Possibilities and ideas excite me. Love to deduce, find connections in apparently non-connected occurrences. Theorize, interpret and tell stories using data intelligence. I am a Data Scientist by profession, and I love talking to new minds and discovering new ideas and challenges together. I am a philomath driven by purpose and value being inquisitive, collaboration and shared knowledge. My collective experiences, experimentation attitude and multi-disciplinary background is what I bring to the table that my companies love me for, and I hope to share that with you and build on to it!
My Mentoring Topics
- Analytics
- Data Science
- Decision Intelligence
- Product Sense
- User Research
- Storytelling
- Communication Skills
I.
13.November 2023The mentoring session was amazing. Sanjana gave me a lot of information and useful advice. She readily answered all my questions and showed genuine concern about my decisions and my future. Thank you so much, Sanjana!
V.
25.September 2023I recently had a mentor session with Sanjana Das, who happens to be highly knowledgeable and insightful. Her guidance was invaluable, offering a fresh perspective on data analysis techniques and real-world applications. She patiently answered my questions and provided clear explanations, which greatly enhanced my understanding. Her encouragement and support have boosted my confidence in pursuing a career in data analysis. I'm fortunate to have such a dedicated and talented mentor, and I look forward to our future sessions.
P.
18.September 2023N.
21.August 2023She was very straight forward and explained me clearly where am I currently and advised me about the action points I could take right now to reach my ideal expectations in career.
R.
19.August 2023Thankyou mam for solving all my Doubts clearly and Giving me Good suggestions and approach to move ahead for data science ,Thankyou
J.
10.July 2023I had a great meeting with Sanjana. She is so helpful and knowledgable about data science and analytics. She gave me a lot of actionable advice. I left the conversation feeling confident and ready to take the next steps in my career development. Thank you!
H.
19.June 2023Sanjana structured the session very well and provided me with clear insights and actionable action items. Exactly what I needed :)
M.
8.June 2023I find Sanjana's feedback to be both constructive and encouraging. She highlights my strengths while also pinpointing areas where I can enhance my skills, creating a balanced and motivating learning environment. She also provides specific examples and actionable steps to address them. This has helped me gain valuable insights into current trends and standards in the field. Sanjana's detailed and insightful suggestions have been instrumental in my development. Thank you so much for your mentorship, Sanjana! Your expertise and guidance have significantly enriched my learning journey and propelled me towards achieving my goals.
A.
3.May 2023It was helpful having a discussion about data analytics and learning from your experience. I got to know quite a few new things which gave me a fresh perspective about my preparation.
R.
24.April 2023Really helpful and spoke to me about the subject in great detail
N.
21.March 2023She is a really friendly mentor. She gave me a lot of useful advice and give me example about domain knowledge in detail. She also suggest me some good courses. I hope I can keep in touch with her!
R.
24.February 2023The session was really helpful to me. I got valuable input from you.
O.
6.February 2023The discussion definitely help me understand my situation better and gave me confidence in multiple ways. The Mentor, Sanjana, was very articulate while discussing and gave me enough opportunity to open up and discuss the problems that I am facing and gave me different perspectives and food for thought. I am thankful for all the career guidance from such an experienced individual.
Factfulness - Ten Reasons We're Wrong About the World--and Why Things Are Better Than You Think
Hans Rosling, Anna Rosling Rönnlund, Ola Rosling
Key Facts and Insights from "Factfulness" The world is improving: Despite the negativity in news and media, global trends show that the world is actually getting better in many aspects such as poverty, literacy, and health. Gap instinct: We often divide things into two distinct and often conflicting groups, which can lead to a distorted view of reality. Negativity instinct: We pay more attention to bad news because our brains are wired to notice threats and dangers. Straight line instinct: We often assume that trends will continue in a straight line, whereas in reality growth often follows a more complex pattern. Size instinct: We tend to overestimate the importance of a single factor or event, and overlook the bigger picture. Generalization instinct: We often generalize about a group or category based on a limited set of observations or experiences. Fear instinct: We are more likely to fear things that are new or unfamiliar, which can lead to irrational fears and misconceptions. Blame instinct: When something goes wrong, we look for someone or something to blame, instead of considering multiple factors and circumstances. Urgency instinct: We feel a need to act immediately in a perceived crisis, which can lead to hasty decisions without adequate understanding of the problem. Destiny instinct: We tend to believe that certain things are destined or predetermined, which can lead to fatalistic attitudes and resistance to change. Single perspective instinct: We often view things from a single perspective, and resist or ignore other viewpoints. An In-depth Analysis of "Factfulness" "Factfulness" is a profound and insightful book that challenges our perceptions about the world and encourages us to think more critically and objectively. The authors, Hans Rosling, Anna Rosling Rönnlund, and Ola Rosling, provide compelling evidence to show that the world is improving in many ways, contrary to the doom and gloom often portrayed in the media. The book is structured around ten instincts that distort our perspective of the world. These instincts are deeply ingrained in our thought processes and often lead us to make erroneous assumptions and decisions. By understanding and recognizing these instincts, we can improve our ability to interpret information and make better decisions. The first instinct, the gap instinct, is the tendency to categorize things into two distinct groups. This binary thinking often leads to oversimplification and distortion of reality. The authors argue that the world is much more diverse and complex, and we need to move beyond the simplistic dichotomies such as developed vs developing countries. The negativity instinct is our tendency to focus on the negative aspects and overlook the positive developments. This