F.R.I.E.N.D.S Intelligence

Intelligence Mixer - Sleep and Information Processing So far, we’ve explored how information flows in this chapter. From attention to priming, bias, and learning, we examined how information moves from perception to understanding. We now turn to consider how other pillars of intelligence—sleep, exercise, and nutrition—can support information processing. Although later chapters (chapter 7 for sleep, chapter 6 for exercise, and chapter 5 for nutrition) will discuss these pillars more fully, here we focus on how they intersect with information processing. Sleep can enhance information processing in at least three ways: it improves memory, decision making, and insight formation. We’ve all experienced or seen moments like, “after a good sleep, I can recall what I couldn’t yesterday,” “I made a good decision that morning after a good sleep,” and “an answer to this tricky problem suddenly popped into my head when I woke up.” Let us examine these phenomena more closely at the physiological lev...

How to Learn Anything To deepen our understanding of information intelligence, let’s explore how knowledge or skills become part of ourselves—learning. There is a strong connection between mastering a skill and happiness. Whether for work or a hobby, if someone can effectively learn the necessary skills and knowledge, they are more likely to feel a sense of achievement and earn recognition both professionally and socially. We want to be good at things, and the key to becoming proficient is learning. As a middle-aged man, I recall many people teaching me specific skills—math, drawing, piano, violin, swimming, riding a bicycle, chess, solving a Rubik’s Cube, playing basketball…. However, I cannot recall anyone teaching me how to learn in general. Learning about learning itself is absent in my life. If this resonates with you, I hope the five steps of learning outlined below will provide insight. 1. Understand the Depth. To learn anything, the first step is to grasp the subject’s depth. ...

The Gingery Sunglasses My optometrist is a lovely person with a warm smile, a professional manner, and a good sense of humour. I especially like that she always cleans my glasses spotless after each eye check. However, she’s not the type to pay close attention to details. For example, a few months ago, when I ordered a pair of clear-lens sunglasses, I was surprised to find a pair of coloured lenses waiting for me at the pick-up appointment. “Well, it is the exact same prescription. I am very sorry that I placed the wrong order. We can order the correct one right now, and it should arrive in 2 weeks.” My optometrist apologised a bit awkwardly. “It looked alright,” I looked into the mirror with the gingery lens on. “I only use it when driving, so a coloured lens shouldn’t bother me much. I can take it.” “That is very nice of you. If you do feel the need to change it to clear lenses, let me know and I will replace it for you,” My optometrist replied with a slight relief. So that is how I ...