Weekly Wisdom Newsletter #50

Published Date: October 6, 2019

Hi All!

I recently started listening to the podcast Kwik Brain and find it very worth the time. It's all about brain performance. If you like this week's learning points, you might enjoy the podcast too. Here are this week's chosen learning points:

1. Reading a book a week: If you read at an average speed of 200 words per minute, you can finish an average book (64,000 words) in one week by simply reading 45 minutes a day. That's less than how much time the average person spends watching Netflix a day (71 minutes)!

2. Reading faster: A key to reading faster (for learning purposes) is focus. Too often we read in an unfocused state of mind. To improve focus, have a clear and strong motivation to read. When reading, use your finger as a tracker on the page (Ep. 7). Also try to suppress that inner narrator voice by reading faster; you don't need to say every word in your head to comprehend what you read. (Ep. 12)

3. Improving memory: All learning is state-dependent. If you feel no emotional energy, you forget it easily. Bring a state of curiosity, fascination, and joy to what you learn and you'll remember it much easier. (Ep. 1)

Here are this week's recommended actions:

1. Read for learning or development for 45 minutes a day and see if you finish a book.

2. When reading, use your finger as a tracker to make sure you don't lose track of where you are on the page. Also try to push your reading speed by moving your finger faster and try to suppress your inner narrator voice.

3. Before learning, set a strong positive state to improve retention and focus. Be clear on your purpose or intention. For me, I always think about how I can apply it in my life.

If you think someone else would find this newsletter useful, please forward it to them. Thanks, and have a wonderful week ahead!