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by Robin Sharma
Simple Strategies You Can Use to Make Giant Leaps in Work and Life
Think Like a Rocket Scientist by Ozan Varol provides unconventional yet practical strategies for problem-solving inspired by rocket scientists. The book encourages readers to think creatively and challenge assumptions, ultimately leading to more innovative solutions.
The engineers and scientists at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory have a strange tradition. At crucial moments in every space mission, they chomp on peanuts. This phenomenon began when a Ranger spacecraft successfully launched after a long run of failures. An engineer had brought a bag of peanuts into mission control that day. Since then, peanuts are eaten at every launch to ward off bad luck.
This shows that even the most scientific among us fear uncertainty. That’s why we engage in strange rituals – like eating peanuts or wearing our lucky jeans – to regain a sense of control. We can’t help feeling this way. Fear of the unknown helped keep our ancestors safe from saber-toothed tigers. But when we avoid uncertainty altogether, we close ourselves off to new possibilities.
The key message here is: Changing your attitude towards uncertainty opens you up to discovery.
Scientists don’t see uncertainty as something to fear. When faced with a dark, shadow-filled room, they don’t turn away like most of us. They poke around in it until they find a light switch. Once that light’s on, they can evaluate what they’ve found. There might be something curious in the room, or there may be another door leading to yet another mystery.
Uncertainty doesn’t make scientists panic. It invigorates them. Instead of worrying about the monsters that might be lurking in corners, they focus on all the amazing things awaiting discovery.
There are some practical steps you can take to get excited about the unknown, instead of letting it inhibit you. Start by asking yourself what the worst possible outcome would be. Next, consider how likely it is for that outcome to occur. Writing down these thoughts puts them in perspective, since tragedy rarely strikes. More often than not, you’ll see that the things you value most will still be intact, even if the worst scenario plays out. Acknowledging this disarms your fears about venturing down a new path. Once you’ve faced your fears, you’ll be free to set off on your journey and see what you can achieve.
Think Like a Rocket Scientist (2020) reveals the strategies that rocket scientists use to innovate, problem-solve, and bring the unimaginable into fruition. By learning the techniques that scientists use every day, you’ll gain powerful tools that will help you fulfill both your professional and personal dreams.
Think Like a Rocket Scientist by Ozan Varol (2020) is an engaging book that offers valuable insights into problem-solving and decision-making. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
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Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Start your free trialBlink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
What is the main message of Think Like a Rocket Scientist?
The main message of Think Like a Rocket Scientist is to apply the mindset and principles of rocket science to everyday life for better problem-solving and decision-making.
How long does it take to read Think Like a Rocket Scientist?
The reading time for Think Like a Rocket Scientist varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes a few hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Think Like a Rocket Scientist a good book? Is it worth reading?
Think Like a Rocket Scientist is worth reading for its practical strategies and actionable advice that can be applied to any field or profession.
Who is the author of Think Like a Rocket Scientist?
The author of Think Like a Rocket Scientist is Ozan Varol.