than I have in myself.” Grant provided a new perspective to show that feeling like an imposter doesn’t have to be a bad thing. It may be discouraging at times, but it often leads to some of the best results. -Michael Draper
The part that stood out to me in this book is the part about escaping tunnel vision. I am a straightforward person. If I have an idea, I like to go through with it all the way. When I cannot do that, I struggle to figure out what to do next. This part of the book helped me a little bit by making sure I have backup plans for when something goes wrong. It also helped me make sure I think before I ask a child or someone about their careers or what their plans are.
The part where Adam Grant is describing the best way to persuade people and get on your side is to simply find common ground between you and try and see what exactly you agree on. I like to think about how to convince people of things a lot, and that gave me a lot to think about.
I think the part of the book that will stick with me the most is the part about the fire fighters. The reason I think it will stay with me the longest is because it put into perspective how important thinking again actually is. In a life-or-death situation like this one thinking again literally saved lives. Most of the fire fighter who refused to think again died. Some of the fire fighters would not even drop their gear so they could run because it was ingrained in them that these tools would help put the fire out. -Riley Knickmeyer
When I think about the idea of “rethinking”, I always think about myself and not opening someone else’s point of view. So for me, the first section of the book about updating our own points of view was the most significant. I really enjoyed reading and hearing what Grant had to say about being wrong and how it is a learning tool. That is not anywhere near what I was taught growing up and that has turned me into an anxious perfectionist. It was so nice to read about a guy teaching his kids that it is okay to be wrong.
I think what will stick with me the longest is the introduction to the concept “Think again” found in the prologue. The story of the smokejumpers really drives home just how important being able to relearn the situation is to us. Though an overly simple concept that situations and how they are dealt with can change just might save your life. This was exactly the case for Dodge when he was able to re-evaluate what was happening and act accordingly instead of by what they were trained for. Out of those who failed to think again, 12 out of 14 died.
The part about the Wright brothers constantly screaming at each other and the Pixar team that created the software that made The Incredibles really piqued my interest. The Wright brothers invented a revolutionary part of modern-day society and they did through constantly berating each other and the. It shows that great ideas are marble blocks, that through multiple people really sticking the chisel in and breaking off piece by piece, are only then made into a sculpture. Same goes for the Pixar team. Fill the room with people that are constantly at your throat and only then will things get done. I’m probably taking it too far with that last part, but you can see the sentiment.
So you've read Think Again now. In 100 words or less, identify the part of the book that is most likely to stick with you the longest.
What's your take away?
Don't answer this question until you've finished reading the entire book.
In the third chapter, Grant mentioned a Nobel prize winner by the name Daniel Kahneman who had an interesting outlook on life. If he made a mistake during a study, he would be excited that he was wrong. I thought that was so interesting because whenever I make a mistake my first instinct is to get frustrated. A couple pages later, Grant explained that Daniel only felt like he was learning when he was wrong. The next time I'm wrong about something, I need to look at it as a learning opportunity.
ReplyDeleteEmily Crowley
In the second chapter, Grant tells about Halla Tomasdottir who ran for the Iceland presidency. She felt impostor syndrome which in the beginning was debilitating but eventually became her psychological fuel. I, much like everyone else, see impostor syndrome as a bad thing but Grant writes about how it actually can be a good thing. It can motivate us to work smarter, harder, and become better learners. Next time I feel like an impostor I will see it as an opportunity to better my abilities or work harder.
ReplyDeleteSaul Padilla
"Think Again" had a lot of really good point, but the distinction between relationship and task conflict really stuck with me. That is a big issue in my life. When I get heated I tend to forget about the relationship with the person in front of me, or I will focus too much on the other person's feelings and drop my point all together. If I can master this concept of task conflict I feel like my personal life will be better.
ReplyDeleteLibby Revel
I think the chapter of "Think Again" that will stick with me the most was chapter 6: "Bad Blood on the Diamond". I found it really interesting how prejudice can be found in even the most trivial of things, such as a baseball game. I liked the inclusion of the story about Daryl Davis having respectful debates with white supremacists until it got them thinking, and then they eventually changed their ways. It has taught me how to have a conversation with someone who holds very strong views, and how to get them to think again.
