Bethesda Growth Mindset Salon

To receive future event updates, register on Luma:
https://luma.com/6qii7007

Let's discuss a podcast by Anders Ericsson, author of the renowned book "Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise". Anders demonstrates that talent is overrated and peak achievement is dependent on a specific type of learning called "deliberate practice", and that your skill in any area is a function of the quantity and quality of “mental representations” you have for that activity. We explore the science of learning and of skill mastery -- how it happens, and how to do it.

Please watch this YouTube video (try 1.25x speed) before joining the discussion:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiBne5EGBQ8

If more than 8 people join the discussion, we will break out into smaller groups. (max 8 people per group)
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1. Mastery requires focused quality over mere repetition. How can we ensure our daily efforts are intentional enough to foster genuine growth?
2. Effective mentors provide the roadmap for stretching our abilities. How might we better identify the guides who can point out our hidden obstacles?
3. Immediate feedback loops are essential for identifying and correcting technical errors. How can we build systems that provide the rapid insights necessary for our collective improvement?
4. Peak performance often requires unlearning habits that limit our ultimate potential. What fundamental methods could we refine to ensure our foundations support world-class excellence?
5. Growth occurs when we consistently set goals just beyond our current comfort zones. How do we determine the ideal balance between manageable challenge and productive discomfort?
6. Elite performance is sustained through intense concentration followed by restorative rest. How can we better value recovery as a vital component of our highest achievements?

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To provide an enjoyable experience for fellow participants, here are three ground rules during discussion events:

1. Step up and step back. (If you feel that you’ve been talking too much, step back to listen more. If you feel that you’ve been relatively quiet, step up to share your perspective or ask a question)
2. Listen to understand, not to respond.
3. Be open-minded and value differences.

To receive future event updates, register on Luma:
https://luma.com/tv3fhasq

Have you had your daily dose of fun? It's not just enjoyable, it's also essential for your health and happiness, says science journalist Catherine Price. She proposes a new definition of fun -- what she calls "true fun" -- and shares easy, evidence-backed ways to weave playfulness, flow and connection into your everyday life.

Please watch this YouTube video before joining the discussion:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMBJrvEwv8s

If more than 10 people join the discussion, we will break out into smaller groups. (max 10 people per group)
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1. True fun is a visceral feeling of being illuminated from within rather than just a leisure activity. How can we better distinguish between activities that merely pass the time and those that truly make us feel radiant?
2. Playfulness involves a lighthearted attitude of doing things for their own sake without worrying about the outcome. How might our community change if we collectively lowered our guards and let go of the need for perfection?
3. Most peak fun memories involve a shared experience that helps us feel united with others. In a polarized world, how can the pursuit of fun serve as a bridge to connect us as human beings?
4. Fun requires a state of flow where we are so engaged that we lose track of time. What environments can we create together that naturally encourage us to be fully present and focused on the moment?
5. Prioritizing fun acts as a legitimate health intervention by reducing stress and promoting social bonding. How would we shift our schedules if we viewed joyful moments as essential to our physical and mental well-being?
6. Constant digital distractions interrupt our flow and prevent us from forming real-world connections. What boundaries can we set with our devices to ensure we remain available for spontaneous moments of joy?

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To provide an enjoyable experience for fellow participants, here are three ground rules during discussion events:

1. Step up and step back. (If you feel that you’ve been talking too much, step back to listen more. If you feel that you’ve been relatively quiet, step up to share your perspective or ask a question)
2. Listen to understand, not to respond.
3. Be open-minded and value differences.