Think Like a Freak shows the reader that actually you can (and should) embrace change. The authors layout a kind of “problem solve like an economist, who shines a light on unused data. Ultimately you win the day by telling a compelling story.”
I must admit that my favorite lesson surrounded Takeru Kobayashi a Japanese born hot dog eating champion. A lanky asian forcing down 50 hot dogs in just 12 minutes. Wow, the previous record was only 25. Competitive eating does not appeal to me. Yet the story of Takeru’s freak approach very much appeals to the Freak crowd. Maybe a David vs. Goliath moment of the book.
Their story of how to fool respected wine tasters is maybe the most creative part. Robin Goldstein, a wine critic and creator of blindtaste.com which is the food and wine critic’s site for Freaks. The most humorous revelation is that restaurants only need to purchase their affiliation with Wine Spectator. This story reinforces the outlined goal: it is easier to fool adults than children.
Wish to embrace a Freak’s approach to solving challenges? They strongly suggest putting away your moral compass. Most problems remain unsolved by groups who have already decided on the outcome. Possibly the second most important lesson revolves around ego. Embrace the phrase that most fear: “I don’t know.” As they noted it can change your perspective. Get to the root of the problem! Come on, be a Freak!