The Tucker Carlson origin story

Reddit's r/NoSleep is a special 'horror bubble' for internet writers that has born book deals and even a Steven Spielberg adaptation

MeetupEvent platform Meetup's team having a virtual happy hour.<ul class="summary-list"><li>In-person networking events have long been a major avenue for entrepreneurs and professionals looking to connect with peers and prospects. </li><li>With coronavirus shutting down physical interactions, many of those events are being held virtually only or have modified programming. </li><li>Entrepreneurs across industries and locations are devising virtual alternatives to serve clients and nurture their networks - from an IGTV series and a digital-only membership community to personalized audio messages for clients.</li><li>These entrepreneurs and virtual engagement experts said that social distancing does not mean social isolation - now is the time to pivot, show clients you care, and build a foundation that will define your "post-pandemic come-up." </li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/prime">Click here for more BI Prime stories.</a></li></ul>Jeff Lindor, founder and CEO of <a href="https://gentlemensfactory.com/">The Gentlemen's Factory</a>, was at an influencer dinner with other CEOs, venture capitalists, and founders in Brooklyn when the news broke that the NBA had suspended its season. Each guest looked at their phone, then at each other.Jeff LindorJeff Lindor."That's when we said, 'Wow, this is serious. It's time to start planning for our businesses," said Lindor, whose networking organization caters to men of color. "I went home and drafted a survey asking members what they'd like to see in a digital platform."Two weeks later, <a href="https://gentlemensfactory.com/">GF Digital</a> went live, offering a host of timely virtual workshops to its existing client base and a digital-only membership tier to attract new members."What coronavirus shows is that businesses need to move very quickly," Lindor said. "Before, we were bound to physical locations. But with digital membership comes an opportunity to scale. Now, this is an opportunity for us to connect with the world."In-person networking opportunities - including conferences, workshops, coworking and learning spaces, and even cocktail hours - have long been a major avenue for entrepreneurs to meet clients and contacts. Now that they can't meet physically, many entrepreneurs are finding, testing, or amplifying virtual alternatives to network. And, like Lindor, they are doing it swiftly.Chloe StewartChloe Stewart.<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/">Eventbrite</a> told Business Insider it saw 250% growth in online events between March 1 and March 26. In the entrepreneurs, small business, and professional category, the increase was 3% from February to March. And since March 10, searches for online events on the platform increased tenfold."The surge in search for online events shows there's this massive hunger to connect," said Chloe Stewart, Eventbrite's vice president of sales. "Human beings are inherently social creatures. Now, it's so crucial to stay connected."Virtual engagement experts say the key to connecting well is to meet your connections where they are - both in the media channels they use and emotionally. Sree SreenivasanSree Sreenivasan."It's physical distancing we want, not social distancing," said Sree Sreenivasan, Marshall Loeb Visiting Professor of Digital Innovation at Stony Brook University, whose recent <a href="https://smwknd.com/">Social Media Weekend #SMWKND</a> day-long summit was online. "Customers want to be connected to, but they want you to do it in deep, serious, meaningful ways, and in ways that will be compelling."Melissa LlarenaMelissa Llarena.Added Melissa Llarena, founder and CEO of career coaching company <a href="https://www.melissallarena.com/">Career Outcomes Matter</a>, "Right now we are all going through this transition to online together, so it's expected that you'll network online. Use this truth wisely by bringing 20% more value to calls [and] still bringing your personality, with a dose of compassion, given the moment in history."Here are several tips and tools for making the most of virtual opportunities to network.<h2>1. Use the tools and resources you already know well</h2>Whether it's Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype, WebEx, or Facebook Live, the best tool for virtual meetings is the one you or your customers already know, the experts said.On Eventbrite, Stewart said Zoom is the most commonly used, due partly to the software being integrated into the platform. On event platform <a href="https://www.meetup.com/">Meetup</a>, according to Emma Schwartz, vice president of product, more than half of organizers use Zoom, followed by YouTube and Google. MeetupEmma Schwartz."For organizers, the best platform to use is the one they're able to get up to speed on quickly," said Schwartz. "That answer may be different for different people, and may change as they grow in their experience of hosting online."Programming also drives the choice of tool. If a speaker is showing slides or plans to have participants ask questions, GoToWebinar, Vimeo Live, and Zoom's premium option work, Schwartz said. For live-streaming, she recommends YouTube Live.Sreenivasan and his team understood these nuances when they moved their summit online. When New York announced broad closures, the team had only 10 days to shift it online and they considered numerous tools, event executive producer Neil Parekh said. Neil ParekhNeil Parekh.In the end, the team went with <a href="https://streamyard.com/">Streamyard</a>, the livestream tool they had been using for Sreenivasan's weekly "Sunday #NYTReadalong" and daily "#SreeCOVID19Call" broadcasts on social media. The tool allowed presenters to stream from their homes, displayed slides, and featured select attendee comments in a ticker scroll. The team even managed a fireside chat featuring Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, authors of "<a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/588999/tightrope-by-nicholas-d-kristof-and-sheryl-wudunn/">Tightrope: Americans Reaching for Hope</a>." "If you have to turn something around quickly and you have someone who has experience with a particular platform, you should lean into that," Parekh said.<h2>2. Go back to event planning and management basics</h2>Moving an event online requires the same core event planning steps to ensure a smooth experience, Parekh said. You still have to prep your speakers, show them how to use the tools, and confirm the content they will share, he said. Having a designated colleague to work through technical issues is also vital, except online that person may be monitoring chat rooms and solving logistical issues such as internet connectivity.Corey HesterMelissa Llarena and Corey Hester connecting online.As with live events, engagement online is key to a satisfying participant experience. Attendee polls, curated questions, and asking for questions ahead of time are all standard engagement practices."It might be a little bit tricky to build a relationship with someone when you're not physically around them," Stewart said. "But using something like Zoom, where you can break out into individual or small groups and strategize, and then come back together, that allows you to really get to know the other [attendees]."Also, be sure to test and have a backup plan in case the technology fails, Stewart said. Practice runs, testing audio and video, and having a wired connection if wireless fails are all examples of basics to cover for virtual events.