Here is Econtalk:
Paul Tough, author of How Children Succeed, talks with EconTalk host Russ Roberts about why children succeed and fail in school and beyond school. He argues that conscientiousness–a mixture of self-control and determination–can be a more important measure of academic and professional success than cognitive ability. He also discusses innovative techniques that schools, individuals, and non-profits are using to inspire young people in distressed neighborhoods. The conversation closes with the implications for public policy in fighting poverty.
And here is a new thinker in my intellectual universe: Bret Victor. I’m somewhat amazed by this guy. He’s one of those people that can make profound things not sound pompous or douchey. Here is a talk by him and here is an interesting piece on learning programming.
His core principle: “creators need an immediate connection to what they’re creating”. Watch the video for some illustrations on what this means to him and ways he’s using this idea to guide his professional life.
A deeper meta-principle, which Bret also touches on, is that you (yes, you) should have a core philosophy/principle that guides your actions. It’s a refreshing way of looking at life.
But, to circle back on the podcast on grit, a guiding principle is great but you still will never achieve anything without a driving force. Inspiration and perspiration.
Not Unreasonable 