Rousell examines the rich and complex nuances of the science of surprise and shows us how we can use it strategically to enrich lives. Random events transform us. After studying formative events, moments that define us, for over three decades, Michael Rousell discovered that most of them took place during a spark of surprise. This breakthrough launched a fascinating journey from neuroscience to stand-up comedy. Rousell draws on research from a wide variety of brain science disciplines (cognition, motivation, neuroscience, psychology, artificial intelligence, persuasion, evolution, and learning), then examines those who already use surprise strategically (comedians, film directors, entertainers, magicians, and novelists). This examination illustrates the hidden, yet critical features inherent in surprise, while demystifying the complexities. Surprise evolved as a mechanism to instantly change our beliefs. Rousell shows how surprising events produce invisible influence because they open a window to spontaneous belief change with no warning or conscious awareness. You'll see how seemingly minor features of surprise create profound differences and can be used to strategically enrich lives, create positive mindsets, and maximize influence.
Michael A. Rousell, PhD, is a psychologist and associate professor at of education at Southern Oregon University. His most notable work is his 2007 book Sudden Influence: How SpontaneousEvents Shape Our LivesRousell's career spans a broad background in private counseling, public school education, and his current position in higher education.
This book provides an incredibly accurate and practical description of how our brain turns raw information into creative ideas to help us survive and thrive. We learn, we build beliefs, we turn them into memories, and then we go through life on autopilot. Those beliefs turn into biases that hinder our ability to be creative, productive, and happy. How do you get over these neurological roadblocks? Seek out surprises, because in those surprising moments both you and your brain have a golden opportunity to turn limiting beliefs and biases into a life filled with discovery and joy. Through delightful storytelling, the author brilliantly gives the reader new tools for using surprise strategically to create new life-enhancing experiences, avoiding destructive influences. A rare and enjoyably readable book on the neuroscience of personal transformation. Highly, highly recommended for anyone! -- Mark Robert Waldman, executive MBA faculty, Loyola Marymount University (2009-2019) and coauthor of "Born to Believe" and the bestseller "How God Changes Your Brain"
