When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel H. Pink

Much of what we do at work, at school, and at home, we do in concert with other people. Our ability to survive and even to live depends on our capacity to coordinate with others in and across time. An outstanding example is found in the functioning of choirs where voices combine and the result transcends the sum of the parts. Note that group timing requires a boss who is above, apart, and essential.
The need to belong is a fundamental human motivation. Belonging profoundly shapes our thoughts and emotions. Its absence leads to ill effects, its presence to health and satisfaction. Feelings of belonging boost job satisfaction and performance. Also, note that touching is a form of syncing. Working in harmony with others makes it more likely we’ll do well. Coordinating makes us better people. At the end, Daniel provides seven ways that you can find your syncher’s high along with tips for promoting belonging to your group.

Daniel ends by reminding us how complex time and timing are. The timing associated with nostalgia delivers a sense of meaning and a connection to others. Only humans can “pre-experience” the future by simulating it in our minds. When we experience awe, time slows down. Timing is important, but it is also inscrutable (not easily understood). Dan finds writing as an act of discovering what you think and what you believe. He used to believe in the value of happy endings. Now he believes that the power of endings rests not in their unmitigated sunniness but in their poignancy and meaning. He used to believe that timing was everything. Now he believes that everything is timing.

Daniel is the author of several books, including the New York Times bestsellers Drive, To Sell is Human, and A Whole New Mind. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into 35 languages. He lives with his family in Washington, DC.