Hi, I'm Dalibor, a seasoned technology leader with almost two decades of working in a tech industry, as a developer and a tech lead. I've worked on over 200 projects in my career, and helped a lot of people with my courses and tutorials. As a self-taught developer, I have risen through the ranks from a very junior position to team leader, tech lead, and practice lead of large teams. I have used all possible methods, including learning, networking, negotiating, and arguing, to improve my skills and become a key player in every organization I have worked for. In my personal time I love traveling, camping, learning new things and improving myself, but I am also involved in educating and sharing knowledge trough tutorials and courses on the youtube https://www.youtube.com/@ApplicableProgramming Also I am recently quite often standing on the stage and talking about AI topics.
My Mentoring Topics
- Leading Engineering Teams
- Programming career
- Technical leadership
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The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - Restoring the Character Ethic
Stephen R. Covey
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People: A Comprehensive Review and Analysis Key Insights: Importance of proactive behavior and taking responsibility for one's own life. Starting with the end in mind as a way to set clear and achievable goals. Prioritizing tasks based on their importance rather than their urgency. Thinking win-win, or seeking mutually beneficial solutions in all interactions. Understanding before being understood as a way to build effective communication. Synergizing, or combining the strengths of people through teamwork, to achieve goals that can't be achieved individually. Sharpening the saw, or seeking continuous improvement and renewal professionally and personally. The underlying principle of character ethic as a timeless guide for effective living. The power of paradigm shift in shaping our perceptions and behaviors. The role of personal and public victories in achieving effectiveness. The concept of emotional bank account as a measure of trust in relationships. The In-depth Review and Analysis "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People: Restoring the Character Ethic" is a profound work by Stephen R. Covey that offers a holistic approach for solving personal and professional problems. The book presents a principle-centered approach for both life and work that applies to everything from personal relationships to business and management challenges. Proactivity is the first habit that Covey discusses. Proactive individuals recognize that they are "response-able," that they have the ability to choose their response to a given situation. This notion of responsibility and choice is fundamental to understanding the subsequent habits and is crucial to achieving effectiveness. Beginning with the end in mind, the second habit, is about setting long-term goals based on "true north" principles. This habit involves personal leadership, leading oneself towards what one considers worthwhile and consistent with one's values. It also involves creating a personal mission statement. The third habit, putting first things first, is about setting priorities. Covey reminds us that the most effective people live their lives by the principle of managing tasks based on their level of importance, not urgency, which leads to personal effectiveness and control over our own lives. The fourth habit, thinking win-win, is not about being nice nor is it a quick-fix technique. It is a character-based code for human interaction and collaboration. This is about seeking mutually beneficial solutions or agreements in our relationships, which leads to sustainable success. Seeking to understand before being understood, the fifth habit, is about empathic communication. It's about listening with the intent to understand, both intellectually and emotionally. This practice paves the way for open and honest communication, leading to deeper relationships and more effective problem-solving. The sixth habit, synergizing, is the collective realization of habits 4 and 5. It's about valuing and celebrating differences to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. It is about teamwork and open-mindedness, leading to innovative solutions. Finally, sharpening the saw is about self-renewal and self-care. It's about regularly renewing and strengthening the four dimensions of our nature - physical, mental, social/emotional, and spiritual. This habit makes all the other habits possible. In essence, the seven habits are not quick-fix solutions, but are habits that need to be cultivated and developed over time. They are about moving from dependence to independence (private victories: habits 1-3) and from independence to interdependence (public victories: habits 4-6), with continuous improvement and renewal (habit 7) as a sustaining force. The book also introduces the concept of paradigm shift and how our perceptions influence our thinking and behavior. It encourages us to shift our paradigms to align with the principles that will enable us to become more effective. The character ethic, as opposed to personality ethic, is another central theme in the book. Covey argues that the character ethic is a more sustainable and ethical guide for living effectively. It involves traits like integrity, humility, fidelity, courage, justice, patience, and simplicity. Finally, the concept of the emotional bank account is a powerful metaphor that describes the amount of trust that’s been built up in a relationship. It reminds us to make regular deposits of kindness, honesty, and keeping commitments to build and maintain healthy relationships. In conclusion, "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" is more than a self-help book. It's a guide to personal and professional effectiveness, offering a blueprint for living based on enduring principles and providing the knowledge and tools to apply these principles to lead a balanced, integrated, and effective life.
