Embracing the Beginner's Mind: Tom Vanderbilt on Lifelong Learning
If there's something that just calls out to you whether it even seems trivial or strange, just go with that, because you know enthusiasm is going to go a long way in terms of showing up for practice or putting in the practice or benefiting from it.
Picture this: a dad who’s never played chess suddenly finds himself in a showdown with his four-year-old daughter. That’s exactly what happened to journalist Tom Vanderbilt. His daughter’s interest in chess sparked a journey that led him to explore a variety of new skills, from surfing to singing. In this episode of 'All In The Mind', Vanderbilt shares his experiences and insights into the world of lifelong learning.
He delves into how stepping into the shoes of a beginner can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Through his story, you'll see how learning new things isn't just for kids—adults can benefit immensely too. Vanderbilt breaks down the science behind skill acquisition and offers practical advice on overcoming the hurdles we all face when trying something new. If you've ever felt too old to pick up a new hobby or skill, this episode will make you think twice.
It’s a reminder that enthusiasm and a willingness to learn can transform your life at any age.