From the first chapter of Adam Grant’s book we are challenged to practice rethinking.
This is not as straightforward as it might seem. There are roadblocks like biases we are susceptible to and mindset types we are prone often take on as part of our identity. He suggests that approaching ideas like a scientist can be a path to a mindset that helps us search for the truth by experimenting, testing hyopthesis and discovering knowledge. The book strives to answer the question, if the scientific method can be used to train people in other fields to make more intelligent choices.
What about this book worked for me:
The book is simple to follow and is full of interesting anecdotes and insights to illustrate key concepts. I found his description of the three different mindsets we often fall into: preacher, prosecuter and politician, helpful to recognize in ourselves and others in the workplace.
The author also provided a top 30 key takeaways list, to help individuals work on their rethinking skills. An excellent tool that you can use to create your own practice.
What about this book was problematic for me:
The ongoing practice required to be committed to rethinking, in order to make meaningful change in myself and hopefully my workplace. Many identies we adopt are well worn patterns, often invisible to us, that will require self awareness and vigilence to change. While I am convinced that the idea of thinking more like a scientist is worthwhile, I know that I will only be able to actively work through a few of the provided key takeaways.
Favorite Quote:
“Rethinking is a skill set, but it is also a mindset.”
“Thinking like a scientist involves more than just reacting with an open mind. It means being actively open-minded. It requires seaching for reasons why we might be wrong—not for reasons why we must be right—and revising our views based on what we learn.”
Top Takeaway:
Anyone can work at thinking more like a scientist and more often. It requires sustained practice and a desire to want to be actively open-minded. I believe the effort is worth the pursuit if the payoff is the ability to make better decisions, those based on fact, rather than feeling . The author challenges us to get in “the habit of forming our own second opinions.”
Rating: 4/5