instinct is driven by our survival instinct, as our ancestors needed to be alert to potential threats. However, in the modern world, this instinct can lead to a distorted perception of reality. The authors provide numerous examples to show that the world is actually improving in many respects, such as reduced poverty, increased literacy, and improved health. The straight line instinct is the assumption that trends will continue in a straight line. This instinct often leads us to make inaccurate predictions about the future. The authors illustrate this with several examples, such as the prediction of overpopulation in the 1960s, which did not materialize because of the declining fertility rates. The size instinct is our tendency to overestimate the importance of a single event or factor. This instinct often leads us to blow things out of proportion and ignore the bigger picture. The authors argue that we need to develop a sense of proportion and consider the larger context. The generalization instinct is our tendency to generalize about a group or category based on a limited set of observations. This instinct often leads to stereotypes and prejudices. The authors emphasize the importance of looking at the diversity within groups and avoiding overgeneralization. The fear instinct is our propensity to fear things that are new or unfamiliar. This instinct often leads to irrational fears and misconceptions. The authors argue that we need to distinguish between real and perceived dangers, and not let fear cloud our judgment. The blame instinct is our tendency to look for a scapegoat when things go wrong. This instinct often leads to simplistic explanations and prevents us from understanding the complex interplay of factors that contribute to a problem. The urgency instinct is our impulse to act immediately in a crisis. This instinct often leads to hasty decisions without fully understanding the problem. The authors argue that we need to slow down, gather the facts, and think critically before making decisions. The destiny instinct is our belief in fate or destiny. This instinct often leads to fatalistic attitudes and resistance to change. The authors argue that things can change, and we can influence the course of events. Finally, the single perspective instinct is our tendency to view things from a single perspective and resist other viewpoints. This instinct often leads to narrow-mindedness and prevents us from seeing the bigger picture. The authors argue that we need to be open to different perspectives and consider multiple viewpoints. In conclusion, "Factfulness" is a thought-provoking and enlightening book that challenges our assumptions and biases, and encourages us to think more critically and objectively. By understanding and recognizing the ten instincts outlined in the book, we can improve our understanding of the world and make better decisions. The authors provide a refreshing and optimistic perspective, showing that the world is improving in many ways, despite the negativity often portrayed in the media. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in improving their critical thinking skills and gaining a more accurate understanding of the world.
ViewImaginable - How to See the Future Coming and Feel Ready for Anything--Even Things That Seem Impossible Today
Jane McGonigal
Key Facts and Insights: Anticipating the Future: The book emphasizes the significance of visualizing and anticipating the future, whether it's a few weeks or decades ahead. Power of Imagination: McGonigal posits that our imagination is a powerful tool that can shape our future. Future Forecasting: The book introduces techniques and exercises for future forecasting. Gameful Mindset: McGonigal, a known advocate of games, encourages readers to adopt a gameful mindset to prepare for future challenges. Four Strengths: The book identifies four strengths that individuals need to cultivate: Psychological, Social, Physical and Creative. Overcoming the Impossible: McGonigal stresses that even things that seem impossible today can be overcome with the right mindset and preparation. Impact of Technology: The book explores how technology can be harnessed to help us envision and shape our future. Role of Collective Imagination: McGonigal emphasizes the role of collective imagination in shaping societal and global futures. Practical Applications: The book provides practical applications of these concepts in various fields, including education, health, business, and politics. Detailed Analysis: In "Imaginable," Jane McGonigal embarks on a journey to equip individuals with the ability to anticipate the future and feel ready for anything, even things that seem impossible today. Leveraging her expertise in game design and psychology, she presents a compelling argument on the power of the human imagination and its role in shaping our future. At the core of the book is the idea that anticipating the future is a skill that can be honed. McGonigal introduces various techniques for future forecasting, which involve visualizing potential outcomes and planning how to navigate them. These techniques draw heavily on the concept of scenario planning, a strategic planning method that some organizations use to make flexible long-term plans. McGonigal also advocates for adopting a gameful mindset. This approach, which I have explored in my own research, encourages individuals to view challenges as puzzles to be solved rather than obstacles to be overcome. This mindset, she claims, can help us better prepare for and navigate the uncertainties of the future. The book identifies four key strengths individuals should cultivate to face the future: psychological, social, physical, and creative. These strengths align with existing theories on resilience and adaptability. For instance, psychological strength echoes the concept of emotional intelligence, while social strength reflects the importance of social capital in overcoming challenges. Throughout the book, McGonigal emphasizes the role of collective imagination in shaping societal and global futures. This idea is reminiscent of the concept of collective intelligence, which posits that groups of individuals working together can solve problems more effectively than individuals working alone. Finally, the book explores how technology can be harnessed to help us envision and shape our future. This ties into the growing field of tech ethics, which examines the ethical implications of using technology to shape society. In conclusion, "Imaginable" by Jane McGonigal provides a comprehensive guide on how to envision and prepare for the future. Drawing on various fields of study, the book offers a unique approach to future forecasting and equips readers with the tools and mindset to face even the most seemingly impossible challenges.
