Contrary to popular belief, a meta-analysis shows concentration abilities haven't declined. The problem isn't our capacity to focus but our motivation to do so. Activities like binge-watching shows or playing video games for hours prove sustained attention is possible when interest is sufficiently piqued and maintained.
Many people delay taking risks until they feel confident. Organizational psychologist Adam Grant argues this is backward. Drawing from his experience as a diver, he states that confidence is a byproduct of taking the leap and acting, not a prerequisite for it. Action must precede confidence.
Highly intelligent individuals are more prone to the "I'm not biased bias"—the belief they are objective and rational. Their long track record of being right makes them overconfident in their thinking, which paradoxically makes them less likely to question their own assumptions and unlearn outdated ideas.
Instead of arguing with someone, use "motivational interviewing." This counseling psychology technique involves asking curious questions that guide people to discover their own inconsistencies and motivations for changing their minds. People are more convinced by reasons they arrive at themselves.
To find common ground in a polarized conversation, first "complexify" the other person's thinking. Research shows that exposing someone to the nuances of a completely different issue makes them more likely to seek compromise and common ground on the original, charged topic.
When confronting beliefs unsupported by facts, directly arguing is ineffective. A better approach is to ask, "What evidence would change your mind?" This question forces the other person to define their own criteria for truth, creating a framework for a more productive, fact-based conversation on their terms.
The best individual contributors often make poor managers. Research on 30,000 salespeople shows a better predictor of managerial effectiveness is the number of "assists" a person gives to colleagues. To build strong teams, organizations should promote candidates who demonstrably elevate others.
Far from being a passive distraction, video games can be powerful tools for development. Adam Grant cites a large body of evidence showing that gaming actively teaches grit, resilience, self-control, and collaboration as players grapple with failure and work with others to achieve goals.