Summary
Daniel McGinn is a senior editor at Harvard Business Review, where he edits the IdeaWatch and How I Did It sections, manages the magazine’s annual Best Performing CEOs in the World ranking, and edits feature articles on topics including negotiation, sales, and entrepreneurship.
In this episode, we discuss his newest book Psyched Up.
Dan shares the science behind mental preparation that can help anyone succeed.Whether you’re closing the sale. Asking for a raise. Nailing the big presentation. Of the 2,000 hours you work every year, your success or failure is determined in the couple of dozen crucial hours when you need to bring your absolute best. Will you?
Key Take Outs
- Dan discusses the CEO best performance rankings. Hows they are selected and some commonalities among the best performers.
- House Lust – the reasons behind the behaviors that drove people towards America’s obsession for the 2008 house boom and bust.
- The premise behind his new book – Psyched Up: How the Science of Mental Preparation Can Help You Succeed. Including the science, techniques, and practices behind improving your energy, reducing anxiety and raising confidence.
Quick round questions
Do you have any routines and rituals that you believe contribute to your success?
Reflecting on my greatest hits before starting (As it relates to his writing).
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
To seek more balance in life.
What is the meaning of success?
Health, happiness, and well-being.
What is your number one productivity advice?
Have a holistic approach to your productivity. It’s not all about quantity.
What advice would you give someone that needing/wanting to make a change?
Change is difficult, so be mindful of this and try to develop good routines and habits.
Favourite Food
Pizza
Favourite Leisure Activity
Gold
Favourite Book
The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How to Make Your Life Better (and Other People’s Lives Better, Too)
by Gretchen RubinPsyched Up: How the Science of Mental Preparation Can Help You Succeed by
Dan McGinnFavourite Quote
“Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.”
Do we all have a why?
Yes, but not sure if everyone has found it but research shows that it does benefit those who find it creates a more meaningful life.
What does living with passion and purpose mean?
Actively pursuing your why and passion relates to the amount of energy you can put towards your pursuit.
Connect with Daniel
Visit the website Psyched Up here.
Further Reading and Resources
TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading
Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y
Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.
The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.
Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain
Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate
The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.
The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.
Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.
Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.
Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.
Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.”
Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.
The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.
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