The book focuses on the impressions and 'thoughts' our subconscious processes in that first 'blink', before our conscious brain takes over. To me, that's similar to what many of us call the 'gut reaction.' Sometimes this nearly instantaneous impression leads us in the right direction, and we should pay heed to it instead of overthinking the situation. Other times it can lead us down the wrong path, particularly when our instant thought comes from a place of bigotry, sexism, and racism, traits we maybe didn't realize we had. Through a series of psychological research and specific examples, Gladwell offers example of both. 
 Although the concept is fascinating, I found an entire book on the subject unnecessary. In fact, I learned most of what I needed in the introductory chapter. I also felt like I was given the information but then given no direction in which to take it. Can I hone my recognition of this split-second thought process? Should I use it to make major decisions? The author does discuss some methods of honing the skill as relates to police officer training, and that's an interesting nugget. And I suppose even without the 'how-to' aspect, just being aware of the unconscious thought within us might help us direct it to a more conscious level.