ViewSo Good They Can't Ignore You
Cal Newport
Key Insights from the Book: The book challenges the popular career advice that advocates pursuing your passion, stating it's both ambiguous and potentially harmful. It introduces the concept of the "Craftsman Mindset", where the focus is on what you can offer to the world, rather than what the world can offer you. It emphasizes the importance of developing rare and valuable skills, or "career capital", which is a prerequisite for a fulfilling career. The book suggests that job control, or autonomy, is one of the most important elements of a satisfying work life, and can only be achieved by acquiring enough career capital. The concept of "mission" is discussed as a crucial aspect of a meaningful career, but it's not something you find or decide upon, rather it emerges organically as you gain career capital. The book emphasizes that deliberate practice, or pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, is the key to becoming "so good they can't ignore you". Lastly, it presents the idea that "working right" trumps "finding the right work". In other words, how you work is more important than what work you do. An In-depth Analysis of the Book's Content: "So Good They Can't Ignore You" by Cal Newport is a compelling argument against the prevalent notion of "follow your passion". Instead, Newport posits that passion comes after you've put in the hard work to become excellent at something valuable, not before. This viewpoint is a significant departure from conventional career advice, and it certainly provides food for thought. The book introduces a concept called the "Craftsman Mindset", a focus on what value you're producing in your job rather than what value you're receiving. It's about shifting the perspective from a self-centered mindset, often associated with the "passion mindset", to an others-centered approach. This concept resonates strongly with the idea of "servant leadership" in management literature, which emphasizes the importance of leaders focusing on the needs of the team and the organization over their own. Newport emphasizes the importance of acquiring "career capital", which are rare and valuable skills that you can offer. By developing and investing in these skills, you enhance your worth in the professional marketplace. This idea aligns well with the concept of "human capital theory" in economics, which suggests that individuals can increase their productivity and earnings by investing in their own education and skills. The book argues that job control or autonomy is a crucial factor in a satisfying work life. However, Newport cautions that you can only gain autonomy if you have something valuable to offer in return. This mirrors the concept of "job crafting" in organizational psychology, where employees reshape their job to make it more meaningful. Newport also discusses the role of a "mission" in a meaningful career. He asserts that a mission is not something you find or decide upon, rather it emerges organically as you gain career capital. This idea echoes the concept of "emergent strategy" in strategic management, where strategy emerges over time as an organization adapts to its environment. A significant emphasis is placed on deliberate practice, or consistently pushing your skills beyond your comfort zone. This concept, borrowed from performance psychology, is presented as the key to becoming "so good they can't ignore you". Lastly, the book presents the idea that "working right" trumps "finding the right work". In other words, how you work is more important than what work you do. This perspective aligns with the concept of "job performance" in organizational behavior, which suggests that performance is not just about doing the right job, but doing the job right. In conclusion, Newport's book is a thought-provoking exploration of what makes work fulfilling. By challenging popular notions and introducing new frameworks, it offers a refreshing perspective on career planning and professional growth. The concepts within the book are highly relevant, both to individuals at the beginning of their career journey and to those already well along in their professional lives.
