Keep It Simple (Stupid)
“High school taught me big words. College rewarded me for using big words. Then I graduated and realized that intelligent readers outside the classroom don’t want big words. They want complex ideas made simple. If you don’t believe it from a journalist, believe it from an academic: ‘When people feel insecure about their social standing in a group, they are more likely to use jargon in an attempt to be admired and respected,’ the Columbia University psychologist Adam Galinsky told me. His study and other research found that when people use complicated language, they tend to come across as low-status or less intelligent. Why? It’s the complexity trap: Complicated language and jargon offer writers the illusion of sophistication, but jargon can send a signal to some readers that the writer is dense or overcompensating.”
Derek Thompson via The Atlantic
__________
No News is Good News
“Rarely do we stop to ask ourselves questions about the media we consume: Is this good for me? Is this dense with detailed information? Is this important? Is this going to stand the test of time? Is the person writing someone who is well informed on the issue? Asking those questions makes it clear the news isn’t good for you.”
“Why You Should Stop Reading the News” via Farnum Street Brain Food Newsletter – Jan 2, 2021
__________
Open to Change
“When I was younger, I embraced (subconsciously, as I was sleepwalking through life) the notion that you can make any decision the right one through leadership and persuasion. I was more focused on proving my decisions were right … because I’m awesome … than on making the best ones. Granted, there’s a benefit to making decisions quickly, as speed can compensate, somewhat, for misdirection. But there’s being decisive, and then there’s being allergic to course correction. People often mistake this for being principled … it’s not. Your decisions are a guide and an action plan, not a suicide pact. Be open to evolving, changing your mind when presented with new data or compelling views and insights. A step back from the wrong path is a step in the right direction.”
The Algebra of Decisions by Scott Galloway
__________
“Note: There’s no such thing as quality time with kids. Just time, as the moments of real engagement are elusive and unexpected.”
Unlocks by Professor Galloway
__________
“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.”
Epicurus
__________
As always, thanks for reading!
If you like this newsletter please share it with others that might enjoy it (that’s the ultimate compliment). They can sign up here.