<h2>3. Give people good, compelling content</h2>For Lindor, what mattered most was giving his 200 members what they would need during this crisis. Their survey responses helped him prioritize content for the digital platform. At launch, workshops such as products and services the government needs urgently, recession-proofing a business, and parenting advice were among the offerings."Entrepreneurship is all about solving a problem," Lindor said. "[With this offering], our members can continue being the best versions of themselves."Daniel TomeiDavid Fisher.David J.P. Fisher, an <a href="https://davidjpfisher.com/about/">author</a> of several books on sales and networking books, including the "Networking in the 21st Century" series, offered one other way to get ideas for meaningful content: review your LinkedIn feed and customer emails."You can go back to emails that you've gotten recently from customers or prospects with questions," Fisher said. "Take those topics and put together a webinar or something similar that maps out strategies and tactics for your customers."<h2>4. Get creative with distribution</h2>Coronavirus-titled emails are flooding mailboxes everywhere, turning well-intentioned messages into noise. To break through the clutter and, more importantly, foster community requires new ways of delivering and messaging.Luigi EstuyeVictoria Jenn Rodriguez."This time has caused everybody to be innovative and disrupt the space," said entrepreneur Victoria Jenn Rodriguez. "The main objective is cultivation of your community. How can you provide tools and resources to people so they can level up and be prepared for their post-pandemic come-up?"Coming off the signature event for her nonprofit <a href="https://www.thefemalecollaborative.com/">The Female Collaborative</a> in early March, Rodriguez had planned several in-person touchpoints with participants. To sustain these connections now, she is launching an <a href="https://about.instagram.com">Instagram TV</a> series. In each 15- to 20-minute IGTV episode, a guest will share insights, lessons, or advice live directly from their home. Each story will then be saved for viewers to watch anytime."People are looking for [us] to be more relaxed, more genuine, and authentic in our storytelling," Rodriguez said. "It's forcing us to lead in a different way."Nikki NashNikki Nash.Nikki Nash, a <a href="http://nikkinash.co">media company</a> CEO and Hay House author and business coach, has continued to connect through her podcast, webinars, private Facebook group, social following, and email list. Recently, she has increased her use of personalized video messages, through tools like <a href="https://www.bonjoro.com/">Bonjoro</a> and <a href="https://bombbomb.com/">Bomb Bomb</a>, to make up for the lack of in-person time."If you start doing these things now that you're home, try not to stop them when your business goes back to normal," Nash added. "Do it at a consistency where you can keep them going."<h2>5. Present the best version of you</h2>In his recently-released "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UAzHOiOaN8">Virtual Presentation Crash Course</a>," Rob Biesenbach, a communication expert and author, said his number one rule is: "Everything at an 11." That means doing everything with more energy, volume, excitement, engagement, interaction, and visuals to keep your audience engaged.Rob BiesenbachRob Biesenbach."I mean your '11' - not someone else's or your impression of what others might do," Biesenbach told Business Insider. "I mean the very best version of yourself. So it's authentic and it feels comfortable."Getting there may take "working the extremes," added Biesenbach. In networking scenarios, for example, if you're shy, behave like a quintessential used car salesman, he said. If you're a big data person, practice your pitch without using numbers. "Working the extremes will help you find the sweet spot somewhere between that extreme and your usual comfort zone," Biesenbach said.To get that real you across, Llarena suggested that you "pretend they are truly sitting next to you," she said. "It's a mind trick, but important to really believe to get more comfortable using online networking methods."Before turning on your video, be sure you and your environment look and sound good."Test your audio and your voice," Llarena said. "You may sound tired if you just woke up and your audio could be set to the wrong settings."Biesenbach suggested following a few digital housekeeping rules. Among them, tidying your desktop and physical space, using a good quality mic for audio or webcam, elevating your screen to frame your face, and sitting with the light source in front of you.Ranstad RiseSmartKimberly Schneiderman.Lastly, look professional even while at home, said Kimberly Schneiderman, senior practice development manager with <a href="https://www.randstadrisesmart.com/">Randstad RiseSmart</a> career transition firm. This ranges from simple acts like combing your hair to freshening up your lip gloss to sitting up instead of reclining to wearing appropriate clothing. Tool features like Zoom's <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/zoom-video-conferencing-filter-touch-up-work-from-home-coronavirus-2020-3">"touch up my appearance"</a> can also help. Schneiderman added that while everyone understands there are distractions out of your control, try to eliminate those you can. She said, "It's a business call, so treat it as such."<h2>6. Be very active on social media</h2>Do your research before attending a virtual networking event."If you can get access to the attendees list in advance, scan it and identify a handful of people you think would be valuable to connect with," Biesenbach said. "Check out their online profiles, website and anything else you can find to identify areas of mutual interest." Not having buffet lines to strike up conversations in person should not deter you from connecting. Instead, use various forums to find people."Serendipity is proactive online," Llarena said. "You see an article, a social media post, a comment on someone else's social media post, and then you serendipitously reach out to introduce yourself on LinkedIn. [Send] a tailored note and schedule a call based on you adding value in some way."Finally, if you haven't already, connect with offline connections on LinkedIn immediately, numerous coaches said."If the relationship began offline, then you should immediately or now connect via LinkedIn by sending a tailored invite connection that specifically mentions how you met," Llarena said. "Perhaps [include] something you appreciated from the conversation or about them. Be crisp and specific."Fisher suggested posting on LinkedIn three to five times each week. He also recommended sending an email to prospects, customers, and connections outlining what's going on in your business and how they can continue to engage with you.For Sophia Z. Chow, a senior brand manager, being very active on LinkedIn helped her land her current role. Updating her profile and commenting regularly got her on people's radar, including her future boss'. Sophia Z. ChowSophia Z. Chow."He approached me and asked me for coffee," Chow said. No stranger to connecting virtually, Chow had been using social platforms for years to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues across the globe. As a job seeker, she let those connections know she was looking and sent notes to companies that interested her. <h2>7. Ask thoughtful questions and actively participate in discussions</h2>Schneiderman suggested going into virtual meetups with questions about the virus' impact on specific industries, locations, or businesses, and to ask attendees how they're coping. Then, shift to opportunities that might exist by asking for ideas to meet those challenges."Networking is about building relationships," Schneiderman said. "We build relationships by getting to know people, by being curious about others, their personal lives to an extent, as well as their professional lives."Biesenbach said in group conversation, choose a few key moments to contribute. "Stay on message, deliver it with passion, and position yourself in a way that will appeal to those people you're looking to meet and connect with," he said.