The Tim Ferriss Show

#375: Josh Waitzkin — How to Cram 2 Months of Learning into 1 Day

217 snips
Jun 26, 2019
Guest
Josh Waitzkin
In this captivating conversation, Josh Waitzkin, an eight-time US National Chess Champion and author of The Art of Learning, shares his insights on mastering the learning process. He discusses innovative methods to condense extensive learning into short periods, drawing parallels between chess and martial arts. Waitzkin explores unconscious learning through structured practice, the role of biomarkers for peak performance, and the transformative power of music in motivation. His reflections emphasize the need for stillness, community, and deliberate training in achieving excellence.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Trigger Song

  • Josh Waitzkin used "Lose Yourself" by Eminem as his trigger song for the 2004 World Championship in Tai Chi Push Hands.
  • Hearing the song puts him in a peak performance state, ready to compete.
ADVICE

Mastering the Zone

  • Spend time in "the zone" to optimize learning.
  • Master cues and systems, like trigger songs, to enter peak performance states quickly.
ANECDOTE

Cross-Training for Surfing

  • Josh Waitzkin uses a one-wheel electric skateboard to practice surf stance in NYC.
  • He moved to Latin America to fully immerse himself in surfing and foiling.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app