"Quitting: A Life Strategy: The Myth of Perseverance—and How the New Science of Giving Up Can Set You Free" by Julia Keller
Nov 20, 2023
14:15
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Julia Keller, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, challenges the idea of perseverance and explores the science of quitting. She discusses the pressure to not quit, draws parallels to Simone Biles' decision at the Olympics, and explores the concept of quitting in addiction and mental disorders.
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Quick takeaways
Quitting can be a winning strategy, empowering individuals to prioritize well-being and make better choices in various aspects of life.
Embracing quitting as a valid option promotes cognitive flexibility, brain health, and personal growth for navigating life's uncertainties effectively.
Deep dives
Quitting is a valid strategy
Sometimes quitting is the right thing to do, but societal beliefs and the self-help movement have ingrained in us the idea that quitting is synonymous with failure. However, quitting can actually be a winning strategy, as demonstrated by examples like Simone Biles withdrawing from the Olympics due to mental health concerns. Animals, such as honeybees, also exhibit effective quitting behaviors by assessing risks and benefits before deciding to quit. Embracing quitting as a valid option can empower individuals to prioritize their well-being and make better choices in various aspects of life.
The science and benefits of quitting
The emerging field of neurobiology offers insights into the mechanisms of quitting and its potential benefits. Researchers studying zebrafish have identified the specific brain cell activity involved in quitting, which has implications for addiction treatment and mental health. Quitting is not only a noble act, but it also keeps the brain active, promotes cognitive flexibility, and contributes to overall brain health. By embracing quitting as a way to reassess and redirect paths, individuals can foster personal growth and adaptability.
Different forms of quitting and their impact
Quitting should not be seen as an all-or-nothing decision. It can take various forms, such as Tiger Woods' recalibration of his golf game after a near-fatal car accident. Quitting can involve modifying strategies, pausing, and pivoting towards new directions that align with personal goals and values. By understanding that quitting doesn't have to be extreme, individuals can navigate life's uncertainties more effectively and make deliberate choices to create meaningful change.
We're often told to tough things out. But Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Julia Keller wanted to know: is grit all it's cracked up to be, or is it possible that sometimes quitting is actually a better life strategy?
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