ViewDeep Work - Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World
Cal Newport
Key Facts and Insights from "Deep Work - Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World" Deep work is the ability to focus without distraction on a cognitively demanding task. It's a skill that allows you to quickly master complicated information and produce better results in less time. Newport posits that deep work is becoming increasingly rare in our economy at the same time it is becoming increasingly valuable. Those who cultivate this skill will thrive. The book distinguishes between deep work (activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration that push cognitive capabilities to their limit) and shallow work (non-cognitively demanding logistical-style tasks often performed while distracted). Newport proposes four philosophies of deep work scheduling: monastic, bimodal, rhythmic, and journalistic. Embracing boredom and scheduled internet use are key to cultivating a deep work habit. The book discusses the concept of 'attention residue', where switching attention from one task to another reduces cognitive performance. Newport provides practical recommendations for changing work habits to incorporate deep work, such as scheduling every minute of the day and quantifying the depth of every activity. The book also emphasizes the importance of downtime. Idleness can be constructive in providing the brain the necessary rest to enhance deep work. Having a clear shutdown ritual at the end of the workday can aid in achieving work-life balance and ensure readiness for deep work the next day. Deep work is a skill that can be trained. The more one practices, the more one can perform. In-depth Summary and Analysis In "Deep Work - Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World", Cal Newport delves into the concept of deep work, distinguishing it from shallow work. Deep work is defined as activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration that push cognitive capabilities to their limit. These efforts create new value, improve skills, and are difficult to replicate. On the other hand, shallow work is non-cognitively demanding logistical-style tasks often performed while distracted. Newport's argument stems from the premise that deep work is becoming increasingly rare and increasingly valuable in today's economy. As a society, we're leaning more towards tasks that require less focus and are easily replicable, thus reducing our ability to perform deep work. However, the irony lies in the fact that amidst this trend, deep work is becoming more critical for success in most professional fields. The book categorizes approaches to deep work scheduling into four philosophies. The monastic philosophy involves a total removal from shallow obligations, focusing entirely on deep work. The bimodal philosophy allows for deep work in some clearly defined stretches, while the rest of the time is open for everything else. The rhythmic philosophy advocates for establishing a routine where one enters a state of deep work at set times. Lastly, the journalistic philosophy fits in deep work whenever time allows. A crucial concept discussed in the book is 'attention residue'. According to Newport, when we switch our attention from one task to another, the attention does not immediately follow. A residue of the attention remains stuck on the original task. This situation hampers our cognitive performance. Therefore, the continuous switching between tasks, common in our digitally distracted world, reduces our capacity for deep work. Newport also highlights the importance of embracing boredom. In the quest to remain productive, we often seek distractions during any potential downtime, usually resorting to our phones or the internet. However, this constant stimulation trains our mind to never tolerate boredom, thereby reducing our ability to focus when necessary. Therefore, Newport suggests scheduled internet use to control the addiction to distraction. Moreover, Newport emphasizes the importance of downtime. Contrary to the common belief that constant work leads to higher productivity, this book advocates for planned rest. Rest not only helps recharge the brain but also aids in subconscious thinking, which often leads to creative insights. Finally, Newport encourages readers to ritualize the end of the workday with a clear shutdown process. This practice helps to signal the brain that work has ended, allowing it to relax and recharge for the next day. It also helps create a clear boundary between work and personal life, promoting a healthier work-life balance. In conclusion, "Deep Work - Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World" is a compelling argument for the value of deep, focused work. It not only diagnoses the problem of our increasingly distracted world but also provides practical and actionable solutions to reclaim our ability to focus. By embracing the principles of deep work, we can enhance our productivity, creativity, and overall quality of work.
View12 Rules for Life - An Antidote to Chaos
Jordan B. Peterson
Key Insights from "12 Rules for Life - An Antidote to Chaos": Our beliefs and perceptions shape our world. Personal responsibility is essential for a meaningful life. The importance of balance between order and chaos. Being honest with oneself and others is vital for personal growth and relationships. Embracing suffering as a part of life can lead to personal growth. Parenting should involve a balance of discipline and encouragement. The significance of pursuing what is meaningful, not what is expedient. Understanding the value of listening to others and considering their perspectives. The importance of self-care. The power of setting and pursuing personal goals. Strive for improvement, not perfection. In-Depth Summary and Analysis "12 Rules for Life - An Antidote to Chaos" is a thought-provoking exploration of the principles that, according to Peterson, can guide us towards a meaningful, responsible, and harmonious life. As a psychologist and professor, Peterson brings a unique blend of scientific research, psychological insights, and wisdom from ancient traditions to his analysis of these principles. The first rule, "Stand up straight with your shoulders back," goes beyond physical posture. Peterson uses the example of lobsters to illustrate how our beliefs and perceptions can shape our reality. Lobsters, who share with us an evolutionary history, have hierarchical structures determined by success