Top articles and notes of 2021
At the end of the year, it’s fun to look back and see how different pieces of content performed. For the year 2021, here are the top five most popular articles and notes based on unique page views.
Top five articles of 2021
My two favorite math equations. These equations explain the power of small (one percent) daily changes over the course of a full year (365 days). If we make something one percent better every day for a year, we make it 37 times better. And if we make something one percent worse every day for a year, we make it 97% worse.
How non-Mormons and Mormons can build stronger relationships. I am not “Mormon”. But I am married to a Mormon. I also live in Utah. In Utah, Mormons make up 63% of the state population; a majority. If you are a non-Mormon in Utah, it can be difficult to build new relationships with Mormons. This makes social and business life hard: relationships are the foundation of a happy life and a winning business. In order for Utah to maximize its opportunity, non-Mormons and Mormons need to build real relationships and work together.
The difference between working hard and competing. Most people work hard, but few people compete. Maybe this is why so many hard-working people fail to reach their goals.
Intentional reflection is a powerful learning tool. Confucius, a Chinese philosopher during the 5th and 6th centuries BC, said: By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third, by experience, which is the bitterest. Confucius wrote this more than two thousand years ago. I read this quote almost every Sunday morning in an attempt to extract its full meaning.
Defining trust so we can increase it. Experts believe trust is the core foundation of strong interpersonal relationships, teams, and organizations. There are many loose definitions of trust. But if we are going to increase trust, we need a precise definition to work from. After reviewing hundreds of different explanations of trust, I propose we use this definition.
Top five notes of 2021
Make Your Bed. “Make Your Bed“ is the name of both a book and a speech by Admiral William H. McRaven. The book is based on the speech of the same name, which was given at the University-wide Commencement at The University of Texas at Austin on May 17, 2014. I reviewed the speech transcript recently and wanted more. So, I read the book too. Here are my combined notes and takeaways from both the book and the speech, Make Your Bed.
Inside the mind of a master procrastinator. COVID-19 wiped out many of my regular routines. As a result, I’ve been procrastinating more than usual. I found this TED talk and it helped me understand what’s happening inside my brain when I procrastinate. If you’re procrastinating right now, these notes might be helpful to you too.
The Infinite Game. I first discovered Simon Sinek’s concept of The Infinite Game via a video in December 2019. The points made in The Infinite Game help explain many of the challenges I faced as the CEO of my last company. Ironically, prior to discovering this book and concept, my friend Tyler and I started a podcast with a focus on a similar theme: building companies that are meant to last. It’s literally called Startup to Last. This book has provided me with some new words (and justification) to help explain why building a company to last is so important to me. I hope these notes help you explore the possibility of adopting an infinite mindset as well.
How to Win Friends and Influence People. Dale Carnegie’s book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, has been recommended to me more times than I can count. It’s been on my reading list for years. I think I may have bought this book on three or four separate occasions. Who knows where those other copies are? I’m so glad I finally sat down and read this book. As you will see from my notes, it is packed with information and anecdotes. This book walks through four unique sets of principles you should follow when dealing with people in different situations.
Poor Richard's Almanac. Over the years, I’ve seen Benjamin Franklin quoted countless times. And nearly every time, his quote made me pause, think, and reflect. Poor Richard’s Almanack is a collection of Franklin's maxims, rules, and aphorisms. I enjoyed reading them and I’ve included my favorite “wit and wisdom” in these notes.
Notes
[1] For the top articles and notes of 2020, click here.
Have thoughts on this topic? I'd love to hear from you! I'm @RickLindquist on Twitter.