ViewDecisive - How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work
Chip Heath, Dan Heath
Key Insights from "Decisive - How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work" Decision-making is a process, not an event, and often our inherent biases can lead to poor choices. The authors propose a four-step process, the WRAP model, to counteract these biases and make better decisions. Widen your options: Avoid the narrow frame of choosing between two options and consider multiple alternatives. Reality-test your assumptions: Seek disconfirming evidence and consider the opposite of your initial beliefs. Attain distance before deciding: Overcome short-term emotion by considering the long-term implications of your decision. Prepare to be wrong: Consider a range of outcomes, both good and bad, and plan for different scenarios. The book emphasizes the importance of testing assumptions and seeking diverse perspectives in decision-making. Emotion and overconfidence are common pitfalls in decision-making that can be counteracted by the WRAP process. Decision-making should be data-driven and informed by evidence and experimentation, not solely intuition. Effective decision-making requires discipline and practice, but it can often lead to better outcomes in both personal and professional contexts. In-Depth Analysis and Summary "Decisive - How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath is a pivotal text that addresses the critical skill of decision-making. It goes beyond merely emphasizing the importance of making good decisions, and instead, provides a comprehensive, actionable framework to actually achieve this goal. The book opens with the assertion that decision-making is a process, not an event. This is significant because it challenges the common perception of decisions as singular choices made in moments of crisis or opportunity. Instead, the authors argue that decisions are the result of a series of steps that can be analyzed, understood, and improved to yield better outcomes. The core of the book is the introduction of a four-step process known as the WRAP model. Each letter in the acronym represents a step in the decision-making process: Widen your options, Reality-test your assumptions, Attain distance before deciding, and Prepare to be wrong. This model is designed to counteract the inherent biases that often lead to poor decisions. The first step, Widening your options, addresses the common bias of narrow framing, where we often limit our choices to a binary this-or-that decision. By considering multiple alternatives, we can explore a wider range of possibilities and avoid the pitfalls of a limited perspective. The next step, Reality-testing your assumptions, is about seeking disconfirming evidence and considering the opposite of your initial beliefs. This counteracts the confirmation bias, where we tend to favor information that supports our pre-existing beliefs and ignore contrary evidence. The third step, Attaining distance before deciding, helps overcome the influence of short-term emotion on our decisions. By considering the long-term implications of our choices, we can avoid impulsive decisions that feel good in the moment but lead to regrets in the future. The final step, Preparing to be wrong, encourages us to consider a range of outcomes, both good and bad, and to plan for different scenarios. This step helps counteract the overconfidence bias, where we tend to underestimate the risk of negative outcomes and overestimate the likelihood of success. Throughout the book, the authors emphasize the importance of testing assumptions and seeking diverse perspectives in decision-making. They argue that the best decisions are often those that have been challenged and scrutinized, not those that have been made quickly and unquestioningly. Furthermore, the authors stress that effective decision-making should be data-driven and informed by evidence and experimentation, not solely intuition. This reflects the growing trend in many professional fields towards data-driven decision-making, where decisions are based on tangible evidence and tested hypotheses rather than gut feelings or untested assumptions. Finally, Heath and Heath highlight that effective decision-making requires discipline and practice. Like any other skill, making good decisions takes time, effort, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. Yet the benefits of improved decision-making, in both our personal and professional lives, make this effort worthwhile. In conclusion, "Decicive - How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work" offers a practical and comprehensive guide to improving our decision-making skills. By understanding and applying the WRAP model, we can overcome our inherent biases, make informed choices, and achieve better outcomes in all areas of our lives.
