15. February 2010 by Farhana N. Shah.

Some interesting points and quotes from this book:

*   It is important that we aware of and enhance our strengths in order to know where we fit in.

*   “the key to human development is building on who you already are.”

*   “You cannot be anything you want to be- but you can be a lot more of who you already are.”

I finished this book during the snowstorm of 2010 in Maryland.  It was refreshing in that it helped me to realize that why be stressed over things I cannot change, but rather take time to build the talents I already possess.  I took their online assessment and found out that my strengths include, but are not limited to the following:

1.  Discipline

2.  Focus

3.  Harmony

4.  Responsibility

5.  Restorative

Once you take the assessment and find out your strengths, you can continue reading about your talents and utilize some of the ideas for actions that are included in the book.  While,  the ideas are not new, it is certainly a reminder for us.  The best part is that it helps us to work with those who may not possess the same talents as us.

The downside to the book is that it is clearly a marketing strategy because you have to purchase the book in order to take the online assessment.  Then there is planning guide in order to apply or improve our strengths.

I recommend it for those who are thinking of a career change, stressed over their current work situation, or just want to know what they excel in…

Posted in Book Review | 1 Comment »

4. February 2010 by Farhana N. Shah.

As an educator in a leadership position, I would rate this book a 3 out of a 5.

I found this book to be simplistic in nature, more like the “idiots guide to personal and professional relationships”.  It focuses on how people deceive themselves by finding faults and blaming others, which puts them “in the box”.  In order to get out of the box, they must have the desire to see and respect others as people.

As I delved into the deeper aspect of this writing, I saw it merely as treating everyone you come in contact with in a human way and not as objects or goals to be accomplished.  As a reflective person, the concept seemed natural to me; the virtue taught by Arbinger Institute is also found in the Quran, Bible, Old Testament, and other books of faith.

What I did appreciate is the fact that is taken from an angle of workplace relationships and presented in a style that is applicable in all aspects of life.  The corporate world dissolved this notion from the onset and used people as objects so I have to agree that it is somewhat refreshing to read about people in big companies who still value this virtue.

While the book is slow and “cheesy” at times, I would recommend it to people who may need a shift in their attitude.

So, what is the message of the book?  Exactly, what Gandhi said, “be the change you wish to see in the world”.

Happy reading!!

Posted in Book Review | No Comments »