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Awkward

The Science of Why We're Socially Awkward and Why That's Awesome

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Awkward

By: Ty Tashiro
Narrated by: George Newbern
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About this listen

In the vein of Quiet and The Geeks Shall Inherit the Earth comes this illuminating look at what it means to be awkward - and how the same traits that make us socially anxious and cause embarrassing faux pas also provide the seeds for extraordinary success.

As humans, we all need to belong. While modern social life can make even the best of us feel gawky, for roughly one in five of us, navigating its challenges is consistently overwhelming - an ongoing maze without an exit. Often unable to grasp social cues or master the skills and grace necessary for smooth interaction, we feel out of sync with those around us. Though individuals may recognize their awkward disposition, they rarely understand why they are like this - which makes it hard for them to know how to adjust their behavior.

Psychologist and interpersonal relationship expert Ty Tashiro knows what it's like to be awkward. Growing up, he could do math in his head and memorize the earned run averages of every National League starting pitcher. But he couldn't pour liquids without spilling and habitually forgot to bring his glove to Little League games. In Awkward, he unpacks decades of research into human intelligence, neuroscience, personality, and sociology to help us better understand this widely shared trait. He explores its nature vs. nurture origins, considers how the awkward view the world, and delivers a welcome counterintuitive message: the same characteristics that make people socially clumsy can be harnessed to produce remarkable achievements.

Interweaving the latest research with personal tales and real world examples, Awkward offers reassurance and provides valuable insights into how we can embrace our personal quirks and unique talents to harness our awesome potential - and more comfortably navigate our complex world.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2017 Ty Tashiro (P)2017 HarperCollins Publishers
Biological Sciences Psychology Relationships Inspiring Young Adult Mental Health

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Interesting but it does go downhill toward the end

The book starts off pretty good but seems to run out of steam towards the end.

Still I enjoyed it, but some lesser motivated people may give up after half way.

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Some good insight but gets distracted

I enjoyed the first part of the book but a few chapters in the author goes off on a tangent with social commentary and option on various topics and I'm left thinking - what am I listening to?
There is some valuable insight about social awkwardness but I don't care for the rest

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worth it

I found this book both validating and exciting. Some parts not as much as others, but overall I found it enjoyable to listen to and I think many people would benefit from listening to this book.

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