Author: Ben Cohen

From the book: “That’s how creativity works. Success is streaky. Hits are clustered. And this heightened state of ability is the key to understanding the lasting contributions of everyone from scientists to move directors. Their careers are defined by their hot-hand periods. What happens in the hot-hand periods is what we remember.”

Takeaway: Sustained success is rare. What the mystery and science of the “Hot Hand” phenomenon teaches us is our most prolific periods don’t last. They can’t go on forever. At best, we can extend them, but eventually we run out of steam. I’ve experienced this in coaching and seen it happen to runners time and time again. When the magic is gone, it’s time to leave the game, or take a sabbatical and get ready for another hot streak. However, far too many coaches and athletes stick around long after their effectiveness has worn off. It’s hard to know when to exit the game. Few want to leave. And that is what this book helps explain: interpreting the conditions to know when a steak of success is forthcoming and too when you’ve cooled off and its time to retire.

Shop: Get your copy of The Hot Hand here.

Book of the Day: The Hot Hand