Decisions

Think Again: 6 key ideas

by Adam Grant

The core ideas of Think Again, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

1. IDEA 1 OF 6

   Think like a scientist

   Preachers defend beliefs, prosecutors attack others' and politicians seek approval.

   Scientists treat views as hypotheses and test them. Default to the scientist.

2. IDEA 2 OF 6

   The joy of being wrong

   Discovering you were wrong means you now know more.

   Detach your identity from your opinions so updating doesn't hurt.

3. IDEA 3 OF 6

   Confident humility

   Be confident in your ability to learn while humble about what you currently know.

   The combination beats arrogance and insecurity.

4. IDEA 4 OF 6

   Argue like a negotiator

   Fewer, stronger points persuade better than many weak ones.

   Ask questions instead of attacking.

5. IDEA 5 OF 6

   Motivational interviewing

   Help people find their own reasons to change by asking open questions and reflecting back what they say.

6. IDEA 6 OF 6

   Schedule rethinking

   Set regular checkpoints to ask whether your career, plans and beliefs still fit.

   Escalation of commitment is a trap.