in fights. The victorious lobsters adopt a confident posture, which changes their neurochemistry to make them more confident and successful in future confrontations. This analogy serves to underscore the impact of our mindset on our success and wellbeing. Personal responsibility is a recurring theme in Peterson's work. He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and choices as a means of finding purpose and meaning in life. This is encapsulated in the second rule, "Treat yourself like you are someone you are responsible for helping." Peterson also stresses the importance of balance between order and chaos. He suggests that we need both in our lives to grow and evolve. Too much order can lead to stagnation, while too much chaos can lead to anxiety and confusion. This balance is exemplified in rule three, "Make friends with people who want the best for you," and rule four, "Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today." Honesty, both with ourselves and others, is another vital principle that Peterson discusses. Dishonesty, he argues, breeds resentment and impedes personal growth. This is the premise of rule eight, "Tell the truth — or, at least, don't lie." Embracing suffering as part of life is another theme of Peterson's work. He argues that life is inherently tragic and that we must face and learn from our suffering rather than avoiding it. This is encapsulated in rule six, "Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world." Parenting is another topic that Peterson addresses, advocating for a balance of discipline and encouragement rather than permissive or authoritarian approaches. This is covered in rule five, "Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them." Pursuing what is meaningful, not what is expedient, is another key principle that Peterson discusses. He suggests that instant gratification often leads to long-term dissatisfaction, while working towards meaningful goals, although often more challenging, leads to lasting fulfillment. This is the premise of rule seven, "Pursue what is meaningful (not what is expedient)." Listening to others and considering their perspectives is another important lesson that Peterson highlights. He suggests that we can learn a lot from others if we are willing to listen and consider their viewpoints. This is covered in rule nine, "Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don't." Self-care is another topic that Peterson addresses. He suggests that taking care of our physical, mental, and emotional health is essential for our overall wellbeing. This is covered in rule twelve, "Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street." Finally, Peterson discusses the power of setting and pursuing personal goals. He suggests that having clear goals can give our lives direction and purpose. This is the premise of rule ten, "Be precise in your speech," and rule eleven, "Do not bother children when they are skateboarding." In conclusion, Peterson's "12 Rules for Life - An Antidote to Chaos" offers a comprehensive guide for personal growth and fulfillment. It presents a blend of scientific research, psychological insights, and wisdom from ancient traditions, providing a thought-provoking exploration of the principles that can guide us towards a meaningful, responsible, and harmonious life. As such, it's a valuable resource for anyone interested in personal development and wellbeing.
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.
ViewRich Dad, Poor Dad - What The Rich Teach Their Kids About Money
Robert T. Kiyosaki
Key Facts and Insights from 'Rich Dad, Poor Dad' Financial Literacy: The importance of understanding financial terms and concepts, such as assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. Assets vs. Liabilities: The importance of building assets, which bring income, and minimizing liabilities, which incur expenses. Work for Assets, not Money: The mindset shift from working for money to working to acquire assets. Financial Independence: The idea that financial independence, not a high income, is the key to wealth. The Power of Investing: The potential of investments to generate passive income and increase wealth. Understanding Taxes: The impact of taxes on income and how the rich use tax laws to their advantage. Entrepreneurial Mindset: The value of entrepreneurial skills and mindset in building wealth. Education and Self-Learning: The importance of continuous learning and acquiring financial education. Risk Management: The necessity of taking calculated risks to achieve financial success. Corporation vs. Employee Mindset: The difference between the mindset of an employee, who works for money, and a corporation, which makes money work for it. Importance of Mentors: The significance of having mentors and learning from other people's experiences and mistakes. Analysis and In-depth Summary 'Rich Dad, Poor Dad' by Robert T. Kiyosaki is a seminal work that offers a fresh perspective on personal finance and wealth creation. The book mainly contrasts the financial practices and beliefs of Kiyosaki's two 'dads'—his biological father (Poor Dad) and his friend's father (Rich Dad)—and how their differing views influenced his understanding of money and investing. The book illustrates the importance of financial literacy, emphasizing that understanding financial terms and concepts is crucial to wealth accumulation. This view aligns with existing research that underscores the link between financial literacy and successful financial planning. One of the critical concepts in the book is that of assets and liabilities. Kiyosaki defines assets as anything that puts money in your pocket, like investments and businesses, while liabilities take money out of your pocket, such as mortgages and car loans. He stresses the importance of accumulating assets and minimizing liabilities to build wealth—a fundamental principle of personal finance. Kiyosaki also encourages readers to work for assets, not money. He argues that the traditional mindset of trading time for money limits wealth creation. Instead, he advocates for acquiring assets that generate income over time—a concept reminiscent of the 'money as a tool' philosophy. Financial independence, according to Kiyosaki, is more crucial than high income. He explains that it's not about how much money you earn but how much you keep and how many generations you can keep it. This idea aligns with the principle of 'financial freedom,' where your income from assets can support your