ReplyDeleteLauren George
The thing that will stick with me the most from this reading will be the entirety of chapter 11: Escaping Tunnel Vision. This chapter couldn’t have come at a better time in my life seeing as I’ve also been going through the existential crisis that is choosing a definitive major. Hearing the stories of others who have found themselves unwilling to settle into one path in life was eye opening. It introduced me to the idea of “Checking Up” with my passions and examining where I’m headed every couple of months. A practice that I plan on including in my schedule from now on. Having a little check up every once in a while will help me to be able to explore all of the things that I want to do in life while not feeling tied down to something I no longer want to pursue.
ReplyDelete-Gracie Tollett
I have always been a perfectionist. If I do not achieve my goals on the first try, I chastise myself for failing. I also become extremely upset with myself whenever I become confused. I should be able to understand this, so why don’t I? When I read about Ron Berger in chapter nine, I realized that this line of thinking is wrong. I should always expect to do more than one draft of anything I do, even if the first draft is already really good. I should also embrace confusion and let that fuel my curiosity instead of stunting it.
ReplyDelete-Lindsay DeLaughter
I completely understand that feeling Lindsay. I am the same way. I often want my first draft to come out perfect and exactly as I pictured it. I usually become frustrated when I do not easily pick up on certain things. However, reading the chapter with Ron Berger changed the way I see tasks. It allowed me to reshape the way I think about "failure". I think you and I see failure in the same light. However, the book caused me to consider failure instead as the act of ceasing trying.
Delete-Megan Lewis
My favorite part of the book that will stick with me is in the very first chapter where he talks about the roles people fulfill when they argue, those being the preacher, prosecutor, politician, and scientist. It was something I never realized I did, but now that I do, I can take a breath when I’m arguing and think “what role am I playing right now and what would be best for my purposes.” It’s something small, but I think it will stick with me.
ReplyDeleteLuke West
The part of the book that will stick with me the most is chapter five. It intrigued me the way Grant explained how to influence others and debate. My favorite point Grant made was, “… the person most likely to persuade you to change your mind is you” (pg. 112). I think that is something hardwired into humans. Someone can provide irrefutable evidence, but you must choose to accept it for yourself. I think it shows the importance of rethinking, especially for ourselves.
ReplyDeleteThe part that will stick with me the longest will be in chapter 5 when Adam is talking about the debate competition and how Harish wins a debate. It really stuck with me because I feel in our day and age that everyone is fighting to be heard and also to force their opinions on others. We are all trying to get everyone to see our side and change what they believe to be true. My favorite thing Adam said was, "A good debate is not a war, it's not even a tug-of-war, where you can drag your opponent to your side if you pull hard enough. It's more like a dance that hasn't been choreographed, negotiated with a partner who has a different set of steps in mind" (Pg. 104). I think this is just an excellent way to view arguments and I'll hope to use and remember in my many arguments to come.
ReplyDeleteTo be completely honest, I am not much of a reader, but when I do read it is usually quote or certain sentences the author writes that sticks with me the most. The biggest quote I took away and meant the most to me was in 1st chapter. It read "Unfortunately, when it comes to our own knowledge and opinions, we often favor feeling right over being right." I re-read through this like nine times because there is is much he is saying just in the one sentence. The entire book was placed around this sentence, I personally think. I also enjoyed the way that he wrote. He started out with certain topics, such as the preacher, prosecutor, and politician, and kept that whole example through the entire book. He also wrote with examples stories throughout the whole book, which is something I do as well when I write. This keeps the reader in the know about what he is saying because it can be so easy to lose track because so much information is being thrown at you.
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorite things from the book is where it talks about stereotypes. In this world, there are many people who will make immediate conclusions of people based on false stereotypes about things such as race or political beliefs before they even take the time to get to know them. I believe it is very important for everyone to focus on a person’s character rather than their look or beliefs. Everyone should be willing to love and respect everyone regardless of their differences.
ReplyDeleteAdam Grant's use of analogous situations is what will most likely stick with me the most, I tend to view books very critically, I like to get a feel of the author's style and flow and I was thoroughly impressed by Grant's ability to perfectly visualize all his points whether it was discussing Mike Lazaradis's successes and failings or the simple, yet effective, picture of the armchair quarterback. Grant's ability to easily convey exactly what he is thinking is incredible and is something a lot of authors do struggle with.
