50. Are You as Observant as You Think?

In this episode of "No Stupid Questions," Angela Duckworth and Stephen Dubner explore the concept of mindfulness, inspired by Ellen Langer's work, and how it contrasts with habit. Stephen recounts a childhood game that enhanced his observational skills, linking it to the broader idea of selective attention and "court awareness." The conversation shifts to Angela's struggles with sleep, despite her efforts to optimize her sleep environment and habits. They discuss potential causes, including a possible connection to her past beliefs about sleep and a surprising discovery that her mother's presence improves her sleep quality, leading to a humorous suggestion to test if Stephen's mother has a similar effect. The episode concludes with a fact check segment clarifying details about mindfulness, the sleep book Angela referenced, and the origins of counting sheep as a sleep aid.