Weekly Pulse by William Meller | Week 43, 2023

Weekly Pulse by William Meller | Week 43, 2023
Weekly Pulse is content curation and highlights from readings, books, podcasts, insights, ramblings, and other interesting things I discovered during the week. 

So, let's go with some discoveries from the week!

#1 - How Asking Multiple People for Advice Can Backfire
#2 - How to Stay Focused If You’re Assigned to Multiple Projects at Once
#3 - Is ‘Flow’ the Secret to Painless Productivity?
#4 - Navigating the 'Yes' Dilemma: The Science of Saying 'No' at Work
#5 - Book Notes #95: How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie


How Asking Multiple People for Advice Can Backfire

Source: Harvard Business Review
Author: Hayley Blunden, Jennifer M. Logg, Alison Wood Brooks, Leslie K. John, and Francesca Gino
Year: 2019

Summary: Asking for advice often involves seeking opinions from several sources, but this research suggests that it could backfire. Advisors generally prefer to be the only source of advice to maintain their status. When they detect that an advice seeker is consulting multiple advisors, they deem the seeker less competent and their advice less likely to be followed. 

The study also found that advice seekers often aren't clear that their intent is just to obtain information rather than expecting the advisors to offer direction. A lack of transparency about goals can lead to misunderstandings in future interactions.



How to Stay Focused If You’re Assigned to Multiple Projects at Once

Source: Harvard Business Review
Author: Heidi K. Gardner and Mark Mortensen
Year: 2017

Summary: Most of us are juggling multiple teams at once. In theory, this system of “multiteaming” offers a number of upsides: You can deploy your expertise exactly where and when it’s most needed, share your knowledge across groups, and switch projects during lull times. 

The reality, though, is a lot more complicated. You’ve probably experienced some challenges of multiteaming — some of the most common include how to manage your time, stress, and development. To better manage your time, try prioritizing and sequencing your work. To better manage your stress, try setting and communicating expectations. And to better optimize your development, try blocking out time for actual learning.



Is ‘Flow’ the Secret to Painless Productivity?

Source: Fast Company
Author: Greg Smith
Year: 2023

Summary: "Flow" is a state of intense focus and absorption in an intrinsically rewarding activity that can enhance creativity, productivity, and mental health. It can be created deliberately by finding a task that is challenging but not overwhelming and avoiding distractions. 

The epidemic of burnout can be addressed sustainably by cultivating a flow state and making work satisfying again. Leaders can help reduce "never quite right" bias by using the simple and effective "flip it to test it" method to thwart sexist criticisms, and by providing constructive, objective, and career-enhancing feedback to women.


Navigating the 'Yes' Dilemma: The Science of Saying 'No' at Work

Source:  Article of the Week

In the fast-paced and collaborative world of work, saying "no" can often feel like an uphill battle. 

Whether it's declining additional tasks, refusing to take on yet another project, or simply setting boundaries, uttering that two-letter word can be surprisingly difficult. 

Many of us find ourselves grappling with the internal struggle to please colleagues, superiors, and the unspoken expectations of the workplace.



Book Notes #95: How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie

Source:  Book Notes of the Week

In a world filled with ever-increasing stress and anxiety, Dale Carnegie's "How to Stop Worrying and Start Living" stands as a beacon of hope and practical guidance. 

This timeless self-help classic is a treasure trove of insights and strategies aimed at helping individuals lead more fulfilling and worry-free lives. 

The book presents valuable insights on conquering worry, living in the present, and boosting self-confidence. It emphasizes the importance of effective communication and stress management. 

Readers are encouraged to take proactive steps to address their concerns, focus on the present moment, and nurture self-belief. 

With actionable advice and time-tested strategies, this book equips individuals to master their mindset, enhance relationships, and improve their overall well-being, making it an indispensable resource for those seeking a more joyful and balanced life.




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