In 'Clearer, Closer, Better', Emily Balcetis uncovers the hidden power of our perceptions and how they shape our reality. Through captivating research and relatable anecdotes, she reveals techniques to enhance focus and alter the way we see obstacles in our lives. Balcetis demonstrates that the shifts in our perspective can lead to remarkable changes in our outcomes. This transformative read invites readers to challenge their assumptions and embrace new possibilities. Are you ready to see the world—and yourself—more clearly?
By Emily Balcetis
Published: 2020
"To see our challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities for clarity and growth, is to embrace a life of purpose and intention."
"Successful people literally see the world differently. Now an award-winning scientist explains how anyone can leverage this "perception" gap to their advantage. When it comes to setting and meeting goals, we are often susceptible to perceptual illusions: We think we are closer or further away depending on our mindset, and we might handicap ourselves by looking only at the big picture or too long at the fine detail. But as award-winning social psychologist Emily Balcetis explains in Clearer, Closer, Better, there is great power in these misperceptions--if we know how to use them to our advantage. Drawing on her own unique research and cutting-edge discoveries in vision science, cognitive research, and motivational psychology, Balcetis gives readers an unprecedented account of the perceptual habits, routines, and practices that successful people use to set and meet their ambitions. Through case studies of entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, and celebrities--as well as her own colorful experience of trying to set and reach a goal--she brings four powerful yet largely untapped visual tactics to life: "--
Emily Balcetis is a distinguished author and psychologist known for her innovative research on perception and motivation. She is the author of the critically acclaimed book 'Perception and Motivation: The Art of Seeing What You Want,' which explores how our desires shape our reality. Balcetis’ writing is characterized by its engaging blend of empirical research, personal anecdotes, and a clear, compelling narrative style. Her work often examines the intersection of psychology and everyday life, providing readers with insights into how they can harness the power of their perceptions to achieve their goals. In addition to her writing, Balcetis is a sought-after speaker and has contributed to various academic journals.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "Fooled by Randomness," Nassim Nicholas Taleb explores the hidden influence of chance in our lives, challenging our perceptions of luck, skill, and success. He argues that many people attribute their achievements to talent rather than the randomness that often underpins them. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and sharp wit, Taleb reveals how cognitive biases distort our understanding of risk and probability. He reminds us that, in the grand theater of life, we are often unwitting actors in a play scripted by randomness. Prepare to rethink your beliefs about fortune and failure as you uncover the profound truths lurking beneath the surface of chance.
In "You Are a Badass," author Jen Sincero delivers a bold and empowering guide to unleashing your inner greatness. With humor and candor, she challenges readers to confront their self-doubt and embrace the power of positive thinking. Through relatable anecdotes and actionable advice, Sincero ignites a fire for self-improvement, urging you to take charge of your life. This book is not just a self-help manual; it's a call to action for anyone ready to break free from mediocrity. Are you ready to step into your badass self and transform your reality?
In "The Success Principles," Jack Canfield unveils powerful, actionable strategies that have propelled countless individuals toward their dreams. Each principle, backed by stories and insights, unlocks the potential for extraordinary achievement in both personal and professional realms. From mastering self-discipline to harnessing the power of positive thinking, Canfield provides a roadmap for transformation. Readers are challenged to break free from limiting beliefs and embrace a mindset of abundance and possibility. Dive into this inspiring guide and discover the keys to unleashing your greatness!
In 'Originals', Adam Grant explores the traits and habits of those who dare to challenge the status quo. He delves into the psychology behind innovation, revealing how creative thinkers cultivate ideas that can reshape industries. The book is packed with research-backed insights and compelling stories of nonconformists who made a difference. Grant's engaging narrative encourages readers to embrace their originality and take calculated risks. Will you be inspired to unleash your inner original and change the world?
In 'The Courage to Be Disliked', renowned philosopher Ichiro Kishimi and psychologist Fumitake Koga present a transformative dialogue between a young man and a wise philosopher. They explore the concept of Alfred Adler's psychology, emphasizing that happiness is a choice and freedom comes from the courage to be oneself. The profound insights challenge conventional beliefs about identity, relationships, and the burden of past traumas. As they delve into the meaning of true self-acceptance, the narrative invites readers to confront their own insecurities and societal expectations. This engaging exchange sparks curiosity and inspires a new outlook on personal growth and fulfillment.
In '12 Rules for Life', psychologist Jordan B. Peterson distills life lessons from psychology, philosophy, and mythology into twelve profound principles for personal growth. Each rule invites readers to confront the chaos of existence and embrace responsibility, guiding them toward meaning and order. Peterson's compelling narratives and incisive insights challenge conventional wisdom, urging self-reflection and accountability. As readers navigate through the complexities of life, they discover how to build a stable foundation for themselves and their communities. This thought-provoking book promises to provoke deep contemplation and inspire transformative change.
In 'Mistakes Were Made (but Not by Me)', Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson explore the psychological mechanisms of self-justification and the often-unconscious ways we avoid admitting our wrongs. With compelling examples from history, psychology, and personal anecdotes, the authors reveal why people, from individuals to large organizations, refuse to accept accountability. This thought-provoking book challenges readers to confront their own biases and the cognitive dissonance that influences decision-making. Will you choose to embrace the discomfort of acknowledging your mistakes? Dive into this enlightening read and discover the profound impact of accountability on personal growth and relationships.
In 'Suffering Is Optional', Cheri Huber challenges the notion that pain is inescapable, offering a transformative perspective on emotional suffering. Through insightful anecdotes and practical exercises, she encourages readers to confront their thought patterns and embrace self-compassion. Huber's approach merges Eastern wisdom with Western psychology, creating a roadmap to emotional freedom. The book invites you to explore the roots of your suffering and empowers you to reclaim your life from negativity. Prepare to uncover the liberating truth that your suffering doesn't have to define you, sparking curiosity about the potential for profound personal change.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

Blake Lively is an accomplished American actress best known for her role as Serena van der Woodsen in the popular television series "Gossip Girl" (2007-2012). While not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, Lively has significantly impacted the entertainment industry with her versatile acting skills in films such as "The Age of Adaline" (2015) and "A Simple Favor" (2018). She has also been an advocate for various social causes, utilizing her platform to raise awareness about child exploitation and the importance of family dynamics. Lively's influence extends beyond acting, as she has ventured into entrepreneurship with her lifestyle brand, Preserve. Her dedication to both her craft and philanthropic efforts has made her a prominent figure in modern pop culture.

Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.

Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.

Andrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.

David Blaine is an American illusionist, endurance artist, and magician, known for his daring and extreme stunts, such as being buried alive, encased in ice, and holding his breath underwater for a record-breaking amount of time. Blaine gained fame for his street magic performances, but his endurance feats have pushed the boundaries of what the human body can achieve. He has been widely recognized for his contributions to magic and illusion, combining elements of mysticism with physical and mental challenges. Blaine’s work has captivated audiences worldwide and has set new standards in the world of magic and performance art.
Showing 8 of 19 related collections
“To see our challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities for clarity and growth, is to embrace a life of purpose and intention.”
Clearer, Closer, Better
By Emily Balcetis
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.