<h2>8. Follow up every interaction with a personalized message</h2>Last but not least, follow up with connections made online just as you would with people you meet offline."As [a] follow-up, find some way you can help that person based on issues you two discussed - a link, a resource, or an offer to connect them with someone you think they should meet," Biesenbach said. Llarena added that what could be even more helpful is sending the person a recording of the conversation or event for reference as a "virtual leave behind" that keeps the door open for future interaction.Schneiderman offers the following template.Hi [first name],It was a pleasure to meet you virtually during [online event name]. It was great learning about your passion for [add detail] and your successful career path. Thank you for taking the time to share your insight and experiences.As I mentioned, I am trying to break into the industry and would like to ask you 2-3 questions about your experience working at [company]. Would you be free to chat over coffee this week? I know you're busy, so I will make myself available whenever you have 15-20 minutes.If you prefer, I would be happy to send my questions via email. Otherwise feel free to call me on my cell at [number].In our conversation, you mentioned your interest in [additional detail]. Attached is a great [article or resource related to that detail] that speaks to the future of this field. I thought you would find it interesting.I really appreciate your willingness to help.Sincerely,[Your name]Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email <a href="mailto:covidtips@businessinsider.com">covidtips@businessinsider.com</a> and tell us your story.And get the latest <a href="/coronavirus-business-impact">coronavirus analysis and research</a> from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is impacting businesses. <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-flight-attendants-are-trained-for-emergency-situations-2020-3">How flight attendants are trained</a></h3>

How to create your own networking opportunities online and connect with key players, according to entrepreneurs, coaches, and executives who've done it

Donald Trump broke the conservative media

In a recent Quora thread, <a href="http://www.quora.com/What-would-you-do-to-be-a-little-smarter-every-single-day">"What would you do to be a little smarter every single day?"</a>, readers shared their advice on good habits you can establish.Here are some simple actions that could help you become a smarter person.1. Come up with 10 ideas every day. Think about how to reduce poverty, how to solve a daily problem you have, interesting movie ideas, or anything. It doesn't matter what subject your ideas fall into, as long as you're working your brain and your idea muscles. Your list might even lead to a new startup idea or writing subject. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>2. Read the newspaper. It will help you become more aware of the important things happening around the word. You'll learn to form your own opinions and connect the dots between seemingly unrelated things. You'll also have a lot more to talk about at parties or with friends. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>3. Play devil's advocate. Take something you recently learned and generate a unique opinion on it that wouldn't immediately come to mind. Try to support it with evidence, and be open to the idea that new evidence will change your opinion. Repeat this every day, and you'll become much better at thinking outside the box.If you're feeling stuck, try reading and critically evaluating the editorial section of papers. They will help you understand how other people form arguments and express their opinions. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcwvQ">Peter DePaulo</a>4. Read a chapter in a fiction or non-fiction book. Aim to read a book a week. You can always find pockets of time to read, whether on your daily commute or while you're waiting in line. Goodreads is a great way to keep track of everything you read and to also find a community of other readers.Fiction books are great for understanding characters and getting absorbed into another perspective, while non-fiction books are great for introducing you to new topics, from politics to psychology. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>5. Instead of watching TV, watch educational videos. Sometimes, it's more fun to watch things about a subject you love than to read about it, and you can learn a lot from other people's experiences.You can find fun, educational videos on Khan Academy or watch TED talks. You can also find good ones on Youtube's channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/destinws2">SmarterEveryDay.</a> In videos, the information is often presented in a digestible, memorable way, so you can be assured they'll stick. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcHM3">Hendrik Sleeckx</a>6. Subscribe to feeds of interesting information. Follow interesting voices on Facebook and Twitter, so you'll always learn something new when you look at your newsfeed or dashboard. For example, if you want to keep up with the latest news in science and technology, subscribe to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=1&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=0CB8QFjAA&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FIFeakingLoveScience&amp;ei=H2zFU4D2Msq-sQTij4KoCg&amp;usg=AFQjCNFPGYC-s8ItfHmSqpx5H1nRHexajA&amp;bvm=bv.70810081,d.cWc">"I Fucking Love Science"</a> page on Facebook. You can also follow email newsletters, such as Cal Newport's <a href="http://calnewport.com/blog/">Study Hacks</a> and <a href="http://www.todayifoundout.com/">Today I Found Out.</a> -<a href="http://qr.ae/Ac22U">Saurabh Shah</a>7. Check in with your favorite knowledge sources. Every day, scroll through Quora, Stack Overflow, specialty blogs, or any other sources that satiate your hunger for knowledge. This is an extremely easy habit, because other users are curating the content for you, so all you have to do is follow the ones who write about topics interesting to you. Try using Pocket to save articles for later reading, and then try to get through them before going to sleep at night. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>8. Share what you learn with other people. If you find someone to debate and analyze ideas with, you can add to each other's knowledge and gain new perspectives. Also, when you can explain ideas to someone else, it means you've definitely mastered the concept. You can even share what you learn without directly talking to someone. Many people like to start blogs so they can engage others in online dialogue. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcKwX">Mike Xie</a>9. Make two lists: a list of work-related skills you want to learn now and a list for things you want to achieve in the future. Google Docs is a convenient way to keep track of your lists. For both, decide what you want to learn, compile sources that will teach you these skills, and then work on them each day.For example, if you work in a computer-science related field, your first list might suggest you learn something new in Python one day or that you try using MongoDB another day.For your second list, you can think about long-term goals, such as whether you want to go into marketing or architecture. Write down the small steps you need to take to reach that goal, whether it's by reading the experts in those fields or taking classes at a local college. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>10. Make an "I Did" list. At the end of each day, write down what you completed. This will help you feel better about all the things you accomplished, especially if you're feeling discouraged. It will also help you reflect on how productive you were and how you can re-structure your to-do lists for the next day. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>11. Write down what you learn. You can start a blog or use an app like Inkpad to help you keep track of everything you learn. Not only will this be a great way to keep a record of everything you're doing, but it's also a good source of motivation to keep you accountable. You will want to learn more if you know that at the end of the day you'll have to write about it. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>12. Stimulate your mind. Going on a daily run is a great way to get your brain flowing and to keep your mental health in shape. It's also a great way to think through difficult decisions or process new information. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcF2Z">Rick Bruno</a>13. Take online courses. Check out this list of <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/free-online-courses-for-professionals-2014-7" target="_blank">the most popular online courses for professionals</a>. Make sure you don't overload yourself; commit to one to two and truly focus on them. The syllabi will also keep you on track, so you know you will be doing something every day, whether it's listening to a lecture or working on an assignment. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>14. Talk to someone you find interesting. Even if they're strangers, don't be afraid to approach them. Ask about their interests and how they discovered them. Oftentimes, you learn the most from people you barely know. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>15. Hang out with people who are smarter than you. Spend as much time as you can with smart people. Every day, you should strive to have a coffee date or walk with someone who inspires you.Always be humble and willing to learn. Ask as many questions as possible. If you are always around people who are more knowledgeable than you, you'll have no choice but to learn more. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>16. Follow your questions. If you see or hear about something cool, don't just let the moment pass. Follow up - pursue your curiosity and find the answer to your question. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcKwX">Mike Xie</a>17. Use a word-of-the-day app. You will increase your vocabulary, which can help you in competitive tests like the SAT or GRE, or even just sound more eloquent in daily interactions. You can also try to learn new vocabulary in a different language. Every day, try to add five to 10 more words to the foreign language you are trying to pursue. You can use LiveMocha, Basuu, or DuoLingo. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>18. Do something scary. "Getting out of our comfort zone always makes us wiser." Every day, push yourself a little further. Try public speaking by joining a ToastMasters class, lead a meeting by volunteering a proposal at work, or reach out to someone you really admire by sending a quick letter or email. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>19. Explore new areas. If you can't travel every day, at least try to find something new within your hometown. You'll meet different people, learn new facts, and understand something new about the world. It's a lot more productive than staying at home and watching TV. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>20. Play "smart" games. Some games, like chess and Scrabble, expand your mind. Challenge yourself when you play them. For example, play Scrabble without a dictionary. You can also solve puzzles via games like Sudoku, 2048, and Doors. -<a href="http://qr.ae/Ac22U">Saurabh Shah</a>21. Set aside some time to do nothing. Oftentimes, sitting in silence can help you get inspiration and reflect on your day. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>22. Adopt a productive hobby. If you have something you can work on every day, from knitting to fly fishing, you can actively learn more just from doing. For instance, you may try to play a new piece of music every day, read a physics textbook, write a few more pages in your novel, or learn a new computer skill. -<a href="http://qr.ae/Acod1">Mayank Rajput</a>23. Apply what you learn. If you recently learned a new coding skill or how to play an instrument, make sure you are using that skill in your life as often as possible. Learning by doing is one of the most effective ways to become smarter. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcAMk">Himanshu Pal</a><h3> NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/influence-people-techniques-2014-4">7 Psychology Tricks To Influence People And Get Exactly What You Want</a></h3><div id="ooyalaplayer" style="width: 800px; height: 450px;"></div>

23 daily habits that will make you smarter

<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image">AP</div></div></div>U.S. President <keyword id="15962" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Barack-Obama">Barack Obama</keyword> delivered a powerful tribute Tuesday morning at the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/nelson-mandela-memorial-2013-12" target="_blank">memorial service for the late South African President Nelson Mandela</a>.
Here are his remarks, in full:
To Graça Machel and the Mandela family; to President Zuma and members of the government; to heads of states and government, past and present; distinguished guests -- it is a singular honor to be with you today, to celebrate a life like no other. To the people of South Africa -- people of every race and walk of life -- the world thanks you for sharing <keyword id="45802" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Nelson-Mandela">Nelson Mandela</keyword> with us. His struggle was your struggle. His triumph was your triumph. Your dignity and your hope found expression in his life. And your freedom, your democracy is his cherished legacy. 
It is hard to eulogize any man -- to capture in words not just the facts and the dates that make a life, but the essential truth of a person -- their private joys and sorrows; the quiet moments and unique qualities that illuminate someone's soul. How much harder to do so for a giant of history, who moved a nation toward justice, and in the process moved billions around the world.
Born during World War I, far from the corridors of power, a boy raised herding cattle and tutored by the elders of his Thembu tribe, Madiba would emerge as the last great liberator of the 20th century. Like Gandhi, he would lead a resistance movement -- a movement that at its start had little prospect for success. Like Dr. King, he would give potent voice to the claims of the oppressed and the moral necessity of racial justice. He would endure a brutal imprisonment that began in the time of Kennedy and Khrushchev, and reached the final days of the Cold War. Emerging from prison, without the force of arms, he would -- like Abraham Lincoln -- hold his country together when it threatened to break apart. And like America's Founding Fathers, he would erect a constitutional order to preserve freedom for future generations -- a commitment to democracy and rule of law ratified not only by his election, but by his willingness to step down from power after only one term.
