How reading fiction can make you a better person: A Case Study of Netflix 2020

How reading fiction can make you a better person: A Case Study of Netflix 2020

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, it can be easy to lose touch with our own humanity and the experiences of others. However, modern research suggests that reading fiction can help bridge this gap, making us better individuals and improving our social interactions. Fiction has the power to change us on a neurological level, allowing us to relate to and understand other people's experiences.

One of the ways reading fiction cultivates empathy is by activating the temporal lobe, which is responsible for language processing in the brain. When we immerse ourselves in a story, our brain becomes engaged in understanding the characters' thoughts and emotions. This activation of the temporal lobe not only enhances our language skills but also increases global blood flow in the brain.

Moreover, reading fiction has been found to rev up the motor cortex, the part of the brain involved in physical movement. This activation suggests that when we read about characters engaging in physical activities, our brain simulates those experiences, allowing us to better understand and empathize with others' sensations and actions.

Studies have also shown a link between reading fiction and increased sensory experiences. For example, the olfactory bulb, responsible for our sense of smell, becomes active when we read about scents and aromas in a story. This suggests that reading fiction can transport us to different environments and engage our senses in a way that non-fiction books cannot.

Furthermore, research has found that reading fiction can influence our behavior. In one study, participants who were drawn into a story were more likely to help the researcher by picking up pens that were "accidentally" dropped. Another study found that individuals who were engrossed in a tale were more likely to inquire about additional information regarding a charity. These findings highlight the positive association between reading fiction and affective empathy, which is the capacity to share another's feelings and emotions.

Reading fiction allows us to step into the shoes of the characters, experiencing their joys, sorrows, and struggles. It gives us a glimpse into their lives and perspectives, enabling us to develop a deeper understanding of the human condition. By immersing ourselves in fictional worlds, we can expand our theory of mind and emotional intelligence.

Now, let's shift gears and delve into a case study of Netflix in 2020. Netflix, a leading streaming platform, has revolutionized the way we consume entertainment. The company's success can be attributed to its ability to "Get Big," "Lead," and "Expand," as outlined in the GLEe Model.

The GLEe Model emphasizes thinking long-term and thinking big. By focusing on product leadership, Netflix has been able to stay ahead of the competition. One of the strategies that has contributed to Netflix's success is personalization. The platform uses algorithms to recommend content based on users' preferences, ensuring that each individual has a tailored watching experience.

Another key aspect of Netflix's strategy is original content. By producing their own shows and movies, Netflix has created a unique value proposition for its subscribers. This exclusive content not only attracts new customers but also enhances the overall watching experience, making it harder for competitors to replicate.

Netflix also prioritizes providing a better watching experience for its users. This includes features like seamless streaming, user-friendly interfaces, and offline viewing options. By continuously improving the user experience, Netflix has been able to retain its customer base and drive engagement.

Lastly, Netflix has embraced interactive storytelling as a way to captivate its audience. By allowing viewers to choose their own adventure or interact with the plot, Netflix creates a more immersive and engaging experience. This innovative approach sets Netflix apart from traditional linear storytelling methods.

To ensure continued growth, engagement, and monetization, Netflix employs the GEM Model. This model forces the company to prioritize different aspects of its business. For example, Netflix focuses on year-over-year member growth, which indicates the platform's increasing popularity. Monetization is also a key metric, with a particular emphasis on lifetime value per customer. This metric allows Netflix to understand the long-term profitability of its subscribers.

Engagement is another crucial aspect for Netflix, and they measure it through monthly retention rates. By analyzing how many customers cancel their subscriptions each month, Netflix can identify areas for improvement and take action to retain their user base.

However, retention can be a challenging metric to move, so Netflix employs a proxy metric called the "percentage of members who watch at least 40 hours per month." This metric provides a more sensitive measure of engagement and allows the product team to make data-driven decisions to enhance user experience and increase retention.

In conclusion, reading fiction has far-reaching benefits, from cultivating empathy to improving social interactions. By engaging with fictional stories, we can develop a deeper understanding of others' experiences and emotions. This neurological impact can lead to personal growth and a better understanding of the human condition.

Similarly, Netflix's success can be attributed to its ability to think long-term and think big. By focusing on personalization, original content, a better watching experience, and interactive storytelling, Netflix has become a global leader in the streaming industry. By prioritizing growth, engagement, and monetization through the GEM Model, Netflix continues to dominate the market.

To apply these insights to our own lives, here are three actionable advice:

1. Make time for fiction: Incorporate reading fictional books into your daily routine. Whether it's a few minutes before bed or during your lunch break, immersing yourself in a fictional world can cultivate empathy and expand your understanding of others.

2. Embrace personalization: Take a page from Netflix's book and personalize your own experiences. Tailor your entertainment choices, such as movies, shows, and books, to your preferences. This will enhance your enjoyment and engagement with the content you consume.

3. Prioritize engagement: Just as Netflix focuses on engagement metrics, prioritize engagement in your own life. Whether it's spending quality time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or immersing yourself in interactive experiences, actively seek out opportunities to engage and connect with others.

By incorporating these advice into our lives, we can harness the power of fiction and the strategies employed by successful companies like Netflix to become better individuals and thrive in today's interconnected world.