The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance

the best book I have read this year so far. Those who want to be the best should read and follow what he has felt and gone through in the process to reach the top.

This is basically a kind of autobiography of Josh Waitzkin, who achieved success in chess from a young age and then moved on to do really well at a martial form of Tai Chi (Push Hands). The book was written after achieving success at the world championships for the latter. But it's a different kind of autobiography in that it focuses on peak performance, and to some extent, ways of learning. Some of the main ideas about performance and learning discussed are: - "Soft Zone" - this is about getting into the flow zone even with distractions - "Making Smaller Circles" - focus on the essence of a technique, then refine it to make it as smooth as possible - "Form to leave form" - letting go of the technical minutiae and develop an intuition or feeling - Focus on depth over breadth, fundamentals over shiny new techniques - Intentional relaxation - focusing intensely then taking breaks - Building a "trigger" - this is a relaxation routine that can be triggered with a cue to get into the right mindset - Dealing with adversity: handling "dirty" players and unfair rules without losing composure - "Chunking" - a set of principles or techniques eventually becomes second-nature, and a building block to the next level, freeing up the conscious mind - Spending a massive amount of time going over the hard parts (this is also known as "deliberate practice") - Developing presence and awareness, channelling negative emotions into something better - Having a growth mindset, which is based on incremental improvements and putting yourself in difficult situations to improve The book has a lively, sentimental style and Josh clearly writes from the heart. It's pretty well written, especially considering he must have done it in his late 20s. Some of the advice is a little mystical and you can sense his influence from Eastern philosophies and religions. For a guy who's achieved a lot he is quite humble and modest, and acknowledges at all points the people who were supportive and helped him. I think for anyone doing anything competitive or just wanting to up their game and learn more, this is a good read.

One of the best inspiring book for all the competitives people. The author delivers a percing insight of human mind when it comes to improving. I'd recommand this book to every perso who cares about self improvement.

The best book I've read on achieving high-level performance. There is neither scientific jargons nor convoluted strategies, but rather, it offers a simple and effective approach to doing better in life based on the author's life experience. Go read it and apply it to your life!

Good book, recommended