ReplyDeleteThe part that really stuck out to me in this book was the prologue. The story of the wildfire and twelve firefighters really got me thinking. In their circumstance, a simple act of rethinking could have saved their lives. However, because Dodges behavior did not make sense to them, they did not take time to rethink what Dodge was doing or comprehend that it could have saved their lives. I believe this stayed with me the most because often I tend to go about things in a one minded perspective (my own). I rarely take time to rethink and consider that there are other ways for things to be done that could be much more beneficial to me. Since reading this book it has helped open my eyes to the power of rethinking my first initial thoughts and being open to accepting new ideas and approaches.
ReplyDeleteOne of the main ideas that stuck with me was introduced early on in the book, the “purpose of learning.” Referring back to the first chapter many individuals including myself fall into the mindset of “the preacher, the prosecutor, and the politician” when we really should be acknowledging the world from the mindset of “the scientist.” This meaning that one should be able to acknowledge all potential possibilities within the world until a “proper” truth is found. Since reading this I have attempted to apply this concept to my life at least once a day to break away from my pre-existing opinions and to develop into a “better” member of society.
ReplyDeleteDeborah Thornton
The debate segment in chapter 5 was the most interesting to me. It showed me that even when you are a talking encyclopedia, it’s no guarantee that you can swing people to your side. Maybe if the machine was trying to convince other machines, it could have worked. But we’re a bit more stubborn than a computer, and it often takes a little elbow grease to get people to open up.
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ReplyDeleteI resonated with a segment in chapter nine about former elementary school teacher Ron Berger. Ron had taught his students how to essentially rough draft through their individual thought processes. He showed his students how to build upon existing information to create more rounded beliefs and how to help others do the same. I also loved how he wasn't complacent with simply teaching his students on how to discover and evolve knowledge, but told them to embrace the confusion that came with their experimentation. His way of teaching is something that I will continue to look back on for inspiration.
The portion of the book that will likely remain the most memorable in my eyes is the section about the firemen. It's the part of the book where some firemen were dispatched for help fighting wildfires, and one of the firemen created an escape fire rather than running away from the quickly spreading fire. Many men died there that day. The firemen that ran also didn't drop their heavy equipment, which could have given them enough time to run away if they hadn't held onto it, for it was quite heavy and weighing them down.
ReplyDeleteThis portion of the book not only deals with the theme of rethinking everything, it also shows the real life consequences of not doing so. Many more of the firemen could have survived if they had just waited there for a moment and really thought their actions through. That's why this section has been playing in my mind over and over again, because it had serious consequences that resulted in the ultimate price of human life being paid because of preconceived notions.
- Cas Northcutt
The thing that I will remember longest from Think Again can be found in Chapter five. Harish Natarjan, a human, and Debra Jo Prectet, a machine, debated an array of topics. Debra had more data and the majority of the audience on "her" side going into the debate. Still, as the discussion progressed, Harish had swayed the majority to his side with fewer data. I learned that you don't necessarily need to spit out more facts to persuade people but rather be concise and open about the positive aspects of your opponent's views and beliefs.
ReplyDelete-Noah Wakins
On pages 237-240, Grant discusses how being happy does not come from focusing on happiness, but rather, it is a byproduct of the things you do. This really resonated with me. He discusses an SNL skit where Adam Sandler says “We can take you on a hike. We cannot turn you into someone who likes hiking.” This was a good reminder that the only person that can ensure you enjoy your life is you. If you fill your life with things that you hate, there is really only one person to blame for why you feel unfulfilled.
ReplyDeleteThe part of the book that will stick with me was the overall message and theme. The idea that situations, ideas, relationships and concepts can change especially in the face of time; That it is not a weakness, or a tragedy to be forced to reevaluate your stances, approaches and opinions but just the nature of life. Someone who can do this easier and with grace will find themselves happier and more successful after it is all said and done. This stuck out to me because I myself often struggle with accepting that life is not always consistent or comfortable, and sometimes changing your mind and heading in a newer, more uncomfortable direction will put you on a better path. This struck a chord with me because my life recently came to a place where it required many, many big changes and it was very uncomfortable at first. Yet here I am, still healthy and happier than I have been in a long time.
ReplyDeleteWhat will stick with me for the longest is the concept of being okay with failure. Failure, whether it be losing to someone else or not understanding a concept should be seen as okay and welcome. Growing up in school failure was only tolerated in things that did not matter such as games but when it came to things like school failure was not accepted. Failure, to me, means consciences but this book talks about accepting failure as a learning opportunity. Knowing the facts and being right were always important but this gave me a new view on dealing with this failure in a more positive light rather than hating failure.
