Former astronaut Mike Massimino recently sat down to discuss his new book, “Moonshot: A NASA Astronaut’s Guide to Achieving the Impossible,” with Heartland Magazine. In the interview, Massimino delved into the wisdom he acquired during his time at NASA and how it has shaped his approach to problem-solving both in space and on Earth.
One key aspect of Massimino’s book is the incorporation of three pieces of NASA wisdom that he finds invaluable in his daily life. The first piece of wisdom, as shared by pilot Rick “CJ” Sturckow, is to give yourself 30 seconds to feel bad after making a mistake at work. Massimino explains that this allows him to process his emotions in a cathartic way before moving on to finding a solution.
The second piece of wisdom, known as Hoot’s Law, is a key approach to problem-solving that Massimino attributes to astronaut Robert “Hoot” Gibson. Before taking action, Massimino encourages individuals to think about how a situation could potentially worsen. This helps him to slow down and seek help or feedback, consequently avoiding compounding the problem further.
Lastly, Massimino emphasizes the importance of collaboration and seeking shared goals with teammates. According to him, by reminding himself of what he has in common with his fellow team members, he is able to build stronger relationships and improve problem-solving abilities.
Throughout his book, Massimino showcases how he has implemented these pieces of NASA wisdom in his career as a professor, media personality, and leadership advisor. Having spent 18 years at NASA, the lessons he acquired during his time there continue to influence his approach to challenges, whether they are faced in space or on Earth.
“Moonshot: A NASA Astronaut’s Guide to Achieving the Impossible” offers readers a unique insight into the mindset of a former astronaut and provides practical advice on overcoming obstacles. Massimino’s personal stories and experiences at NASA serve as a backdrop to these valuable lessons. Heartland Magazine strongly recommends this book to anyone seeking inspiration and guidance in accomplishing their own goals.
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