Become an Elite Mental Athlete
Commit to Building Your Brain and Improving Your Mental Game
“Mental athletics” isn’t a concept many business managers actively consider, but if David Silverstein’s guidebook is any indication, they should start exercising their brains. The premise of this short yet entertaining book is “Why don’t the best of the best thinkers in the world work just as hard at improving their mental abilities [as world class athletes]?”
Silverstein begins with an overview of why business professionals need brain training, suggesting that “You can train yourself to stretch your memory and tighten your attention.” He then identifies areas that impact the health of the brain; not surprisingly, they include nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress.
The second half of the book includes some valuable techniques and tips for becoming an “elite mental athlete.” Silverstein discusses such intriguing concepts as mental stamina, pattern recognition and expertise, and decision making and “cognitive traps.” The author also includes mention of several brain training apps, noting that the “brain fitness” industry is experiencing significant growth. Silverstein wraps up the book with a handy summary of takeaways from each chapter.
Silverstein’s easy and informal style, along with his penchant for keeping chapters short and sweet, makes it easy to digest the content in one sitting. Occasional humorous, cartoon-style illustrations supplementing the text keep the tone light.
Many of the author’s recommendations are not difficult to follow; others require a more dedicated effort. Managers looking for ways to smarten up on the job (and, in general) will find practical advice in Become an Elite Mental Athlete.
Reviewed by
Barry Silverstein
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