ReplyDeleteI put off reading this book for the longest time. I finally decided I needed to read this book for class and after I started reading, I was actually enjoying it and it was making me think about my life choices. The part of the book that will stick with me the most is definitely the prologue. When Grant was talking about how the one firefighter got away and how the others could’ve gotten away, the way rethinking literally saved his life, made me rethink about how I should think and that I should also rethink.
ReplyDeleteThe most important idea I took from the book was the importance of questioning everything. When we constantly question, we are better able to understand the mechanics of the world around us. This process is evident when in lectures. Students are encouraged to ask questions to facilitate active listening. This semester, I am going to do a better job of questioning processes in an effort to better understand them.
ReplyDelete-Reese H. Siegle
When it comes to “Think Again,” I think the thing that will stick with me the most is the idea of motivational interviewing, which was discussed in chapter seven. When people have questionable or potentially dangerous opinions, it can be easy to forget to ask them why they feel that way, and I think that this chapter is a great reminder that listening is often more important and effective than telling someone what they should do. Overall, I think this book was a great reminder to listen to new perspectives and question the things I accept as facts.
ReplyDeleteThe part that stuck with me the most was Chapter 11: “Escaping Tunnel Vision”. I loved it’s introduction of the topic “identity foreclosure”. My college plans a year ago weren’t the same as they are now. They aren’t even the same as they were six months ago. I feel pressure to pick one career and stick to it. I am learning to accept that changing a career choice is okay. Mandy Hale said a quote that rings true with this chapter: “Growth is painful, change is painful, but nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong.”
ReplyDeleteThe prologue of Think Again stuck with me the most both while I was reading the book and days after I had finished it. The story of Wagner Dodge and the twelve perished smokejumpers on its own is eye-opening, but what made it stick was the way Adam Grant related it to everyday situations on page seven. Real men and women lost their lives because of their inability to rethink what they had learned. It made me realize how little I reevaluate my old habits, and I became eager to do so right away.
ReplyDeleteThe epilogue - to a book about rethinking - is, to me, a fantastic way of showing what Grant truly means, how universal it is, and how it changes what a person thinks. By showing his many changes to the epilogue as he wrote it, we see what he was thinking - the good, the bad, and the ugly; we see him doing as the title states: think again (and again and again). Although the epilogue is rather short, it is a masterful way of showing Grant’s message applicability to anything in life - and that is exceptionally powerful.
ReplyDelete- Luken Sloan
A quote found on page 242 of Think Again by Adam Grant will greatly influence how I live the rest of my life. The analogy was created by E.L. Doctorow- it reads, “writing out a plan for your life “is like driving at night in the fog. You can only see as far as your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way.” I believe the meaning behind this analogy is to focus on what is in front of you first, and worry about the rest as you get there. Regardless, the future will come, and we must enjoy what is before us. I believe this is a piece of advice that many of us needed to hear.
ReplyDelete-Caitlin Lynn
I most liked concept of thinking again throughout the whole book. Why do humans view thinking again as a sign of weakness? Why would it ever be a weakness to stop and evaluate your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs? In current times, it can feel like American society is determined to yell at one another about topics in confidence that they are 100% right and there is no other way. What would happen if individuals rationally considered where their thoughts were coming from? What if individuals quit attempting to force opinions on people, and instead listened genuinely wanting to understand? Grant’s explanation of the mindset of three different professions preachers, prosecuters, and politicians is accurate of how humans behave when we our views are threatened. I see examples of it everyday within family, social media, and even myself. My takeaway is that choosing to “Think Again” is powerful in many ways.
ReplyDeleteJillian B.
The part that resonated with me the most was in chapter 2 where Adam talked about the Dunning Kruger effect and the role that it plays in our confidence and self-image. Though my high school years and especially since starting college I have experienced first hand what imposter syndrome feels like. When the author used Halla Tomasdottir as an example of the Dunning Kruger effect, I felt like her story perfectly depicted the way that I felt especially since moving to ECU and being a part of different organizations.
