4 Unconventional Ways to Think Better 🚀

What's up, Next Gen Fam!

At Next Gen HQ, we believe your thinking ability is something that can be deliberately honed. This week, we’re covering unconventional ways to upgrade your thinking.

Let's dive in!

TIPS

Think slow.

When someone asks a thoughtful question – like "what does success mean to you?" – the natural reaction is to respond immediately. This first reaction, however, is usually outdated. It may be an answer you came up with long ago and now use instead of thinking. Fight this urge and don’t be afraid to think in silence before responding. This way, you’ll be more deliberate and less impulsive. 

Procrastinate.

There’s evidence that procrastinating can actually improve creativity. The addition of “I have a dream...” to MLK’s incredible speech is a prime example. But this doesn't mean you should do nothing until the deadline! Instead, draft ideas early and give them time to incubate. In other words, be “quick to start and slow to finish.” That's it!

Journal to learn. 

Ambitious learners consume tons of educational content. We fill our heads with knowledge to feel productive. But sometimes the best way to learn something meaningful is to pause and reflect. Grab a journal and ask: “What is something new I learned today? What benefit could it have?”

Subtract.

When we’re busy we tend to look for things to add that may optimize the day. “If I start checking email while brushing my teeth, that’s two minutes saved!” Instead, ask what you could subtract to save more time. For example, if that new class you joined isn’t your top priority, consider dropping it to save hours instead of just a few minutes. 

QUESTION FOR YOU

What is something you hate not doing? Can you use that activity to help your career?

OPPORTUNITIES

• 🚀 SpaceX, the leading spacecraft manufacturer, is hiring Summer 2023 Business Operations Interns.

• 🦉 Duolingo, the popular language-learning service, is hiring for an Associate Product Manager Intern.

• 🎵TikTok, the most downloaded app of 2021, is hiring for a Live Stream Ops Specialist.

Forwarded this newsletter? Sign up here. 

Thanks for joining us today! ⚡️