Given the sweep of his life, the scope of his accomplishments, the adoration that he so rightly earned, it's tempting I think to remember Nelson Mandela as an icon, smiling and serene, detached from the tawdry affairs of lesser men. But Madiba himself strongly resisted such a lifeless portrait. Instead, Madiba insisted on sharing with us his doubts and his fears; his miscalculations along with his victories. "I am not a saint," he said, "unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying."
It was precisely because he could admit to imperfection -- because he could be so full of good humor, even mischief, despite the heavy burdens he carried -- that we loved him so. He was not a bust made of marble; he was a man of flesh and blood -- a son and a husband, a father and a friend. And that's why we learned so much from him, and that's why we can learn from him still. For nothing he achieved was inevitable. In the arc of his life, we see a man who earned his place in history through struggle and shrewdness, and persistence and faith. He tells us what is possible not just in the pages of history books, but in our own lives as well.

Mandela showed us the power of action; of taking risks on behalf of our ideals. Perhaps Madiba was right that he inherited, "a proud rebelliousness, a stubborn sense of fairness" from his father. And we know he shared with millions of black and colored South Africans the anger born of, "a thousand slights, a thousand indignities, a thousand unremembered moments…a desire to fight the system that imprisoned my people," he said.
But like other early giants of the ANC -- the Sisulus and Tambos -- Madiba disciplined his anger and channeled his desire to fight into organization, and platforms, and strategies for action, so men and women could stand up for their God-given dignity. Moreover, he accepted the consequences of his actions, knowing that standing up to powerful interests and injustice carries a price. "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I've cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and [with] equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." 
Mandela taught us the power of action, but he also taught us the power of ideas; the importance of reason and arguments; the need to study not only those who you agree with, but also those who you don't agree with. He understood that ideas cannot be contained by prison walls, or extinguished by a sniper's bullet. He turned his trial into an indictment of apartheid because of his eloquence and his passion, but also because of his training as an advocate. He used decades in prison to sharpen his arguments, but also to spread his thirst for knowledge to others in the movement. And he learned the language and the customs of his oppressor so that one day he might better convey to them how their own freedom depend upon his.
Mandela demonstrated that action and ideas are not enough. No matter how right, they must be chiseled into law and institutions. He was practical, testing his beliefs against the hard surface of circumstance and history. On core principles he was unyielding, which is why he could rebuff offers of unconditional release, reminding the Apartheid regime that "prisoners cannot enter into contracts." 

But as he showed in painstaking negotiations to transfer power and draft new laws, he was not afraid to compromise for the sake of a larger goal. And because he was not only a leader of a movement but a skillful politician, the Constitution that emerged was worthy of this multiracial democracy, true to his vision of laws that protect minority as well as majority rights, and the precious freedoms of every South African.
And finally, Mandela understood the ties that bind the human spirit. There is a word in South Africa -- Ubuntu -- a word that captures Mandela's greatest gift: his recognition that we are all bound together in ways that are invisible to the eye; that there is a oneness to humanity; that we achieve ourselves by sharing ourselves with others, and caring for those around us.
We can never know how much of this sense was innate in him, or how much was shaped in a dark and solitary cell. But we remember the gestures, large and small -- introducing his jailers as honored guests at his inauguration; taking a pitch in a Springbok uniform; turning his family's heartbreak into a call to confront HIV/AIDS -- that revealed the depth of his empathy and his understanding. He not only embodied Ubuntu, he taught millions to find that truth within themselves. 
It took a man like Madiba to free not just the prisoner, but the jailer as well, to show that you must trust others so that they may trust you; to teach that reconciliation is not a matter of ignoring a cruel past, but a means of confronting it with inclusion and generosity and truth. He changed laws, but he also changed hearts.
For the people of South Africa, for those he inspired around the globe, Madiba's passing is rightly a time of mourning, and a time to celebrate a heroic life. But I believe it should also prompt in each of us a time for self-reflection. With honesty, regardless of our station or our circumstance, we must ask: How well have I applied his lessons in my own life? It's a question I ask myself, as a man and as a President. 
We know that, like South Africa, the United States had to overcome centuries of racial subjugation. As was true here, it took sacrifice -- the sacrifice of countless people, known and unknown, to see the dawn of a new day. Michelle and I are beneficiaries of that struggle. But in America, and in South Africa, and in countries all around the globe, we cannot allow our progress to cloud the fact that our work is not yet done. 
The struggles that follow the victory of formal equality or universal franchise may not be as filled with drama and moral clarity as those that came before, but they are no less important. For around the world today, we still see children suffering from hunger and disease. We still see run-down schools. We still see young people without prospects for the future. Around the world today, men and women are still imprisoned for their political beliefs, and are still persecuted for what they look like, and how they worship, and who they love. That is happening today.
And so we, too, must act on behalf of justice. We, too, must act on behalf of peace. There are too many people who happily embrace Madiba's legacy of racial reconciliation, but passionately resist even modest reforms that would challenge chronic poverty and growing inequality. There are too many leaders who claim solidarity with Madiba's struggle for freedom, but do not tolerate dissent from their own people. And there are too many of us on the sidelines, comfortable in complacency or cynicism when our voices must be heard.
The questions we face today -- how to promote equality and justice; how to uphold freedom and human rights; how to end conflict and sectarian war -- these things do not have easy answers. But there were no easy answers in front of that child born in World War I. Nelson Mandela reminds us that it always seems impossible until it is done. South Africa shows that is true. South Africa shows we can change, that we can choose a world defined not by our differences, but by our common hopes. We can choose a world defined not by conflict, but by peace and justice and opportunity.
We will never see the likes of Nelson Mandela again. But let me say to the young people of Africa and the young people around the world -- you, too, can make his life's work your own. Over 30 years ago, while still a student, I learned of Nelson Mandela and the struggles taking place in this beautiful land, and it stirred something in me. It woke me up to my responsibilities to others and to myself, and it set me on an improbable journey that finds me here today. And while I will always fall short of Madiba's example, he makes me want to be a better man. He speaks to what's best inside us.