lifestyle without the need for active work. The power of investing is another key theme in the book. Kiyosaki emphasizes that investments—in real estate, stocks, or businesses—can generate passive income and enhance wealth. He also discusses the concept of 'return on investment,' which is a significant consideration in investment decisions. Kiyosaki also explores the impact of taxes on income and how wealthy people strategically use tax laws to their advantage. He notes that understanding tax laws and structures can help individuals maximize their wealth—a concept often overlooked in traditional education. In 'Rich Dad, Poor Dad,' Kiyosaki also advocates for an entrepreneurial mindset. He believes that entrepreneurial skills such as problem-solving, leadership, and risk-taking are vital in wealth creation. This perspective ties in with the 'entrepreneurial revolution' theory, which states that entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic growth. The book also emphasizes education and self-learning. Kiyosaki criticizes the traditional education system for its lack of financial education and encourages readers to seek knowledge independently—a principle consistent with 'lifelong learning' philosophy. Risk management is another prominent theme in the book. Kiyosaki advises taking calculated risks and learning from failures—an idea that dovetails with the 'risk-reward tradeoff' concept in investing. The book also contrasts the mindset of an employee and a corporation. Kiyosaki argues that the wealthy make money work for them, unlike employees who work for money. This idea underlines the 'money as a servant, not a master' philosophy. Finally, Kiyosaki underscores the importance of mentors in financial success. He credits his 'Rich Dad' for his financial acumen, suggesting that learning from others' experiences and mistakes can fast-track one's financial success. In conclusion, 'Rich Dad, Poor Dad' provides a comprehensive guide to personal finance and wealth creation. It challenges conventional wisdom on money, encourages financial literacy, and promotes an entrepreneurial mindset—all essential elements in the journey towards financial freedom.
ViewGetting Things Done - The Art of Stress-Free Productivity
David Allen
Key Insights from "Getting Things Done - The Art of Stress-Free Productivity" by David Allen Allen's 5-step process for managing workflow: capture, clarify, organize, reflect, and engage. The concept of "Mind like Water": Allen's metaphor for a mental state that is both relaxed and ready to engage with incoming tasks and information. The importance of immediate decision-making to avoid procrastination. The "Two-Minute Rule": If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, it should be done immediately. The significance of using a trusted system to manage tasks and information. The role of regular reviews in maintaining control and perspective over tasks. The use of context-specific task lists to streamline action. The emphasis on outcome-based thinking to clarify what constitutes 'done' for a task. The need to break down projects into actionable tasks. The idea that free time is not always leisure time: it can be used for thinking, planning, and organizing. An In-Depth Analysis of "Getting Things Done - The Art of Stress-Free Productivity" "Getting Things Done - The Art of Stress-Free Productivity" is a seminal work by productivity consultant David Allen. It presents a comprehensive methodology for managing tasks, projects, and commitments, with the aim of achieving stress-free productivity. Allen's 5-step process for managing workflow is at the heart of the book. The process begins with capturing all things that command our attention; next, it involves clarifying what each item means and what to do about them. The third step is to organize the results, which are then reviewed in the fourth step. The final step is to simply do the tasks. A key concept in Allen's methodology is the state of having a "mind like water". This metaphor, borrowed from martial arts, describes a state where the mind is calm, focused, and ready to respond to whatever comes its way. This is an ideal state for productivity, which Allen argues can be achieved by properly managing our tasks and commitments. Allen's methodology emphasizes the importance of immediate decision-making to avoid procrastination. He introduces the "Two-Minute Rule": if a task takes less than two minutes to complete, it should be done immediately. This saves time and effort in the long run, as it eliminates the need for additional organizing or scheduling. The use of a trusted system to manage tasks and information is another key aspect of Allen's methodology. Such a system could be a simple paper-based planner, a sophisticated digital tool, or anything in between, as long as it reliably captures and organizes tasks and information. Regular reviews play a crucial role in maintaining control and perspective over tasks. Allen recommends weekly reviews as the minimum frequency. Reviews allow us to update our systems, reassess our priorities, and prepare for upcoming tasks. Allen also recommends the use of context-specific task lists. Instead of a single, overwhelming to-do list, Allen suggests creating multiple lists based on context, such as "At Home", "At Office", "Calls", "Errands", etc. This helps us focus on tasks that can be done in our current context, making our work more efficient. Outcome-based thinking is another central concept in Allen's methodology. By clearly defining what constitutes 'done' for a task or a project, we can focus on the desired outcome, which makes our action more purposeful and effective. Allen also emphasizes the need to break down projects into actionable tasks. A project, in Allen's definition, is any desired outcome that requires more than one action step. By breaking down a project, we can overcome the inertia and ambiguity often associated with big tasks. Finally, Allen points out that free time is not always leisure time. It can also be used for thinking, planning, and organizing. By using our free time productively, we can reduce stress and increase our control over our tasks and commitments. In conclusion, "Getting Things Done - The Art of Stress-Free Productivity" provides a comprehensive and practical methodology for managing tasks and commitments. By applying Allen's methodology, we can achieve a state of stress-free productivity, where our mind is calm, focused, and ready to engage with whatever comes our way.
