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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Hyper-Learning summary
How to Adapt to the Speed of Change
20 mins
Brief summary
Hyper-Learning by Edward D. Hess introduces an innovative learning method that maximizes mental agility. It teaches readers how to adapt to an ever-changing world by challenging their assumptions, embracing ambiguity, and developing their critical thinking skills.
Table of Contents
Hyper-Learning
Summary of 7 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 7
To become a hyper-learner, you first need to quiet your ego.
Picture a mid-morning work presentation. You’re listening to a colleague explain a new idea while standing in front of a whiteboard. After a while, she turns to the room and asks if anyone has any questions.
You ask one, challenging her idea. Then, politely and carefully, your colleague explains why you’re mistaken. But rather than listening to her answer, all you hear is her disagreeing with you. Inside, you feel embarrassed – even a little angry at being shown up in front of your teammates.
What’s happening here? Rather than entering into the debate objectively, and accepting that you might be wrong, you’ve let your ego get the better of you. That’s no way to learn.
The key message here is: To become a hyper-learner, you first need to quiet your ego.
Our egos often get in the way of any real learning. They convince us that we’re always correct – that our way of seeing the world is the right way. When our egos are wounded, we respond negatively. We shut down and act irrationally – even when, deep down, we know we might be wrong.
So the first step to becoming a strong learner is quieting the ego. It’s only when we can look at the world with humility, without our ego clamoring for attention, that we can see things clearly.
Let’s go back to the example of the work presentation, and consider a different approach. Rather than feeling irritated when your point is challenged, take some time to listen to the other person’s perspective and reflect on it. Ask her how she came to her conclusion and compare it to your own reasoning. Then, in a spirit of collaboration, calmly agree or disagree. But whatever you do, don’t identify with your ideas. You are not your ideas. The whole point of honest debate is to discover a better idea – together.
Freeing yourself from your ego requires you to redefine your identity. Maybe you've earned a PhD, or others have labeled you as "smart." While you can be proud of your accomplishments, viewing yourself as the best won't help you see the world from a new or contrasting perspective. Instead of resting on your past achievements, you should learn to define yourself by the quality of your thinking, listening, relating and collaborating. It’s only then that you’ll truly be able to learn.
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What is Hyper-Learning about?
Hyper-Learning (2020) shows you how to adapt to a rapidly changing world in which technology threatens to make many skills redundant. By adopting a growth mindset, becoming less egotistical, and learning to collaborate, you’ll be ready to face the future.
Hyper-Learning Review
Hyper-Learning (2021) by Edward D. Hess is a book that explores the art of rapid learning in an age of constant change. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It provides a practical roadmap for acquiring new skills and knowledge quickly, helping readers excel in a fast-paced world.
- By examining the mindset and strategies of hyper-learners, the book offers valuable insights that can be applied to any learning endeavor.
- The author's emphasis on curiosity and experimentation makes the book engaging and inspiring, ensuring that readers won't be bored while learning about learning.
Who should read Hyper-Learning?
- Those looking to optimize their learning skills
- Business leaders who want to harness innovation
- Anyone worried about a future of enormous disruption and change
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Hyper-Learning FAQs
What is the main message of Hyper-Learning?
The main message of Hyper-Learning is that continuous learning is essential for success in a rapidly changing world.
How long does it take to read Hyper-Learning?
The reading time for Hyper-Learning varies based on individual reading speed, but typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Hyper-Learning a good book? Is it worth reading?
Hyper-Learning is a valuable read for those interested in maximizing their learning potential. It provides practical strategies and insights to enhance learning and personal growth.
Who is the author of Hyper-Learning?
The author of Hyper-Learning is Edward D. Hess.
What to read after Hyper-Learning?
If you're wondering what to read next after Hyper-Learning, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Outward Mindset by The Arbinger Institute
- Mindset by Carol Dweck
- The Replaceable Founder by Ari Meisel
- Who Not How by Dan Sullivan with Benjamin Hardy
- The Creator Mindset by Nir Bashan
- The Hidden Power of the Five Hearts by Kimberly Snyder
- Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker
- Soulful Simplicity by Courtney Carver
- Deep Work by Cal Newport
- Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl