Multiple experiments have shown that when experts express doubt, they become more persuasive. When someone knowledgeable admits uncertainty, it surprises people, and they end up paying more attention to the substance of their argument.
Adam Grant, Think Again
Podcast episode recommendation. I listened to Brené Brown’s conversation with Adam Grant on her “Dare to Lead” podcast while on my run this morning. I was already familiar with Adam Grant’s work and this definitely made me put his latest book, Think Again, on my reading list.
They talked about the power of doubt and unlearning and relearning. Aka: “If knowledge is power, knowing what we don’t know is wisdom.”
My biggest reminder and takeaway: we should change our minds more often. We should dare to challenge our own beliefs. We should update and edit based on new information, learning, and data. Take this exchange:
Brené Brown: Are you saying the best forecasters are the people who challenge their embedded beliefs and change beliefs, based on new information and data?
Adam Grant: Yeah, that’s exactly right. They don’t just disagree with other people’s predictions. They dare to disagree with their own forecasts, and that means they get to keep learning.
It reminds me of another Brené Brown-ish: I’m not here to be right; I’m here to get it right. I could do better to remember that and get into that “scientist mindset” rather than defaulting to preaching and holding to my convictions.
Again and again I repeat it: I’m here to get it right. I’m here to get it right. I’m not here to prove myself, I’m here to improve myself. Keep growing.
With Love,
Natalie