The fastest way to internalize new information

Studies repeatedly show that we understand and retain a certain amount of new information when we hear it, more when we see it, and even more when we put into practice (actually do) the thing we just learned. But by far the fastest, most reliable, long-term method for internalizing new information is to teach someone else. This is because the prerequisite for teaching others is to deconstruct and comprehend concepts well enough to repeat them in our own words. Want to make sure you really understand something? Teach someone else.

#emotionalintelligence #learning #lifelessons #skillacquisition

Why we fight so hard for certain beliefs

Many people become angry and double-down on their opinions, even when presented with contrary evidence.  This doesn’t happen with all beliefs – only our most deeply held convictions. The non-negotiable ones.

Neuroscience teaches us that our nervous system prompts the same “fight or flight” mechanism when these beliefs are challenged.  Think about that for a moment.  Telling me I’m wrong about something I feel strongly about produces the same physiological reaction as me being in urgent, life-threatening danger.

Next time you’re in a war of ideas with someone who refuses to be sane and rational (by agreeing with you), just remember that you also hold many beliefs.  Some of them, if challenged, may cause you to become similarly insane and irrational.

#inspirational #lifelessons

A healthy way to obsess

The RAS is the tiny portion of your brain that notices yellow cars the moment you consider buying one.

One way to use modern technology to activate the RAS and force multiple “exposures” is to save a relevant image to the lock screen on your smartphone, which research shows the average person sees 110 times per day (perhaps the subject of a separate discussion).

If your focus is on money, save an image of a pile of cash as your default lock-screen photo.  You’ll see it multiple times per day, which may unconsciously open your mind to opportunities you may not have seen otherwise.

#inspirational #lifelessons #MANIFESATION #success