How To Think Like Leonardo da Vinci

The book starts of by laying down a simple (simplistic?) logic of becoming a better person: adopt a role model; and obviously offers Leonardo da Vinci as the role model. I am not really surprised at this choice. After all, Leonardo has been declared the best f the best, the genius of all times.

The book then goes on to list the seven Da Vincian principles:

Curiosita - an insatiable curious approach to life and an unrelenting quest for continuous learning.

Dimostrazione - a commitment to test knowledge through experience, persistence, and a willingness to learn from mistakes.

Sensazione - The continual refinement of the senses, especially sight, as the means to enliven experience.

Sfumato - A willingness to embrace ambiguity, paradox, and uncertainty.

Arte / Scienza - The development of the balance between science and art, logic and imagination. "Whole-brain" thinking.

Corporalita - The cultivation of grace, ambidexterity, fitness, and poise.

Connessione - A recognition of and appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things and phenomena. Systems thinking.

Each principle is elaborated by referring to da Vinci's notebooks and sketches and paintings, followed by questions to stimulate thinking and introspection. This is then followed by practical steps to internalize the principle.

On the way, one is also introduced to other path breaking applications of out-of-box thinking applications, such as Mind Mapping and Alexandre Method.

The book is divided into three parts. Part 1 presents a brief overview of Leonardo's life and achievements. Part 2 is dedicated to the seven principles. Part 3 actually attempts to teach you how to draw.

The blurb at the back page of the book claims that this book will help you master:
problem solving
creative thinking
self-expression
enjoying the world around you
goal setting and life balance
harmonizing body and mind

In other words, everything that the master stood for.

The book is a delight to read. It shows you aspects of Leonardo which you may not have known before. The practical exercises may actually do you some good. My only grouse: the Leonardo paintings are not in colour.