Okay, file this piece of advice in the pile that nobody is going to follow (even though they probably should): you should read more textbooks. Let’s assume for a second that you’re one of the few people who does read to learn more about the world. Let’s also assume that you’re interested in topics that […]
Self-Discipline Comes First
The most important skill is execution. Having great ideas, wise decisions or clever strategies comes second. The ability to get things done is paramount. This why I sigh when I hear people complaining about being unable to stay motivated on a project because they aren’t sure whether it’s the right one. These people have it […]
WordSmith – Building a Program that Plays Scrabble
Last fall, I finished the MIT Challenge. While the challenge was exciting and educational, the tight deadline didn’t give me any time for extracurricular projects. When I finished, I wanted to work on a small and fun project that would test some of the things I learned. The result was WordSmith, a program that lets […]
Flow Doesn’t Maximize Improvement
Flow is the mental state of complete engagement. It happens when you are fully immersed in an activity that is neither too difficult to be frustrating, but not so easy as to be boring. First described by Dr. Mihály CsÃkszentmihályi, the concept became popular because it was seen as a key to both performance and […]
I'm a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, podcast host, computer programmer and an avid reader. Since 2006, I've published weekly essays on this website to help people like you learn and think better. My work has been featured in The New York Times, BBC, TEDx, Pocket, Business Insider and more. I don't promise I have all the answers, just a place to start.