Open-mindedness is linked to better psychological health, increased happiness, and enhanced problem-solving abilities. But it can be tough to be open-minded sometimes in today’s world.

My guest is A. J. Jacobs, a journalist, lecturer, and New York Times Best-Selling author. His newest book, A Year of Living Constitutionally, explores how being open-minded used to be seen as a strength, not a weakness.

Some of the things he talks about are:

• The profound benefits of gratitude
• How humility and flexibility in thinking are key components in individual and societal Growth
• Why spending less time consuming sensational news can lead to better mental health and more productive problem-solving
• How being flexible in your opinions based on new evidence is a strength rather than a weakness
• How trying new things and framing life as a series of puzzles can lead to personal growth and creativity
• How to view disagreements as puzzles so you can have more productive conversations

Links & Resources

AJJacobs.com

The Year of Living Constitutionally

The Election Cake Project

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Amy Morin Therapist, Bestselling Author, Host of the Mentally Stronger Podcast

Amy Morin is a psychotherapist, international bestselling author and the host of the Mentally Stronger podcast. Her books on mental strength, including 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do, have sold more than 1 million copies and been translated into more than 40 languages.

She’s practiced therapy for over 20 years and she’s a sought after speaker whose TEDx talk, The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong, has become one of the most popular talks of all time with more than 22 million views.

Amy lives on a sailboat in the Florida Keys.