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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Brainstorm summary
The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain
20 mins
Brief summary
'Brainstorm' by Daniel J. Siegel is a guide to understanding the teenage brain. It explores the unique capabilities and challenges of adolescence, and offers tools for fostering healthy relationships and decision-making.
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Brainstorm
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Key idea 1 of 7
The behavior of teenagers is perfectly normal.
There’s no point beating about the bush. Everyone knows that adolescence is a “difficult time.” Even parents and teachers often roll their eyes and sigh when talking about teenagers.
While interactions with adolescents might be a struggle, there’s no need to think of them as some sort of war. What teenagers are going through is totally understandable.
Young children generally admire their parents without question. But adolescence is a new phase. All of a sudden they’re embarrassed by their parents. And when they’re not mortified by them, they’re hypercritical.
This experience can get annoying for parents. Sometimes it’s even hurtful.
But if adults spend some time understanding the rationale behind teenage behaviors, they can be easier to tolerate.
Teenagers are essentially preparing themselves for going out into the world alone.
From this perspective, teenagers’ criticisms of their parents are just a way for them to develop a healthy emotional distance. In other words, when the time comes – and it will – for them to leave the nest, it will be easier for them to do so.
This is also why they are so fond of trying out new things and are constantly connecting with other people their age. Experiences such as these are essentially teenagers just trying to work out what life will be like as a grown up living without parents.
It can be difficult for parents to accept teenagers’ new behavioral tendencies in adolescence. But they have to accept that their little ones now have a real need to free themselves.
Not that there isn’t a danger in all this adolescent adventuring, of course. Reckless risk-taking – such as joyriding or drunk driving – can have serious consequences.
But it’s not all bad news. Fortunately, there are ways to use this energy for good. We’ll explore these lower-risk scenarios soon. But first, let’s have a closer look at the teenage brain.
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What is Brainstorm about?
Brainstorm (2014) is devoted to the many mysteries and secrets of the teenage brain. These blinks debunk lazy stereotypes about adolescents and paint a more positive picture. Our teenage years aren’t just a period of hormonal and cognitive disarray; they’re also a crucial phase in the brain’s development.
Brainstorm Review
Brainstorm (2014) by Daniel J. Siegel is a captivating exploration of the adolescent brain and its potential for growth and transformation. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- Packed with insightful explanations and practical exercises, it provides a valuable roadmap for parents, educators, and teenagers to navigate the challenges of adolescence.
- By bridging the gap between neuroscience and everyday experiences, Brainstorm offers a unique perspective on how the brain develops during this critical period of life.
- Through engaging storytelling and relatable examples, Siegel brings the science of the adolescent brain to life, transforming potentially dry subject matter into a fascinating and accessible read.
Best quote from Brainstorm
Honoring the important and necessary changes in the adolescent mind and brain rather than disrespecting them is crucial.
—Daniel J. Siegel
Who should read Brainstorm?
- Parents and guardians
- Teenagers tired of being told they’re wasters
- Psychologists and educators
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Brainstorm FAQs
What is the main message of Brainstorm?
The main message of Brainstorm is that understanding and harnessing the power of our adolescent brain can lead to positive personal growth.
How long does it take to read Brainstorm?
The reading time for Brainstorm varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Brainstorm a good book? Is it worth reading?
Brainstorm is worth reading because it provides valuable insights into the adolescent brain and offers guidance for personal development.
Who is the author of Brainstorm?
The author of Brainstorm is Daniel J. Siegel.
What to read after Brainstorm?
If you're wondering what to read next after Brainstorm, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- This Is Your Brain on Music by Daniel Levitin
- The Teenage Brain by Frances E. Jensen & Amy Ellis Nutt
- Untangled by Lisa Damour
- The Emotional Lives of Teenagers by Lisa Damour
- Hope by Pope Francis
- This Is So Awkward by Cara Natterson & Vanessa Kroll Bennett
- Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell
- Aware by Daniel J. Siegel
- Kaput by Wolfgang Münchau
- Mindfulness for Beginners by Jon Kabat-Zinn