After this great liberator is laid to rest, and when we have returned to our cities and villages and rejoined our daily routines, let us search for his strength. Let us search for his largeness of spirit somewhere inside of ourselves. And when the night grows dark, when injustice weighs heavy on our hearts, when our best-laid plans seem beyond our reach, let us think of Madiba and the words that brought him comfort within the four walls of his cell: "It matters not how strait the gate, how charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul."
What a magnificent soul it was. We will miss him deeply. May God bless the memory of Nelson Mandela. May God bless the people of South Africa.

Here Is Barack Obama's Powerful Tribute To Nelson Mandela [FULL TEXT]

<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div>Want to expand your mind? A little bit of effort every day goes a long way.In the Quora thread, <a href="http://www.quora.com/What-would-you-do-to-be-a-little-smarter-every-single-day">"What would you do to be a little smarter every single day?"</a>, readers shared the habits they follow to fuel their brains.Here are some simple actions that could help you become a smarter person.<h3 dir="ltr">1. Come up with 10 ideas every day.</h3>Think about how to reduce poverty, how to solve a daily problem you have, interesting movie ideas, or anything. It doesn't matter what subject your ideas fall into, as long as you're working your brain and your idea muscles. Your list might even lead to a new startup idea or writing subject. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a><h3 dir="ltr">2. Read the newspaper.</h3>It will help you become more aware of the important things happening around the word. You'll learn to form your own opinions and connect the dots between seemingly unrelated things. You'll also have a lot more to talk about at parties or with friends. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a><h3 dir="ltr">3. Play devil's advocate.</h3>Take something you recently learned and generate a unique opinion on it that wouldn't immediately come to mind. Try to support it with evidence, and be open to the idea that new evidence will change your opinion. Repeat this every day, and you'll become much better at thinking outside the box.If you're feeling stuck, try reading and critically evaluating the editorial section of papers. They will help you understand how other people form arguments and express their opinions. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcwvQ">Peter DePaulo</a><h3 dir="ltr">4. Read a chapter in a fiction or non-fiction book.</h3>Aim to read a book a week. You can always find pockets of time to read, whether on your daily commute or while you're waiting in line. Goodreads is a great way to keep track of everything you read and to also find a community of other readers.Fiction books are great for understanding characters and getting absorbed into another perspective, while non-fiction books are great for introducing you to new topics, from politics to psychology. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div><h3 dir="ltr">5. Instead of watching TV, watch educational videos.</h3>Sometimes, it's more fun to watch things about a subject you love than to read about it, and you can learn a lot from other people's experiences.You can find fun, educational videos on Khan Academy or watch TED talks. You can also find good ones on Youtube's channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/destinws2">SmarterEveryDay.</a> In videos, the information is often presented in a digestible, memorable way, so you can be assured they'll stick. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcHM3">Hendrik Sleeckx</a><h3 dir="ltr">6. Subscribe to feeds of interesting information. </h3>Follow interesting voices on Facebook and Twitter, so you'll always learn something new when you look at your newsfeed or dashboard. For example, if you want to keep up with the latest news in science and technology, subscribe to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=1&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=0CB8QFjAA&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FIFeakingLoveScience&amp;ei=H2zFU4D2Msq-sQTij4KoCg&amp;usg=AFQjCNFPGYC-s8ItfHmSqpx5H1nRHexajA&amp;bvm=bv.70810081,d.cWc">"I Fucking Love Science"</a> page on Facebook. You can also follow email newsletters, such as Cal Newport's <a href="http://calnewport.com/blog/">Study Hacks</a> and <a href="http://www.todayifoundout.com/">Today I Found Out.</a> -<a href="http://qr.ae/Ac22U">Saurabh Shah</a><h3 dir="ltr">7. Check in with your favorite knowledge sources. </h3>Every day, scroll through Quora, Stack Overflow, specialty blogs, or any other sources that satiate your hunger for knowledge. This is an extremely easy habit, because other users are curating the content for you, so all you have to do is follow the ones who write about topics interesting to you. Try using Pocket to save articles for later reading, and then try to get through them before going to sleep at night. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a><h3 dir="ltr">8. Share what you learn with other people.</h3>If you find someone to debate and analyze ideas with, you can add to each other's knowledge and gain new perspectives. Also, when you can explain ideas to someone else, it means you've definitely mastered the concept. You can even share what you learn without directly talking to someone. Many people like to start blogs so they can engage others in online dialogue. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcKwX">Mike Xie</a><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div><h3 dir="ltr">9. Make two "To Do" lists: one of work-related skills you want to learn now, and another of things you want to achieve in the future.</h3>Google Docs is a convenient way to keep track of your lists. For both, decide what you want to learn, compile sources that will teach you these skills, and then work on them each day.For example, if you work in a computer-science related field, your first list might suggest you learn something new in Python one day or that you try using MongoDB another day.For your second list, you can think about long-term goals, such as whether you want to go into marketing or architecture. Write down the small steps you need to take to reach that goal, whether it's by reading the experts in those fields or taking classes at a local college. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a><h3 dir="ltr">10. Write an "I Did" list.</h3>At the end of each day, write down what you completed. This will help you feel better about all the things you accomplished, especially if you're feeling discouraged. It will also help you reflect on how productive you were and how you can re-structure your to-do lists for the next day. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a><h3 dir="ltr">11. Start a "Stop Doing" list.</h3>To clear out the mental clutter, take note of the mindless ways you spend your time. Break old habits, and make time for new, better ones. As <a href="http://www.farnamstreetblog.com/2014/07/jim-collins-stop-doing-list/">Warren Buffett says</a>, "The difference between successful people and very successful people is that very successful say 'no' to almost everything." -<a href="http://www.quora.com/What-would-you-do-to-grow-a-little-intelligent-and-knowledgeable-every-single-day/answer/Shane-Parrish-2?srid=iXqa&amp;share=1">Shane Parrish</a><h3 dir="ltr">12. Write down what you learn.</h3>You can start a blog or use an app like Inkpad to help you keep track of everything you learn. Not only will this be a great way to keep a record of everything you're doing, but it's also a good source of motivation to keep you accountable. You will want to learn more if you know that at the end of the day you'll have to write about it. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a><h3 dir="ltr">13. Stimulate your mind. </h3>Going on a daily run is a great way to get your brain flowing and to keep your mental health in shape. It's also a great way to think through difficult decisions or process new information. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcF2Z">Rick Bruno</a><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div><h3 dir="ltr">14. Take online courses. </h3>Check out this list of <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/free-online-courses-for-professionals-2014-7" target="_blank">the most popular online courses for professionals</a>. Make sure you don't overload yourself; commit to one to two and truly focus on them. The syllabus will also keep you on track, so you know you will be doing something every day, whether it's listening to a lecture or working on an assignment. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a><h3>15. Talk to someone you find interesting. </h3>Even if they're strangers, don't be afraid to approach them. Ask about their interests and how they discovered them. Oftentimes, you learn the most from people you barely know. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a><h3 dir="ltr">16. Hang out with people who are smarter than you. </h3>Spend as much time as you can with smart people. Every day, you should strive to have a coffee date or walk with someone who inspires you.Always be humble and willing to learn. Ask as many questions as possible. If you are always around people who are more knowledgeable than you, you'll have no choice but to learn more. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a><h3 dir="ltr">17. Follow your questions. </h3>If you see or hear about something cool, don't just let the moment pass. Follow up - pursue your curiosity and find the answer to your question. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcKwX">Mike Xie</a><h3 dir="ltr">18. Use a word-of-the-day app. </h3>You will increase your vocabulary, which can help you in competitive tests like the SAT or GRE, or even just sound more eloquent in daily interactions. You can also try to learn new vocabulary in a different language. Every day, try to add five to 10 more words to the foreign language you are trying to pursue. You can use LiveMocha, Basuu, or DuoLingo. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a><h3 dir="ltr">19. Do something scary. </h3>"Getting out of our comfort zone always makes us wiser." Every day, push yourself a little further. Try public speaking by joining a ToastMasters class, lead a meeting by volunteering a proposal at work, or reach out to someone you really admire by sending a quick letter or email. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a><h3 dir="ltr">20. Explore new areas.</h3>If you can't travel every day, at least try to find something new within your hometown. You'll meet different people, learn new facts, and understand something new about the world. It's a lot more productive than staying at home and watching TV. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div><h3 dir="ltr">21. Play "smart" games.</h3>Some games, like chess and Scrabble, expand your mind. Challenge yourself when you play them. For example, play Scrabble without a dictionary. You can also solve puzzles via games like Sudoku, 2048, and Doors. -<a href="http://qr.ae/Ac22U">Saurabh Shah</a><h3 dir="ltr">22. Set aside some time to do nothing.</h3>Oftentimes, sitting in silence can help you get inspiration and reflect on your day. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a><h3 dir="ltr">23. Adopt a productive hobby.</h3>If you have something you can work on every day, from knitting to fly fishing, you can actively learn more just from doing. For instance, you may try to play a new piece of music every day, read a physics textbook, write a few more pages in your novel, or learn a new computer skill. -<a href="http://qr.ae/Acod1">Mayank Rajput</a><h3 dir="ltr">24. Apply what you learn.</h3>If you recently learned a new coding skill or how to play an instrument, make sure you are using that skill in your life as often as possible. Learning by doing is one of the most effective ways to become smarter. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcAMk">Himanshu Pal</a><h3 dir="ltr">25. Exercise, and eat a healthy diet. </h3>Opt for <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/food-and-productivity-2014-3">brain foods</a> to fuel your thinking, and avoid alcohol and heavy meals that will make you sluggish. When your energy dips, take a walk. "The more blood flowing into your brain, the better your performance. Great thinkers like Mahatma Gandhi and Charles Darwin were famous for their long walks." -<a href="http://qr.ae/0xUCS">Janne Piiroinen</a>This is an update of an article originally written by Maggie Zhang. <div class="margin-top"> <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-make-good-first-impression-science-body-language-2015-4">Scientists figured out how to avoid making a bad first impression</a></h3> <div> <div> <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="QyeGE1bjqy83ve-kK24C5BgWXh4_Kmxj" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div> </div> </div> </div>

25 daily habits that will make you smarter

<div class="KonaFilter image-container float_right"><div class="image">Courtesy of Bradley Page</div></div>Getting smarter isn't something that happens overnight. Instead, you have to build your intelligence every day through intentional daily habits. 
In a recent Quora thread, <a href="http://www.quora.com/What-would-you-do-to-be-a-little-smarter-every-single-day">"What would you do to be a little smarter every single day?"</a>, readers shared their advice on good habits you can establish.
Here are some simple actions that could help you become a smarter person.
1. Come up with 10 ideas every day. Think about how to reduce poverty, how to solve a daily problem you have, interesting movie ideas, or anything. It doesn't matter what subject your ideas fall into, as long as you're working your brain and your idea muscles. Your list might even lead to a new startup idea or writing subject. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>
2. Read the newspaper. It will help you become more aware of the important things happening around the word. You'll learn to form your own opinions and connect the dots between seemingly unrelated things. You'll also have a lot more to talk about at parties or with friends. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>
3. Play devil's advocate. Take something you recently learned and generate a unique opinion on it that wouldn't immediately come to mind. Try to support it with evidence, and be open to the idea that new evidence will change your opinion. Repeat this every day, and you'll become much better at thinking outside the box.
If you're feeling stuck, try reading and critically evaluating the editorial section of papers. They will help you understand how other people form arguments and express their opinions. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcwvQ">Peter DePaulo</a>
4. Read a chapter in a fiction or non-fiction book. Aim to read a book a week. You can always find pockets of time to read, whether on your daily commute or while you're waiting in line. Goodreads is a great way to keep track of everything you read and to also find a community of other readers.
Fiction books are great for understanding characters and getting absorbed into another perspective, while non-fiction books are great for introducing you to new topics, from politics to psychology. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>
5. Instead of watching TV, watch educational videos. Sometimes, it's more fun to watch things about a subject you love than to read about it, and you can learn a lot from other people's experiences.