ViewNever Split the Difference - Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It
Chris Voss, Tahl Raz
Key Insights from the Book: The principle of tactical empathy: Understand and recognize the emotions of your counterpart and respond to them in a thoughtful manner. The power of mirroring: Imitate the language and behavior of your counterpart to build rapport and trust. The effectiveness of calibrated questions: Ask questions that allow your counterpart to have control, but steer the conversation towards your desired outcome. The significance of active listening: Listen carefully to what your counterpart is saying and respond accordingly. The role of patience: Give your counterpart time to respond and don’t rush them into making a decision. The importance of a "no": Getting a 'no' is not a failure, but rather an opportunity to understand your counterpart's fears and concerns. The “Ackerman Model”: A strategic bargaining method developed in the FBI, which involves setting a target price, then using a series of calculated offers and conciliatory gestures to reach it. The concept of "Black Swans": Unforeseen events or pieces of information that can dramatically impact the outcome of a negotiation. The value of loss aversion: People are more motivated to avoid losses than to achieve equivalent gains. The utility of "that's right": Getting your counterpart to say "That's right" instead of "You're right," ensures they feel understood and agree with your viewpoint. The "7-38-55 Percent Rule": In communication, 7% of a message is derived from the words, 38% from the tone of voice, and 55% from body language and facial expressions. An In-Depth Analysis of the Book "Never Split the Difference" by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz is a compelling exploration into the art of negotiation. Drawing from his experience as a former FBI hostage negotiator, Voss provides readers with practical techniques to improve their negotiation skills. Understanding and Using Tactical Empathy Tactical empathy is at the heart of successful negotiation. It revolves around understanding and acknowledging the feelings and mindset of your counterpart. By doing so, you can navigate the negotiation process more effectively and achieve favourable outcomes. As a negotiator, it's not enough to understand what the other party wants; you must also comprehend how they feel. This emotional intelligence enables you to build a connection and establish mutual trust, increasing the likelihood of a successful negotiation. Mirroring, Calibrated Questions and Active Listening Voss also highlights the importance of mirroring, calibrated questions, and active listening. Mirroring, which involves imitating your counterpart's language and behaviour, can foster a sense of familiarity and rapport. Calibrated questions, on the other hand, allow you to steer the conversation without appearing aggressive or domineering. These questions typically start with "what" or "how," prompting your counterpart to think deeply and contribute valuable information to the discussion. Active listening is equally crucial. By paying close attention to your counterpart's words, you can identify underlying concerns or interests that may be key to the negotiation. This also signals respect and sincerity, strengthening your relationship with the counterpart. The Value of Patience and the Power of 'No' Patience is a virtue in negotiation. Voss emphasizes the importance of allowing your counterpart sufficient time to respond. A hurried negotiation is unlikely to yield optimal results. Moreover, contrary to common belief, receiving a 'no' from your counterpart is not necessarily a setback. Instead, it can serve as a stepping stone to understanding their fears and concerns better. It gives you the opportunity to address those issues and make a more persuasive case. The Ackerman Model and the Concept of Black Swans The Ackerman model is a bargaining method that involves setting a target price, then using a series of calculated offers and conciliatory gestures to reach it. This method, which requires patience and strategic thinking, can be highly effective in achieving your desired outcome. Voss also introduces the concept of 'Black Swans' – unexpected events or pieces of information that can dramatically alter the negotiation landscape. Identifying potential Black Swans and preparing for them can give you a significant advantage. Loss Aversion, 'That's Right' and the 7-38-55 Percent Rule The book also delves into the psychology of negotiation, discussing concepts like loss aversion and the power of the words 'That's right'. People are typically more motivated to avoid losses than to achieve equivalent gains, and this can be leveraged in negotiation. Getting your counterpart to say 'That's right' instead of 'You're right' ensures they feel understood and agree with your viewpoint. The former indicates genuine agreement, while the latter often signals appeasement. Lastly, Voss presents the "7-38-55 Percent Rule," a principle that underscores the importance of non-verbal communication. It posits that only 7% of a message is derived from words, while 38% comes from the tone of voice, and 55% from body language and facial expressions. In conclusion, "Never Split the Difference" offers a wealth of practical strategies and psychological insights for effective negotiation. It challenges traditional notions, encouraging readers to perceive negotiation through a different lens. Whether it's in a professional context or everyday life, these techniques can undoubtedly enhance your ability to negotiate successfully.