ReplyDelete-Abigail Johnson
Throughout reading “Think Again”, there were so many great points and advice that I find extremely interesting and that I would like to apply to my life. In chapter two he mentions that one of his pet peeves is feigned knowledge. This is when people pretend to know things that they do not. I realized that often times, if i feel like a lack in knowledge of a specific topic I will either just agree with those speaking or keep quiet. I am going to do my best to work on this. It is okay that I do not know everything about every subject. It is important to grow and ask questions to become more knowledgeable, rather than just pretending that I know what is being discussed.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Emily completely, like I always get frustrated if I get something wrong, but I’ve tried applying Kahneman’s thought process and It truly did help me understand things better. We’ve been taught that you learn from failure your whole life, but seeing how a Nobel Prize winner explained it allowed me to see it in a very different light. Hopefully I can apply that knowledge and way of thinking in the future and grow from it.
ReplyDeleteThe concept that stuck with me most was the concept of reevaluating who you are and carving out time to rethink who you are, what you’re doing, and why you’re doing something. My life is stuck in a constant cycle of “doing”. I need to go to work, attend school, do homework, do chores, etc., so much that I will forget why I am doing anything and the end goal in mind. The “doing mindset” I have been stuck in desensitizes myself to what I actually want (which is something that I need to pay more attention to.)
ReplyDeleteThe part that makes me value this concept most, though, is the fact that it doesn’t have to stress major issues, which are obviously needed. If I were to only rethink big, scary, stressful life changes or opinions, I worry that it may take out the desire for me to reevaluate. (This is not because it’s not important— it is— it is just the worry/anxiety that could tear me down mentally.) Adam Grant’s mention of reevaluating how he pronounces the word mayonnaise creates a humor and light to such a daunting thing as change. Creating humor out of change and mixing the dark, scary changes with the light, unconcerning changes will create that grey combination I need to rethink my life.
Malorie Larman
I found that the graph on page 210 will most likely stick with me for the longest time out of the book because Psychological Safety comes with maturity. Being able to know when you have it or when you do not can be a humbling experience. This can also give you some perspective on how not knowing whether something will work out or not and putting yourself out there to give yourself a chance at success rather than being fearful of the outcome. You have to be mature to take risks at a calculated level. Britt Bradstreet
ReplyDeleteThe theme in the book that stuck with me the most is that you really never 100% know yourself. It is important that you are often reevaluating yourself. Something that I have struggled with in the past is allowing myself to change, realizing that are things about me that I can change, and not be complacent just because it is "working". I am going to try and make time, take a breather, and process what I could of done better or what I did well at least once a week.
ReplyDeleteIn the 8th chapter, Grant mentions that speakers, and especially scientists, are more well received when they admit uncertainty. He said that when uncertainty is voiced, the crowd is more interested in what the speaker has to say. I find this interesting because I have always been taught to exude confidence and not falter in my stance while speaking. I believe that this information is crucial to every person, and is something that I plan to take with me for my future job.
ReplyDeleteIn chapter three, Grants talks about the joys of being wrong, and core values. There are a lot of great takeaway points from this book, but what I’m going to take away is having key core values and principles that guide you in life. Grant specifically says “Basing your identity on these kinds of principles enables you to remain open minded about the best ways to advance them” (Pg.64). This really stuck with me because staying open minded has done quite a lot for me personally. Having that mindset has made me more patient with others, more accepting and overall more curious of the things happening around me. I’ve learned a lot more by staying open minded, rather than having a closed off mindset. Grant goes further by giving examples of bad things to tie your personality to. Each of those things Grant listed were tangible items. Having a set of values and core principles is so important, and I feel like it’s overlooked a lot. That’s why it made a big impact for me when reading the book.
ReplyDeleteThere were multiple points made in the book that I really enjoyed, but the one that keeps popping up in my mind was mentioned in chapter one. Grant was talking about a group of Apple Engineer's who were trying to convince Steve Jobs that they should develop a smartphone. Grant states that "research shows that when people are resistant to change, it helps to reinforce what will stay the same." I think this is really helpful, especially when it comes to anxiety. Personally, when it came time to move in to college I was very anxious, but when I reminded myself that I would still have my clothes, a few good friends, and family nearby, I instantly felt better. This technique will be very useful when I make more changes in the future, like moving, making a family and even starting a new job.
