Undo – How history's outliers got stuff done
Episode: How to be a Polymath – Leonardo da Vinci
Host: Mark Steadman
Release Date: March 24, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of Undo, host Mark Steadman delves into the life and methodologies of Leonardo da Vinci, exploring how this quintessential polymath harnessed his diverse interests to achieve extraordinary productivity. Steadman unpacks seven core principles derived from da Vinci’s life, offering listeners actionable insights to enhance their own productivity by embracing curiosity, interdisciplinary learning, and holistic well-being.
Leonardo da Vinci: The Renaissance Polymath
Mark Steadman introduces Leonardo da Vinci as the epitome of a polymath—the quintessential multi-hyphenate who excelled in various fields such as painting, engineering, anatomy, and urban planning. Born in April 1452 in Florence, Leonardo’s prolific career included iconic masterpieces like the Vitruvian Man and The Last Supper, alongside innovative projects like river rerouting and early helicopter designs.
Seven Core Principles of Leonardo da Vinci
Through an analysis of Leonardo’s extensive notebooks and biographies, Steadman identifies seven principles that governed da Vinci’s approach to life and work:
- Be Curious
- Learn by Doing
- Hone Your Senses
- Embrace Uncertainty
- Stay Healthy
- Blend Art and Science
- Only Connect
1. Be Curious
Steadman emphasizes Leonardo’s insatiable curiosity, which often made him a challenging student. Leonardo’s relentless questioning and pursuit of anatomical accuracy—even going so far as to study corpses—demonstrate his commitment to understanding the world intricately.
“Da Vinci could write 100 questions before breakfast, which he probably ate not long before he went to bed, because Da Vinci doesn't strike me as the kind of guy who spent much time sleeping.”
— Mark Steadman [05:30]
Steadman references Michael Gelb’s book, How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci, suggesting that listeners engage in extensive questioning to unlock new areas of interest and potential hobbies.
2. Learn by Doing
Leonardo advocated for experiential learning, challenging conventional methods and encouraging hands-on experimentation. This principle aligns with Rory Sutherland’s insights on innovation—illustrating that unconventional approaches often lead to groundbreaking success.
“Da Vinci was a big fan of challenging assumptions and not just doing things by the book, but by getting hands-on experience.”
— Mark Steadman [06:33]
3. Hone Your Senses
Steadman discusses the importance of sensory awareness in fostering creativity and mindfulness. Simple practices like mindful observation can enhance one’s ability to notice details and derive inspiration from the environment.
“Noticing rather than just looking is useful in so many fields.”
— Mark Steadman [08:00]
4. Embrace Uncertainty
Leonardo’s comfort with ambiguity and paradoxes is highlighted as a key to his innovative thinking. Steadman encourages embracing the unknown and being adaptable in the face of uncertainty.
“If you want to cultivate our inner da Vinci, we need to be more comfortable with paradoxes, ambiguities, and unknowables.”
— Mark Steadman [09:45]
5. Stay Healthy
Contrary to the myth of the tortured artist, Leonardo valued physical health as integral to mental and creative prowess. Maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle provides the energy necessary to pursue diverse interests.
“A healthy buddy doesn't have to mean a sculpted one. This is not about being thin, having a six-pack and being able to bench press a toddler.”
— Mark Steadman [12:15]
6. Blend Art and Science
Leonardo seamlessly integrated art and science, demonstrating that disciplines are interconnected rather than isolated. His works, such as the Last Supper and Vitruvian Man, are testaments to his ability to merge aesthetic beauty with scientific precision.
“The Last Supper is a study in perspective. The paneling along the walls and the ceiling beams all gather towards the vanishing point, which is Jesus's right cheek.”
— Mark Steadman [14:00]
7. Only Connect
Steadman concludes with Leonardo’s belief in interconnectedness, both within oneself and with the larger world. Understanding the ripple effects of our actions and acknowledging our role within a broader system can enhance productivity and personal fulfillment.
“The world of productivity gets tested the most when we think about interconnected systems.”
— Mark Steadman [16:30]
Conclusion
Mark Steadman wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of adopting Leonardo da Vinci’s principles to foster a holistic and productive life. By nurturing curiosity, engaging in experiential learning, maintaining sensory awareness, embracing uncertainty, prioritizing health, blending artistic and scientific endeavors, and recognizing interconnectedness, listeners can emulate da Vinci’s unparalleled productivity.
“Learn new things and put them into practice. Feed your body, mind, and spirit on a healthy diet. And remember, you're part of something bigger.”
— Mark Steadman [18:45]
Steadman also shares a personal reflection on the challenges of implementing these principles, particularly around maintaining moderation and managing dopamine levels, hinting at future discussions on balancing productivity with personal well-being.
Notable Quotes:
- “Da Vinci could write 100 questions before breakfast...” — Mark Steadman [05:30]
- “Noticing rather than just looking is useful in so many fields.” — Mark Steadman [08:00]
- “The world of productivity gets tested the most when we think about interconnected systems.” — Mark Steadman [16:30]
For more insights and resources mentioned in this episode, visit undo.fm/davinci.