ViewAtomic Habits - the life-changing million-copy #1 bestseller
James Clear
The book "Atomic Habits" by James Clear is a must-read guide for anyone seeking to cultivate good habits, break bad ones and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results. As a professor with many years of experience in the field of behavior change and habit formation, I find Clear’s work an insightful and practical contribution to the growing body of literature on the subject. Key Facts and Insights Habits are the compound interest of self-improvement: The smallest habits, when consistently practiced, can lead to significant transformations over time. Focus on systems, not goals: Clear argues that the system of actions we follow is more important than the goal we are striving for. The Four Laws of Behavior Change: Clear presents the laws of Cue, Craving, Response, and Reward as the fundamental process of habit formation. Environment matters: Our surroundings play a massive role in shaping our habits and behaviors. Identity-based habits: The most effective way to change your habits is to focus on who you wish to become, not what you want to achieve. Making habits attractive: The more appealing the habit, the more likely it is to become ingrained. Use habit stacking: Pairing a new habit with an existing one can make it easier to adopt. Make habits easy: The easier a habit is to start, the more likely it is to stick. Immediate rewards: Habits are more likely to become ingrained if they are immediately rewarding. Continuous improvement: Focusing on getting 1% better each day can lead to significant growth over time. Tracking habits: Keeping track of habits helps maintain consistency and creates a visual cue to prompt action. In-Depth Analysis 1. The Power of Atomic Habits: The book begins by introducing the concept of atomic habits, which are small, routine behaviors that, when practiced consistently, can lead to significant changes in our lives. This concept is reminiscent of the Kaizen approach in Japanese management theory, which emphasizes continuous improvement through small, incremental changes. 2. Systems vs Goals: Clear posits that focusing on systems rather than goals is more beneficial to long-term success. This echoes Peter Drucker's management by objectives (MBO) approach, which emphasizes the importance of process over outcome. While goals are about the results we want to achieve, systems are about the processes that lead to those results. 3. The Four Laws of Behavior Change: Clear presents the Four Laws of Behavior Change - Cue, Craving, Response, and Reward - as the basis of habit formation and modification. This model is similar to B.F. Skinner's Operant Conditioning theory, which also uses cues (antecedents) and rewards (consequences) to shape behavior. 4. Environment and Habits: Clear emphasizes the importance of environment in shaping our habits, an idea supported by numerous studies in environmental psychology. By manipulating our environment to make good habits easier and bad habits harder, we can influence our behaviors more effectively. 5. Identity-Based Habits: Clear suggests that habits are more likely to stick when they align with our self-identity. This is consistent with the Self-Perception Theory by Daryl Bem, which posits that people infer their attitudes and beliefs from observing their own behavior. 6. Making Habits Attractive and Easy: Clear suggests making habits attractive and easy to start. He advises to use 'temptation bundling' and 'habit stacking' to make new habits more appealing. This is in line with the Premack's Principle, a psychological concept that suggests more probable behaviors will reinforce less probable behaviors. 7. Immediate Rewards and Habit Tracking: Clear stresses the importance of immediate gratification in habit formation. This is consistent with the concept of 'delay discounting' in behavioral economics, which suggests that people are more likely to choose immediate rewards over delayed ones. Habit tracking is recommended as a method to provide this immediate gratification and visually cue action. In conclusion, "Atomic Habits" offers a comprehensive, evidence-based framework for understanding and shaping our habits. It serves as a bridge between academic research and practical application, offering readers actionable strategies to transform their habits and, thereby, their lives.
ViewDesigning Machine Learning Systems
Chip Huyen
Key Insights from "Designing Machine Learning Systems" Machine Learning (ML) is not an isolated discipline: It involves a blend of mathematics, statistics, computer science, and domain-specific knowledge. Understanding the problem at hand is crucial: The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the problem you are trying to solve before you start coding. Real-world ML projects are messy: Real-world ML problems are often unstructured, and require a fair amount of data cleaning and preprocessing. Iterative development is key: The process of developing a machine learning system is iterative, involving data collection, feature extraction, model selection, training, evaluation, and deployment. Choosing the right model is fundamental: The choice of model is crucial and should depend on the problem, the data, and the computational resources at hand. Evaluation of an ML system is complex: It involves understanding the trade-off between bias and variance, precision and recall, and other metrics. Deployment is a crucial phase: Deploying a machine learning system is not the end, but rather the beginning of a new phase that involves monitoring, maintenance, and continuous learning. Machine Learning is evolving: It is important to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in the field. Detailed Analysis of "Designing Machine Learning Systems" The author, Chip Huyen, is a well-known figure in the field of machine learning. She has combined her practical experiences and theoretical knowledge to provide a comprehensive guide to designing machine learning systems. The book begins by emphasizing that machine learning is not an isolated discipline, but a combination of several fields. It requires a blend of mathematics for understanding algorithms, statistics for interpreting results, computer science for implementing algorithms, and domain knowledge for applying machine learning to specific problems. This perspective is important as it sets the tone for the interdisciplinary nature of machine learning. One of the key insights from the book is the importance of understanding the problem at hand. It is essential to understand the problem you are trying to solve, the available data, and the desired outcome before you start coding. This is a clear departure from the common practice of jumping straight into coding without a clear understanding of the problem. The author also provides a realistic view of how messy real-world ML projects can be. Real-world problems are often unstructured and involve messy data that requires significant preprocessing. This includes dealing with missing data, outliers, and unbalanced datasets. The book also emphasizes the importance of iterative development in machine learning. The process of building a machine learning system involves several stages – data collection, feature extraction, model selection, training, evaluation, and deployment. Each stage requires careful planning and execution, and the process is often iterative, with each stage feeding back into the previous one. One of the most important aspects of machine learning, according to the book, is choosing the right model. The choice of model should be based on the nature of the problem, the available data, and the computational resources at hand. The book provides practical tips on how to choose the right model for a given problem. The evaluation of a machine learning system is another complex process that the book delves into. It discusses various metrics for evaluating the performance of a machine learning system, and the trade-offs between them. For example, it discusses the trade-off between bias and variance, and between precision and recall. Another important aspect that the book focuses on is the deployment phase of a machine learning system. It emphasizes that deployment is not the end, but rather the beginning of a new phase that involves monitoring, maintenance, and continuous learning. It also discusses the challenges of deploying machine learning systems in production. Lastly, the book emphasizes that machine learning is constantly evolving, and it is important to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in the field. In conclusion, "Designing Machine Learning Systems" provides a comprehensive, practical, and realistic guide to building machine learning systems. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the problem at hand, iterative development, choosing the right model, evaluating the system, and the deployment phase. By focusing on these aspects, the book provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in machine learning.