ReplyDeleteThe most important lesson that I have learned from this book is that rethinking is very valuable. I know that it is very basic (after all the title is Think Again), but rethinking about some of our decisions will lead to more success in life. Rethinking will assist in coming up with new solutions to problems and consider how the old solution might be different and better. Thinking again challenges those who prefer to stick with the first decision and struggle with changes. Rethinking is difficult because we have our minds wrapped up by the thoughts that we are right that we do not bother to rethink our point of view in some matters.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite idea in this book was back in chapter 1 when Grant talked about the different modes of thinking and how he introduced the new scientific mode. He mentioned the founder of the Blackberry smartphone, Mike Lazaridis, and how whenever the IPhone came out, his company went under because he didn't think anybody would want to use the IPhone for anything other than text, call, and email, which is what a blackberry could do. He refused to change his thinking because he didn't want to be wrong even though he was and he suffered the consequences for it.
ReplyDeleteI pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this book. I love how it made me think about the way I perceive things. One part that stuck out to me was how the mother changed her ideology of vaccines. This is a common argument people are having, especially in regard to the pandemic. Sometimes the best way to get someone to listen to your ideas is by acknowledging their worries. My mother always said, “in order to get someone to do what you want them you have to make them think it was their idea.” Several of the things in this book made me rethink my leadership style and how I communicate with people. - Emily Ford
ReplyDeleteIn “Think Again” I think what will stick to me the most is “Thinking like a scientist involves more than just reacting with an open mind. It means being actively open-minded. It requires searching for reasons why we might be wrong—not for reasons why we must be right—and revising our views based on what we learn.” I think most of us come up with a conclusion as to why we are right, and we do not want to change our opinion on that matter. Whether it be about politics, someone’s beliefs, sports, etc. There comes a time when we think our favorite soccer team is the best, or our political beliefs are better than the opposite party. This could lead to arguing and dividing us. I think we should be more open to listening to others even if we don’t agree with them. Learning from others is one of the best things we can do. -Vivian Tapia
ReplyDeleteThe thing that will stick with me the most and the biggest takeaway is definitely to be aware and question the things around me. What I’ve noticed is that most people just go about their days and life not really thinking about why they do what they do or why things are the way they are. We don’t think about how the moments when we failed might’ve been good for us in the long run. Growing our mind should be our number one priority, but oftentimes we stick to our old ways. Falling into this trap is dangerous! Overall, this book truly did make me think about my choices and to broaden my mind even more. The examples he gave were amazing. I really did appreciate his point of view.
ReplyDeleteThe part of the book that I think will stick with me most is most likely the part about Debra and Harish. I will admit, the reveal of what Debra was completely caught me off guard! I also used Adam Grant's audiobook and listening to the voices he chose for Debra and Harish were very awesome to listen to with the foreknowledge that Debra isn’t human. Debra was given a very direct and inspiring little girl voice whereas Harish got a calmer, quizzical adult man. Suffice it to say the message of the chapter, finding common ground and expanding on those ideas for more information and allowing others to see where you are coming from, hit home well. It makes you more easy to sympathize and agree with. - Austyn
ReplyDeleteThis will sound so strange but the thing that will probably stick with me the longest is not a part of the actual text of the book. It is one of the figures titled “Savage Chickens” by Doug Savage on (Grant, 2021, p. 58). The process of acquiring knowledge is exactly like that. Nothing in this book resonated with me more than that single figure.
ReplyDelete- Jordan Odell
Psychological safety and not sticking with the old way just because it has always been done like that are important ideas. The aspect of psychological safety and not asking questions that could benefit yourself and others because you are intimidated by authority really surprised me, in the case of the NASA launches, psychological safety might have saved lives and showed I can rethink how I approach situations. Also, Grant's chapter on debates and how to better communicate your side or start changing other's views was interesting because it showed how to have a debate without offending someone else.
ReplyDeleteWhat stood out to me the most about “Think Again” by Adam Grant was his distinction between fun and learnability in Chapter 9. It was interesting to me because I had never fully understood why some professors are better than others. Grant helped me learn that it wasn’t just the fun that I had in certain classes. Digging deeper, I found that an emotional connection between the instructor and the student is what makes some classes more enjoyable.
ReplyDeleteThere were many valuable lessons to take away after reading the book "Think Again." I think the most valuable lesson that I learned was introduced early in Chapter One and the overall theme of the book; the idea of rethinking. The example that Grant presented by explaining how Steve Jobs was reluctant on developing a smartphone and how he wanted to stick with his old ways with the development of the iPod shows how rethinking can have its benefits. After eventually giving in to the idea of the iPhone, after four years, it "accounted for half of Apple's revenue." (31). This shows how rethinking can have many benefits, especially in a world that is constantly changing.
