Book review: Never Stop Learning
Bradley Staats’ Never Stop Learning is brilliant and a model for others in its genre. Its lessons stand at the forefront of every chapter. They are then ably illustrated. Further rewarding research is available in the footnotes. Nothing extraneous or unnecessary impedes the reader’s ability to grasp the material, learn the lessons, and improve his or her life.
A popular business book came out a few years ago and was as brilliant as this one in its insights. However, the author wrote what was intended for a general audience as if he were writing for his academic peers. My review at that time said, “This book would be twice as good if it were half as long.”
The opposite assessment accompanies Never Stop Learning. I was disappointed the book wasn’t longer. Good writing is like that.
Chapter 4, “Asking Questions,” may be my favorite. Here are some nuggets from this chapter:
- Young children interact with the world 70 to 80 percent of the time with questions.
- The same study that found 70 to 80 percent of kids’ dialogue consisted of questions also found that the range for adults was only 15 to 25 percent.
- One of the most powerful ways we can learn from others is to ask, “What do you think?” and be open to the answer.
- Slow and steady, like the tortoise, can win the race when we ask thoughtful questions to help us learn.
- Often people respect those who are inquisitive, seeing them as both unconventional and socially perceptive.
- We like people who ask questions because we find questioners to be more responsive.
- Inquisitiveness and curiosity, in general, have been associated with better physical and mental health.
- Asking questions of people with different perspectives often generates new paths.
- Asking the simple question “Why might my perspective be wrong?” is likely to generate new insight if you truly engage with it.
Each chapter is full of insight and wisdom you will want to highlight, save for later, chew on and integrate.
Staats’ bottom line is this: Learning is a process that needs constant attention.
Leaders are learners. This is a great tool for sharpening your learning edge. Listen to it. Read the e-book. Mark up a hard copy. By all means, keep it handy and do not forget to buy a few extra copies to give to your fellow learners.
 | David Bowman, (DMin, PCC) is the Executive Director of Tarrant Baptist Association in Fort Worth, Texas. He also serves as a Multiplying Trainer for Future Church Co. Learn More » |
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