You can find fun, educational videos on Khan Academy or watch TED talks. You can also find good ones on Youtube's channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/destinws2">SmarterEveryDay.</a> In videos, the information is often presented in a digestible, memorable way, so you can be assured they'll stick. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcHM3">Hendrik Sleeckx</a>
6. Subscribe to feeds of interesting information. Follow interesting voices on Facebook and Twitter, so you'll always learn something new when you look at your newsfeed or dashboard. For example, if you want to keep up with the latest news in science and technology, subscribe to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=1&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=0CB8QFjAA&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FIFeakingLoveScience&amp;ei=H2zFU4D2Msq-sQTij4KoCg&amp;usg=AFQjCNFPGYC-s8ItfHmSqpx5H1nRHexajA&amp;bvm=bv.70810081,d.cWc">"I Fucking Love Science"</a> page on Facebook. You can also follow email newsletters, such as Cal Newport's <a href="http://calnewport.com/blog/">Study Hacks</a> and <a href="http://www.todayifoundout.com/">Today I Found Out.</a> -<a href="http://qr.ae/Ac22U">Saurabh Shah</a>
7. Check in with your favorite knowledge sources. Every day, scroll through Quora, Stack Overflow, specialty blogs, or any other sources that satiate your hunger for knowledge. This is an extremely easy habit, because other users are curating the content for you, so all you have to do is follow the ones who write about topics interesting to you. Try using Pocket to save articles for later reading, and then try to get through them before going to sleep at night. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>
8. Share what you learn with other people. If you find someone to debate and analyze ideas with, you can add to each other's knowledge and gain new perspectives. Also, when you can explain ideas to someone else, it means you've definitely mastered the concept. You can even share what you learn without directly talking to someone. Many people like to start blogs so they can engage others in online dialogue. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcKwX">Mike Xie</a>
9. Make two lists: a list of work-related skills you want to learn now and a list for things you want to achieve in the future. Google Docs is a convenient way to keep track of your lists. For both, decide what you want to learn, compile sources that will teach you these skills, and then work on them each day.
For example, if you work in a computer-science related field, your first list might suggest you learn something new in Python one day or that you try using MongoDB another day.
For your second list, you can think about long-term goals, such as whether you want to go into marketing or architecture. Write down the small steps you need to take to reach that goal, whether it's by reading the experts in those fields or taking classes at a local college. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>
10. Make an "I Did" list. At the end of each day, write down what you completed. This will help you feel better about all the things you accomplished, especially if you're feeling discouraged. It will also help you reflect on how productive you were and how you can re-structure your to-do lists for the next day. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>
11. Write down what you learn. You can start a blog or use an app like Inkpad to help you keep track of everything you learn. Not only will this be a great way to keep a record of everything you're doing, but it's also a good source of motivation to keep you accountable. You will want to learn more if you know that at the end of the day you'll have to write about it. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>
12. Stimulate your mind. Going on a daily run is a great way to get your brain flowing and to keep your mental health in shape. It's also a great way to think through difficult decisions or process new information. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcF2Z">Rick Bruno</a>
13. Take online courses. Check out this list of <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/free-online-courses-for-professionals-2014-7" target="_blank">the most popular online courses for professionals</a>. Make sure you don't overload yourself; commit to one to two and truly focus on them. The syllabi will also keep you on track, so you know you will be doing something every day, whether it's listening to a lecture or working on an assignment. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>
14. Talk to someone you find interesting. Even if they're strangers, don't be afraid to approach them. Ask about their interests and how they discovered them. Oftentimes, you learn the most from people you barely know. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>
15. Hang out with people who are smarter than you. Spend as much time as you can with smart people. Every day, you should strive to have a coffee date or walk with someone who inspires you.
Always be humble and willing to learn. Ask as many questions as possible. If you are always around people who are more knowledgeable than you, you'll have no choice but to learn more. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>
16. Follow your questions. If you see or hear about something cool, don't just let the moment pass. Follow up - pursue your curiosity and find the answer to your question. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcKwX">Mike Xie</a>
17. Use a word-of-the-day app. You will increase your vocabulary, which can help you in competitive tests like the SAT or GRE, or even just sound more eloquent in daily interactions. 
You can also try to learn new vocabulary in a different language. Every day, try to add five to 10 more words to the foreign language you are trying to pursue. You can use LiveMocha, Basuu, or DuoLingo. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>
18. Do something scary. "Getting out of our comfort zone always makes us wiser." Every day, push yourself a little further. Try public speaking by joining a ToastMasters class, lead a meeting by volunteering a proposal at work, or reach out to someone you really admire by sending a quick letter or email. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>
19. Explore new areas. If you can't travel every day, at least try to find something new within your hometown. You'll meet different people, learn new facts, and understand something new about the world. It's a lot more productive than staying at home and watching TV. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZN9U">Manas J Saloi</a>
20. Play "smart" games. Some games, like chess and Scrabble, expand your mind. Challenge yourself when you play them. For example, play Scrabble without a dictionary. You can also solve puzzles via games like Sudoku, 2048, and Doors. -<a href="http://qr.ae/Ac22U">Saurabh Shah</a>
21. Set aside some time to do nothing. Oftentimes, sitting in silence can help you get inspiration and reflect on your day. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AZHxN">Claudia Azula Altucher</a>
22. Adopt a productive hobby. If you have something you can work on every day, from knitting to fly fishing, you can actively learn more just from doing. For instance, you may try to play a new piece of music every day, read a physics textbook, write a few more pages in your novel, or learn a new computer skill. -<a href="http://qr.ae/Acod1">Mayank Rajput</a>
23. Apply what you learn. If you recently learned a new coding skill or how to play an instrument, make sure you are using that skill in your life as often as possible. Learning by doing is one of the most effective ways to become smarter. -<a href="http://qr.ae/AcAMk">Himanshu Pal</a>

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