Tom Vanderbilt: Embracing the Joy of Being a Beginner
Being a beginner allows you to be open to new experiences and helps keep your brain flexible and adaptable.
Imagine picking up a new hobby as an adult—sounds daunting, right? But for Tom Vanderbilt, it was the start of an incredible journey. In this episode of 'All In The Mind', Vanderbilt shares his experiences of diving into new skills like juggling, singing, and even chess, all while navigating the challenges and joys of being a beginner. He chats with host Lynne Malcolm about how these pursuits have kept his mind sharp and adaptable.
Vanderbilt highlights the contrast between learning as a child and as an adult, emphasizing the unique benefits that come with adult learning. From the social harmony found in choir singing to the mental agility required in juggling, each new skill brought its own set of rewards. The episode also touches on the science behind skill acquisition and the importance of maintaining a growth mindset.
With the recent popularity of chess thanks to shows like 'The Queen's Gambit', Vanderbilt's insights are more relevant than ever. Whether you're looking to pick up a new hobby or just curious about how learning new skills can benefit your brain, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and practical advice.