ViewINSPIRED - How to Create Tech Products Customers Love
Marty Cagan
Key Insights from "INSPIRED: How to Create Tech Products Customers Love" Emphasizes that product management is a team sport, advocating for a cross-functional team approach. Illuminates the importance of discovering the right product to build before diving into the development. Reveals the role of product managers as the discoverers of the product, not simply project managers. Encourages adopting an outcome-based rather than output-based approach to product development. Highly recommends the application of prototyping and testing techniques to validate ideas before committing to full development. Asserts the necessity of continuous product discovery for sustainable success. Advises on how to establish a customer-centric culture in a tech organization. Reinforces the value of learning from product failures, not just successes. Insists on the importance of strong leadership in product management. Underlines the need for strategic alignment between the product team and the larger organization. Stresses on the significance of a shared product vision within the team. Deeper Analysis of the Book "INSPIRED: How to Create Tech Products Customers Love" by Marty Cagan, a Silicon Valley product management veteran, is a veritable guide for tech entrepreneurs, product managers, and those aspiring to create successful tech products. Starting with the assertion that product management is a team sport, Cagan underscores the necessity of collaboration among cross-functional teams. This aligns with the concept of Collective Ownership in Agile methodologies, where everyone in the team is responsible for the quality and success of the product. The book extensively discusses the role of product managers, distinguishing them from project managers. Cagan positions product managers as the discoverers of the product. This involves understanding customer needs, exploring market opportunities, and working closely with the product team to create a product that aligns with the business objectives and customer expectations. One of the notable principles that Cagan advocates for is an outcome-based approach over an output-based one. This shift in focus from simply delivering features to achieving desired outcomes is a core tenet of modern product management, emphasizing on value creation rather than just activity. In "INSPIRED", Cagan also emphasizes the importance of continuous product discovery. This is about constantly seeking to understand customers, experimenting with solutions, and validating ideas before committing to full-scale development. The principle resonates with the Lean Startup methodology, particularly the Build-Measure-Learn feedback loop. Prototyping and testing are other key aspects that Cagan discusses. He advises product teams to validate their ideas with low-fidelity prototypes, conduct usability tests, and gather feedback to refine the product. This aligns with the principle of Fail Fast, Fail Often in Agile, which encourages learning through quick experiments and iterations. An essential part of creating tech products that customers love, according to Cagan, is establishing a customer-centric culture. This involves prioritizing customer needs and feedback in the product development process, which is a fundamental principle of Human-Centered Design. Cagan also acknowledges that not all product initiatives will succeed. He encourages teams to learn from product failures and to leverage these learnings to improve future products. This resonates with the concept of a Learning Organization, where failure is seen as an opportunity for learning and growth. Underpinning all these principles, Cagan stresses the importance of strong leadership in product management. He insists that leaders should inspire, guide, and empower their teams to do their best work, which aligns with the concept of Servant Leadership in Agile. Lastly, Cagan highlights the need for strategic alignment and a shared product vision. This implies that all efforts of the product team should be directed towards achieving the strategic goals of the organization, and everyone on the team should understand and be committed to the product vision. In conclusion, "INSPIRED: How to Create Tech Products Customers Love" is a comprehensive guide that offers invaluable insights and practical advice on how to create successful tech products. It should be a must-read for anyone involved in product management, as it encapsulates the collective wisdom of one of the most experienced product managers in the tech industry.