ReplyDeleteIn the chapter, Charged Conversations, Grant discusses the idea that we should always take the other side's perspective in arguments. He brought up that we don’t often understand the other side before we try to take their perspective, and this can often lead to our downfall. This taught me the concept of perspective-seeking, this has led me to listen with the intent of understanding instead of changing someone's mind.
ReplyDeleteMady Emerson
While plenty of things stood out to me in the book, and much of the insight will likely stick with me for years, what stood out to me the most would have to be the introductions of Armchair Quarterback Syndrome and Impostor Syndrome. I see both syndromes played out constantly in myself, and I see the dangers of both, especially in their extremes. My hope is that the insight Adam Grant provided will help facilitate a better equilibrium between the two in my life.
ReplyDeleteThis book changed my way of thinking in many ways, so it is hard to pinpoint one idea that was most valuable. But, if I have to pick one I would say the idea of conventional views of intelligence vs alternative views. The concept of being able to think flexibly is very empowering. Our world is constantly changing, along with us, so why should our thinking be any different? I know that this will be applicable in my life and I hope I use this information to connect with more people and grow my own mindset.
ReplyDeleteFor me the take away has to be how to self reflect on decisions and how we think. Learning how to think divergently.From the very begging of this book Grant has lead us through how thinking differently in a dangerous situation saved someones life and how to seek the others perspective and how to self reflect on your own decisions. This book has shown me how learning to think again can change your outlook on life.
ReplyDeleteThere was one part of the book that greatly stood out to me more than the rest for some reason. It was the part about confident humility and "Mount Stupid". Maybe this is because I have felt this, many times in fact, and have been able to recover.
ReplyDelete-Toby Pyle
The part in this book that stood out the most for me was in Chapter 2, starting on page 35, when Grant talked about Imposter Syndrome. I have often thought about different situations and told myself “everybody else has more faith in me than I have in myself.” Grant provided a new perspective to show that feeling like an imposter doesn’t have to be a bad thing. It may be discouraging at times, but it often leads to some of the best results.
ReplyDelete-Michael Draper
The part that stood out to me in this book is the part about escaping tunnel vision. I am a straightforward person. If I have an idea, I like to go through with it all the way. When I cannot do that, I struggle to figure out what to do next. This part of the book helped me a little bit by making sure I have backup plans for when something goes wrong. It also helped me make sure I think before I ask a child or someone about their careers or what their plans are.
ReplyDelete-Allison Mabry
The part where Adam Grant is describing the best way to persuade people and get on your side is to simply find common ground between you and try and see what exactly you agree on. I like to think about how to convince people of things a lot, and that gave me a lot to think about.
ReplyDeleteI think the part of the book that will stick with me the most is the part about the fire fighters. The reason I think it will stay with me the longest is because it put into perspective how important thinking again actually is. In a life-or-death situation like this one thinking again literally saved lives. Most of the fire fighter who refused to think again died. Some of the fire fighters would not even drop their gear so they could run because it was ingrained in them that these tools would help put the fire out.
ReplyDelete-Riley Knickmeyer
When I think about the idea of “rethinking”, I always think about myself and not opening someone else’s point of view. So for me, the first section of the book about updating our own points of view was the most significant. I really enjoyed reading and hearing what Grant had to say about being wrong and how it is a learning tool. That is not anywhere near what I was taught growing up and that has turned me into an anxious perfectionist. It was so nice to read about a guy teaching his kids that it is okay to be wrong.
ReplyDeleteI think what will stick with me the longest is the introduction to the concept “Think again” found in the prologue. The story of the smokejumpers really drives home just how important being able to relearn the situation is to us. Though an overly simple concept that situations and how they are dealt with can change just might save your life. This was exactly the case for Dodge when he was able to re-evaluate what was happening and act accordingly instead of by what they were trained for. Out of those who failed to think again, 12 out of 14 died.
ReplyDeleteThe part about the Wright brothers constantly screaming at each other and the Pixar team that created the software that made The Incredibles really piqued my interest. The Wright brothers invented a revolutionary part of modern-day society and they did through constantly berating each other and the. It shows that great ideas are marble blocks, that through multiple people really sticking the chisel in and breaking off piece by piece, are only then made into a sculpture. Same goes for the Pixar team. Fill the room with people that are constantly at your throat and only then will things get done. I’m probably taking it too far with that last part, but you can see the sentiment.
ReplyDelete-Elias