445. Why Do We Seek Comfort in the Familiar?

In this book, Angela Duckworth presents a compelling argument that success is driven more by grit, a fusion of relentless passion and perseverance, than by talent. She explains what grit is, how to identify and develop it, and how it can be grown through stages such as developing interests, consistent practice, finding a pro-social purpose, and cultivating optimism. The book is structured in three parts: explaining what grit is and why it matters, how to grow grit from the inside out, and how to grow grit from the outside in, targeting parents, coaches, teachers, and organizational leaders. Duckworth supports her arguments with personal stories, historical insights, and interviews with high achievers from various fields.

Set in the early 20th century in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' is a poignant and moving tale of Francie Nolan's coming-of-age. The novel depicts the hardships of Francie's family, including her father's alcoholism and her mother's relentless efforts to keep the family afloat. Despite the poverty and struggles, Francie's story is one of hope and resilience, symbolized by the tree that grows in the harsh conditions of their tenement neighborhood. The book explores themes of family, education, and the American promise, offering a detailed and unsentimental portrait of urban life during that era.

In this book, Daniel Kahneman takes readers on a tour of the mind, explaining how the two systems of thought shape our judgments and decisions. System 1 is fast, automatic, and emotional, while System 2 is slower, effortful, and logical. Kahneman discusses the impact of cognitive biases, the difficulties of predicting future happiness, and the effects of overconfidence on corporate strategies. He offers practical insights into how to guard against mental glitches and how to benefit from slow thinking in both personal and business life. The book also explores the distinction between the 'experiencing self' and the 'remembering self' and their roles in our perception of happiness.