Insights from ‘Smarter Faster Better’ by Charles Duhigg

Question 1

What are the two key aspects of choices that generate motivation according to Charles Duhigg?

Answer 1

They give us a sense of control and endow our actions with larger meaning.

Question 2

Fill in the blank: The choices that are most powerful in generating motivation are those that make us feel ______ and give our actions larger ______.

Answer 2

in control, meaning

Question 3

True or False: According to Duhigg, choosing where to work can help increase motivation.

Answer 3

True

Question 4

What are some examples of choices that help create a feeling of control?

Answer 4

Choosing where to work, how long to focus, and what to do while working.

Question 5

Name one way to generate meaning in your work according to Duhigg’s principles.

Answer 5

By seeing the connection between your work and how it benefits others, increases your skill, or leads to a result you’ll be proud of.

Question 6

What is one question you should ask yourself at the start of the day to improve focus?

Answer 6

Given my current schedule, how much progress do I expect to make today?

Question 7

List two predictions you can make at the start of the day to enhance focus.

Answer 7

Expected progress for the day and anticipated distractions.

Question 8

True or False: Making decisions should always be based on seeking absolute certainty before taking action.

Answer 8

False

Question 9

How does thinking probabilistically aid in decision-making?

Answer 9

It helps us question our assumptions, live with uncertainty, and make faster decisions by assessing a range of possible outcomes with probabilities.

Question 10

Fill in the blank: To improve decision-making, consider the ______ and ______ outcomes of a choice.

Answer 10

desirable, undesirable

Question 11

Why should team members be given the authority to make decisions?

Answer 11

It fuels their motivation by providing autonomy, and it encourages innovation by leveraging everyone’s expertise.

Question 12

What mindset shift is required to enhance productivity according to Duhigg?

Answer 12

Recognizing and making choices that others often overlook.

Question 13

True or False: Feeling a sense of control is only important for individuals, not for team dynamics.

Answer 13

False

Question 14

According to Duhigg, what effect does pushing decision-making authority closer to the problem have on teams?

Answer 14

It unlocks innovation and helps team members feel empowered.

Question 15

Fill in the blank: Productive people make choices that most others are content to ______.

Answer 15

ignore