ViewHow to Win Friends and Influence People
Dale Carnegie
Key Facts and Insights from the Book Understanding Human Nature: One of the most significant insights from the book is the importance of understanding human nature to create positive relationships. The Power of Appreciation: Dale Carnegie emphasizes the tremendous power of genuine appreciation in winning friends and influencing people. Importance of Active Listening: Active listening is a key skill for effective communication and building strong relationships. Empathetic Communication: Empathy, understanding, and being genuinely interested in others' perspectives is crucial for influencing people. Constructive Criticism: Carnegie outlines the importance of giving criticism in a constructive and positive manner. The Influence of Positivity: Maintaining a positive attitude can significantly influence people around us and help in winning friends. Principle of Sincerity: Being sincere and honest is vital in any relationship and helps in gaining trust and respect. Importance of a Good First Impression: First impressions significantly set the tone for future interactions and relationships. Remembering and Using People’s Names: Remembering and using people’s names during conversations make them feel valued and important. Encouraging Others to Talk About Themselves: People love talking about themselves and their interests. Encouraging them to do so can help in winning friends. Admitting One’s Mistakes: Admitting our mistakes and learning from them is a sign of maturity and can influence others positively. Detailed Analysis and Summary of the Book Dale Carnegie's book is a timeless classic that provides a comprehensive guide on the art of dealing with people. At its core, the book is about understanding human nature and using this understanding to forge positive and influential relationships. Carnegie posits that understanding and respecting others' feelings is just as important as being understood, and this principle runs as a common thread throughout the book. The power of appreciation cannot be overstated. Carnegie believed that people yearn for sincere and honest appreciation. Offering genuine praise and showing gratitude can win friends and influence people more effectively than anything else. This, however, must be sincere and heartfelt, not mere flattery. The principle of sincerity is essential, as people can easily discern between genuine appreciation and flattery. A crucial skill that Carnegie discusses is active listening. He suggests that being a good listener and showing genuine interest in others can help us win friends. This goes hand in hand with empathetic communication, another significant concept in the book. Carnegie encourages readers to strive to understand others from their perspective, to see things from their point of view, and to validate their feelings and experiences. Carnegie’s approach to criticism is constructive and positive. He advises against criticizing others directly, as it will only lead to resentment. Instead, he suggests giving constructive criticism that encourages improvement without hurting the other person's feelings. The book also emphasizes the influence of positivity. Carnegie believes that maintaining a positive attitude, regardless of the situation, can significantly influence those around us and help in winning friends. This positivity is contagious and can inspire others to adopt a similar outlook. The importance of a good first impression is another vital concept in the book. Carnegie asserts that a positive first impression sets the tone for all future interactions and relationships. He advises readers to always be conscious of how they present themselves to others. Remembering and using people’s names is a simple yet effective technique that Carnegie suggests for winning friends. He believes that a person's name is the sweetest sound to them, and using their name during conversations makes them feel valued and important. Carnegie also recommends encouraging others to talk about themselves. People love talking about their interests, and encouraging them to do so can make them feel important and appreciated, thereby winning their friendship. Finally, Carnegie highlights the importance of admitting one's mistakes. He believes that admitting our mistakes and learning from them is a sign of maturity and can influence others positively. In conclusion, Dale Carnegie's book provides a wealth of knowledge on the art of dealing with people. The principles outlined in the book, if practiced sincerely, can greatly enhance our ability to win friends and influence people.
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25.June 2024Dalibor is a a great person to speak with: straightforward, honest, friendly, and open. We discussed leadership and organizational challenges in his current role as a consultant and AI expert in his company.