Book Review :: Same as Ever
“To develop foresight, you need to practice hindsight.”
This quote sums up the outcome that the book ‘Same as Ever’, by Morgan Housel, hopes to achieve for the reader.
Having read Morgan’s earlier book ‘The Pschology of Money’ (which I sincerely believe everyone should read, particularly youngsters who have just stepped into their career of earning, saving & investing) and having found it a wonderful read, there was a certain expectation around this book when I started reading it - and it didn’t disappoint.
There are 23 stories - and actually little ones - about things that never change in a changing world.
And things that never change are important because one can put a lot of confidence into knowing how they will shape the future.
Some gems -
💎 We are very good at predicting the future, except for the surprises - which tend to be all that matter.
💎 Probability and uncertainty are just so difficult for us to comprehend. People don’t want accuracy. They want certainty.
💎 The ones who thrive long term are those who understand the real world is a never-ending chain of absurdity, confusion, messy relationships, and imperfect people.
💎 Calm plants the seeds of crazy. Always has, always will.
💎 A good idea on steroids quickly becomes a terrible idea.
💎 Evolution is ruthless and unforgiving - it doesn’t teach by showing you what works but by destroying what doesn’t.
💎 Incentives are the most powerful force in the world and can get people to justify or defend almost anything.
💎 Simplicity is the hallmark of truth - we should know better, but complexity continues to have a morbid attraction.
The book is a breeze and can be read in a few sittings, either sequentially or randomly.
Give it a read, if you haven’t - and then do ponder over the key aspects.