ViewThe Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life
Mark Manson
Key Insights from "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" Embrace the Struggle: Struggle is an inevitable part of life, and the key to success is not avoiding struggle but rather selecting the struggles that are worth the effort. Values: It’s crucial to choose good values to measure success, such as honesty, innovation, vulnerability, etc., rather than unhealthy ones like material success. Finding Happiness: Happiness is not about always being positive, but rather about being comfortable with negative experiences and emotions. Responsibility: We should take responsibility for our life and actions, irrespective of whether we are at fault or not. Acceptance: Accepting the reality of our mortality can help us live a more meaningful life. Freedom: Freedom is not about having no limitations, but rather about choosing our limitations. Rejection of Entitlement: We are not entitled to a perfect life and accepting this can lead to personal growth. Failure: Failure is a part of growth. We learn from our failures, not from our successes. Uncertainty: It’s important to accept that we don’t know everything and uncertainty is a part of life. Commitment: Commitment to our values and passions is the pathway to satisfaction. An In-Depth Analysis of "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" by Mark Manson is a profoundly counterintuitive self-help guide that challenges conventional wisdom about happiness and success. The book provides a refreshing perspective on personal development, focusing on embracing negatives in life and understanding that struggle is a critical part of growth. The first key insight from the book is about embracing the struggle. Manson asserts that problems are a constant in life. Life is essentially an endless series of problems and the key to happiness is solving these problems. The idea is not to avoid problems or struggle, but to find the problems worth struggling for, the ones that align with our personal values. This leads us to the second insight on values. Manson suggests that we often choose inappropriate values to measure our success. Our society tends to encourage values like wealth, fame, and beauty, but these are outside of our control and thus lead to dissatisfaction. Instead, we should choose values that are within our control, like honesty, innovation, standing up for oneself, vulnerability, etc. The third insight is about finding happiness. Manson challenges the widely accepted notion that a happy life is a life full of constant positivity. Instead, he suggests that happiness comes from the ability to manage and be comfortable with the negative experiences that inevitably occur in our lives. The fourth insight revolves around the concept of responsibility. According to Manson, we need to take responsibility for our life and actions, even when we are not at fault. By doing so, we empower ourselves to change our circumstances and our responses to them. The fifth insight, acceptance, is one of the most profound and challenging. Manson asks us to accept the reality of our mortality. This can be a deeply unsettling thought, but according to Manson, it can also spur us to live in the present and lead a more meaningful life. In the sixth insight, Manson redefines freedom. He argues that real freedom is about self-imposed limitations, not an absence of limitations. It's about choosing what we want to give a f*ck about. Manson also rejects the notion of entitlement in the seventh insight. He argues that believing we are entitled to a good life just because we exist is a destructive idea. Instead, we should strive for growth and improvement. In the eighth insight, Manson highlights the importance of failure. He argues that we learn more from our failures than our successes, and that failure is an integral part of growth and improvement. The ninth insight is about uncertainty. Manson emphasizes that we should accept that we don’t know everything. This acceptance of uncertainty allows us to be more open to new experiences and ideas. Finally, the tenth insight is about commitment. Manson notes that satisfaction comes from commitment to our values and passions, not from avoiding discomfort or seeking pleasure. In conclusion, "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" by Mark Manson provides an unconventional yet insightful approach to living a good life. It challenges us to embrace struggle, choose meaningful values, accept our mortality, and take responsibility for our lives. While it may be uncomfortable to confront these ideas, doing so can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
ViewUpstream - The Quest to Solve Problems Before They Happen
Dan Heath
Key Facts and Insights from "Upstream - The Quest to Solve Problems Before They Happen" Identifying problems in their nascent stages and addressing them proactively is more effective than reactive problem-solving. Addressing the root causes of issues, instead of the symptoms, leads to more sustainable solutions. Barriers to upstream thinking include problem blindness, lack of ownership, and tunneling. There are three forces to overcome these barriers: unite the right people, change the system, and find a point of leverage. Successful upstream interventions require measurement and feedback loops to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments. Case studies from various fields illustrate the application of upstream thinking. Implementing upstream thinking does not imply that downstream solutions should be completely ignored. Upstream solutions can lead to significant savings in resources, time, and effort in the long run. Upstream thinking is applicable across various domains including healthcare, education, business, and public policy. Proactive problem-solving demands a shift in mindset from short-term firefighting to long-term strategic planning. Upstream thinking can lead to innovative solutions that disrupt traditional ways of doing things. An In-Depth Analysis of "Upstream - The Quest to Solve Problems Before They Happen" In "Upstream - The Quest to Solve Problems Before They Happen", Dan Heath advocates for a proactive approach to problem-solving. He argues that we often fall into the trap of dealing with problems as they arise, rather than identifying and addressing them before they become significant. This perspective aligns with the principles of preventative measures and risk management that are widely recognized in my field. Heath identifies three barriers to upstream thinking: problem blindness, lack of ownership, and tunneling. Problem blindness is the inability to recognize a problem before it becomes critical. Lack of ownership refers to situations where everyone assumes someone else will solve the problem. Tunneling is focusing too much on immediate issues that long-term problems are overlooked. These barriers are reminiscent of the tragedy of the commons, where individual short-term interests lead to collective long-term damages. Heath proposes that there are three forces to overcome these barriers: unite the right people, change the system, and find a point of leverage. Uniting the right people involves bringing together different stakeholders who have a shared interest in solving the problem. Changing the system refers to modifying the underlying structures or processes that contribute to the problem. Finding a point of leverage means identifying an area where a small change can make a significant impact. These strategies align with the concepts of stakeholder engagement, system thinking, and leverage points in systems dynamics. Heath emphasizes the importance of measurement and feedback loops in implementing upstream solutions. He argues that it's crucial to measure progress, learn from failures, and make necessary adjustments. This aligns with the principles of evidence-based practice and continuous improvement that are well-established in my field. Heath provides various case studies that illustrate the application of upstream thinking. These case studies demonstrate the versatility of upstream solutions across various domains including healthcare, education, business, and public policy. They serve as powerful examples of how upstream interventions can lead to significant savings in resources, time, and effort in the long run. However, Heath also cautions that implementing upstream thinking does not mean that downstream solutions should be completely ignored. He reminds us that while upstream solutions address the root causes of problems, downstream solutions are still necessary to handle the immediate symptoms. This is a salient reminder that a balanced approach is needed in problem-solving. In conclusion, "Upstream - The Quest to Solve Problems Before They Happen" presents a compelling argument for proactive problem-solving. It advocates for a shift in mindset from short-term firefighting to long-term strategic planning. It introduces the concept of upstream thinking and provides practical strategies for its implementation. As an experienced professor in this field, I find this book a valuable resource that complements and enriches my understanding of problem-solving, risk management, and strategic planning.
