Ep258: From Information Overload to Getting Better at Anything by Finding the Right Mentors | with Scott Young

Optimize Yourself

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Scott Young is the bestselling author of the book Ultralearning which we covered extensively in his first appearance on this show. Today we dive deeper into the art of learning as we discuss his new book, Get Better at Anything. In our increasingly connected world, the biggest challenge we're facing isn't lack of information but rather information overload. Scott and I discuss how traditional education prepares us with structured learning, yet often fails to equip us for independent learning as we enter the real world.

In our conversation, Scott and I talk about how AI is changing the way we learn and how we can master the skill of learning in today's digital age. Scott also challenges the notion that self-directed learning is always the best approach and more importantly, reveals what we should do instead.

In an era defined by accessible and abundant information, the ability to distill, process, and learn is even more important than ever. This conversation will get you started and Scott’s new book, Get Better at Anything will help you reignite your passion for learning.

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Here's What You'll Learn:

• Revisiting the art of ultralearning
• What is the internet's double-edged sword effect when it comes to learning
• Why Scott compares today's internet to fast food
• Is there even a point of learning with AI around
• The difference between how artificial intelligence works and standard computers.How the school system prepared us for structured learning but not for the real world
• How to learn when you are overwhelmed by all the options
• KEY TAKEAWAY: You can't get better at anything alone.
• What is the Tetris effect and why it's important to understand if you want to get better at anything
• Why it's difficult to self-learn by just using what's available on the internet
• Why learning from seasoned professionals is not always the best approach
• The advantage of learning from groups
• KEY TAKEAWAY: Learn by asking the right questions
• How imitation can help you learn and create something original
• What feedback really is (it's not only what other people are telling you)
• Why it's difficult to ask for feedback and what you should ask instead

Useful Resources Mentioned:

Ep74: How to Master the Metaskill of 'Ultralearning' | with Scott Young

Ultralearning: Master Hard Skills, Outsmart the Competition, and Accelerate Your Career

Gartner Hype Cycle Research Methodology | Gartner

Ep03: The Science Behind Success and Creative Burnout (And Why You're Approaching Both Mostly Wrong) | with Eric Barker

Top Performer

Adam Grant — The Man Who Does Everything | The Tim Ferriss Show

Scott Young's website

Get Better at Anything book

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Guest Bio:

Scott Young

Scott H. Young is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Ultralearning, a podcast host, computer programmer, and an avid reader. Since 2006, he has published weekly essays to help people learn and think better. His work has been featured in the New York Times, Pocket, and Business Insider, on the BBC, and at TEDx among other outlets. He doesn’t promise to have all the answers, just a place to start. He lives in Vancouver, Canada.

Show Credits:

This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.

The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).