The World's Best Book Summaries
How do societal norms perpetuate unhealthy standards? Where do “abnormal” behaviors stem from? Are the mind and body one? In The Myth of Normal, physician and trauma expert Gabor Maté says that there is no such thing as normal when it comes to health and behaviors. Maté argues that the biomedical model fails to understand health holistically. Here’s why “abnormal” behaviors are actually normal responses to one’s environment.
Why do people with ADHD have trouble judging time? How does time blindness affect even the little things in life? People with ADHD may have an impaired relationship with time. Dr. Russell A. Barkley discusses how ADHD affects your sense of the present, the past, and the future, as well as how that can impact your everyday life. Find out how time blindness in ADHD happens.
How does emotional trauma impact our physical health? Where does trama stem from? Gabor Maté, a physician and trauma expert, explains that there is no such thing as a “normal” person. Instead, most of us are shaped by the emotional trauma we carry. Not every trauma is straightforward either, trauma can also stem from unmet needs. Keep reading to learn about the roots and impacts of trauma, according to Maté.
Which higher functions does ADHD impair? How does ADHD affect your internal dialogue? Weakened inhibitions, a spotty memory, and an impaired sense of time aren’t ADHD’s only symptoms. Dr. Russell A. Barkley says there are several other mental functions that ADHD hinders in adults. Keep reading to learn about ADHD impairments that are challenging for adults.
What role does society play in trauma? What social conditions can harm your physical and mental health? In his book The Myth of Normal, Gabor Maté describes how certain deeply ingrained structures in Western society like racism, misogyny, and capitalism instill and reinforce trauma. These factors don’t just shape our societies—they have tangible, harmful effects on our physical and mental health. Here’s a look at the role that society can play in trauma.
Do you feel like you don’t know the people around you very well? Do you want to know how to understand people better? While learning to know other people is crucial, David Brooks acknowledges that it takes a lot of time and effort to cultivate this skill. But he contends that anybody can learn to know others by mastering three skills. Let’s examine each of these skills in more detail so you can learn how to practice them.
What does it take to stay mentally calm when life throws challenges your way? How can you train your mind to maintain internal peace despite external circumstances? Inner peace can keep you emotionally balanced as you pursue ambitious goals. Through mindfulness, acceptance, and spiritual practices, you can develop the mental strength to handle life’s ups and downs with grace. Keep reading to learn how to achieve inner peace with Ed Mylett’s advice from The Power of One More.
How is the biopsychosocial model of health different from the biomedical model? What holistic healing practices can you try? Physician and trauma expert Gabor Maté says that the biopsychosocial model is much more effective than the traditional biomedical model when it comes to healthcare. The biopsychosocial model takes thoughts, feelings, social interactions, and environment into account when it comes to health. Here’s Maté’s argument for the biopsychosocial model for health and healing.
What happens in your brain when you experience a moment of pure wonder? How can feeling awe actually bring people closer together? Psychology researcher Dacher Keltner discusses the science of awe in his book Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life. He explains that awe-inspiring experiences can reduce self-centered thinking and activate powerful group bonding mechanisms in our brains. Keep reading to discover how moments of wonder can transform both your mind and your relationships with others.
What’s holding you back from reaching your full potential? What kind of attitude do you need to achieve greater success? According to Ed Mylett, mindset makes a big difference. In his book The Power of One More, he offers practical strategies to break free from limiting beliefs and unlock your capabilities. He focuses on four areas: dreaming bigger, managing emotions, asking better questions, and building confidence. Keep reading to discover how you can reprogram your mind for success and push beyond self-imposed limitations.