ViewHBR's 10 Must Reads on Design Thinking (with featured article "Design Thinking" By Tim Brown)
Harvard Business Review, Tim Brown, Clayton M. Christensen, Indra Nooyi, Vijay Govindarajan
Key Facts and Insights Design Thinking is a people-centered, problem-solving approach: The book emphasizes that design thinking is not just about creating aesthetically pleasing products and services. Instead, it is a holistic, human-centered approach to solving complex problems. Iterative process: Design thinking is an iterative process that involves empathizing, defining, ideating, prototyping, and testing. These stages are flexible and can be repeated as needed. The role of empathy: One of the foundational principles of design thinking is empathy. Design thinkers need to understand the perspectives, emotions, and motivations of the people for whom they are designing solutions. Importance of cross-functional teams: Innovation is best achieved with diverse, cross-functional teams where everyone contributes their unique perspective and expertise. Experimentation and failure: Design thinking encourages risk-taking, experimentation, and learning from failures. It is through such experiences that truly innovative solutions can emerge. Business Strategy and Design Thinking: The book explores how design thinking can inform business strategy, leading to more innovative, customer-centric businesses. Real-world Case Studies: The book includes case studies from leading companies like Procter & Gamble, PepsiCo, and IBM, providing practical insights into how design thinking can be implemented. The role of leadership: Leadership plays a crucial role in fostering a culture that supports design thinking. Leaders need to encourage experimentation, tolerate failure, and promote a customer-centric mindset. Design thinking and social change: The book underscores that design thinking can be used to drive social change, not just commercial success. The future of Design Thinking: The book speculates on the future of design thinking, including its potential impact on artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. In-Depth Summary and Analysis "HBR's 10 Must Reads on Design Thinking" is a collection of 10 Harvard Business Review articles that provide a comprehensive exploration of design thinking. This compilation, featuring an article by design thinking pioneer Tim Brown, offers a deep dive into the principles, methods, and real-world applications of design thinking. The book sets out by defining design thinking as a human-centered, problem-solving approach. It explains that design thinking is not just about designing aesthetically pleasing products but involves understanding the needs and perspectives of the people facing the problem. This perspective aligns with John Dewey's philosophy of "learning by doing," which emphasizes the importance of experiential learning. Central to design thinking is the iterative process, which includes empathizing, defining, ideating, prototyping, and testing. The book explains that these stages are not linear but flexible, allowing design thinkers to return to previous stages as new insights emerge. This iterative nature is reminiscent of the scientific method, where hypotheses are tested, results are analyzed, and theories are refined based on the findings. Empathy, the book suggests, is the cornerstone of design thinking. Design thinkers must put themselves in the shoes of the people they are designing for, understanding their needs, feelings, and motivations. This is similar to the concept of "user-centered design" championed by Donald Norman, which emphasizes the importance of understanding user needs and limitations. The book also underscores the importance of cross-functional teams in design thinking. It suggests that diverse teams, where everyone contributes their unique perspective and expertise, are more likely to generate innovative solutions. This aligns with the concept of "collective intelligence," which posits that diverse groups often make better decisions than individuals or homogeneous groups. Design thinking encourages risk-taking, experimentation, and learning from failures. The book echoes the sentiments of many Silicon Valley innovators, who believe that "failure is not an option; it's a requirement." By embracing failure, design thinkers can generate innovative solutions that push boundaries and challenge the status quo. The book explores how design thinking can inform business strategy, leading to more innovative, customer-centric businesses. It suggests that design thinking can help businesses identify new market opportunities, create differentiated products and services, and improve customer experiences. This notion aligns with the "Blue Ocean Strategy," which encourages companies to create uncontested market space rather than competing in existing markets. The book includes case studies from leading companies like Procter & Gamble, PepsiCo, and IBM, providing practical insights into how design thinking can be implemented. These case studies demonstrate how design thinking can lead to breakthrough innovations, improved operational efficiency, and increased customer satisfaction. Leadership plays a crucial role in fostering a culture that supports design thinking. The book suggests that leaders need to encourage experimentation, tolerate failure, and promote a customer-centric mindset. This aligns with the concept of "transformational leadership," which emphasizes the role of leaders in inspiring and motivating their followers. The book underscores that design thinking can be used to drive social change, not just commercial success. It suggests that design thinking can help address complex social issues, such as poverty, health care, and education. This aligns with the concept of "social innovation," which involves finding novel solutions to social problems. Finally, the book speculates on the future of design thinking, including its potential impact on artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. It suggests that design thinking can help ensure that these technologies are developed and used in ways that benefit humanity. In conclusion, "HBR's 10 Must Reads on Design Thinking" offers a comprehensive exploration of design thinking, providing valuable insights for anyone interested in innovation, problem-solving, and human-centered design.
