Sam Thomas Davies

Words Into Works #099 | The Six Principles of Effective Writing

by | Last updated: | Filed Under: Career Success, Communication Skills, Words Into Works

In Writing for Busy Readers, Jessica Lasky-Fink and Todd Rogers share six universal principles of effective writing. Adaptable to any context, the authors tailor these guidelines to diverse writers and readers, acknowledging varied voices, experiences, and biases. Let’s detail each principle and explore how to communicate effectively in today’s fast-paced world. The Six Principles of […]

Words Into Works #098 | The Six Weapons of Influence

by | Last updated: | Filed Under: Marketing & Sales, Psychology, Words Into Works

In his seminal book Influence, Robert Cialdini explains the science of persuasion, outlining six “weapons of influence” companies and advertisers use to sway decisions. He emphasizes the need for quick decision-making in a busy world, often based on limited information. Cialdini warns of the potential for manipulation with these techniques and urges awareness and active […]

Words Into Works #097 | The First Impression Paradox

by | Last updated: | Filed Under: Psychology, Words Into Works

In his book Plays Well with Others, Eric Barker delves into the complexities of first impressions, highlighting our inherent biases, especially confirmation bias. He introduces “the First Impressions Paradox,” which explains how our initial judgments about people are often accurate but resistant to change. This paradox is rooted in our tendency to favor information that […]

Words Into Works #096 | The Seven Tools for Life

by | Last updated: | Filed Under: Self-Improvement, Words Into Works

In Be Useful, Arnold Schwarzenegger outlines seven fundamental principles for finding one’s true purpose, drawn from his diverse and successful career as an athlete, actor, and politician. Schwarzenegger emphasizes the importance of clear vision, hard work, effective communication, and resilience, all underpinned by his father’s advice to always be useful. Let’s discuss each principle in turn. […]

Words Into Works #095 | The Four Enemies of Clear Thinking

by | Last updated: | Filed Under: Decision Making, Words Into Works

In his book Clear Thinking, Shane Parrish emphasizes the importance of managing our instinctual reactions to maintain clear thinking and focus on our goals. He identifies four key biological defaults—emotion, ego, social, and inertia—that can lead to unforced errors if not consciously controlled. These instincts, beneficial for our ancestors’ survival, can now trigger counterproductive responses […]