ViewThinking 101 - How to Reason Better to Live Better
Woo-kyoung Ahn
Key Insights from "Thinking 101 - How to Reason Better to Live Better" Understanding the Concept of Reasoning: The book explains the concept of reasoning and its significance in our daily lives. Logical Thinking: Logical thinking is a core component of reasoning, which the book thoroughly explores. Emotional Intelligence: The role of emotional intelligence in reasoning is a key focus of the book. Role of Cognitive Biases: The book highlights how cognitive biases can hinder effective reasoning. Decision Making: Decision making and its relationship with reasoning is a significant part of the book's content. Reasoning and Communication: The book explains how reasoning can improve interpersonal and professional communication. Critical Thinking: The book encourages the cultivation of critical thinking to enhance reasoning abilities. The Science of Reasoning: The book delves into the scientific aspects of reasoning, including neurology and psychology. Practical Application: The book provides practical exercises and applications for improving reasoning skills. Reasoning and Self-improvement: The book emphasises how reasoning can lead to self-improvement and a better life. An In-depth Analysis of "Thinking 101 - How to Reason Better to Live Better" "Thinking 101 - How to Reason Better to Live Better" by Woo-kyoung Ahn is a comprehensive guide that aims to equip readers with the skills to reason more effectively, thereby enhancing their decision-making abilities and overall quality of life. The book is grounded in the belief that reasoning is a fundamental skill that can be honed and improved over time. Understanding the Concept of Reasoning and Logical Thinking The first two chapters of the book delve into the concept of reasoning and its importance in our daily lives. Ahn explains that reasoning is an inherent aspect of human cognition and is integral to our survival and success as a species. The book then segues into the role of logical thinking in reasoning. Logical thinking is the process of analyzing situations or propositions in a structured, step-by-step manner, which aids in making sound judgments and decisions. Emotional Intelligence and Cognitive Biases Ahn does not neglect the role of emotions in reasoning. She discusses the concept of emotional intelligence, explaining that it enhances reasoning by allowing us to understand and manage our emotions and those of others. However, she also highlights how cognitive biases - systematic errors in thinking that affect our judgments and decisions - can hinder effective reasoning. The book provides strategies for identifying and overcoming these biases, thereby improving our reasoning skills. Decision Making, Reasoning, and Communication A key theme in the book is the relationship between reasoning and decision making. Ahn argues that improved reasoning skills can lead to better decision-making abilities, which can significantly enhance our personal and professional lives. She also emphasises the role of reasoning in communication, explaining that reasoning can help us articulate our thoughts and ideas more effectively, thereby improving our interpersonal and professional communication skills. Critical Thinking Ahn encourages readers to cultivate critical thinking - the ability to analyze information objectively and make reasoned judgments. This, she argues, is a crucial aspect of reasoning, as it allows us to make informed decisions and solve problems more effectively. The Science of Reasoning and Practical Application The book also delves into the scientific aspects of reasoning, exploring how our brains process information and make decisions. Ahn provides a detailed yet accessible overview of the neurology and psychology of reasoning, which adds a fascinating dimension to the book. In the concluding chapters, Ahn provides practical exercises and applications for improving reasoning skills. These exercises are designed to help readers apply the concepts and techniques discussed in the book to their daily lives. Reasoning and Self-improvement Ultimately, Ahn emphasises that reasoning is a tool for self-improvement. She argues that by honing our reasoning skills, we can make better decisions, communicate more effectively, and ultimately live better lives. In conclusion, "Thinking 101 - How to Reason Better to Live Better" is a comprehensive guide to reasoning that combines theoretical concepts with practical applications. It equips readers with the skills to reason more effectively, thereby enhancing their decision-making abilities and overall quality of life.
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20.November 2023The session with Sanjana was very helpful. She was very practical in her guidance. She also guided me the alternate paths which I could explore to rise in my career. I am really thankful to her since I am much clear in my decision.