My thoughts.
I like this best of all the self-help books I have ever read, and I have read many of them. Dr. Schwartz
has a fantastic way of explaining things. In most of the books I thought the information was original and
cleverly presented. I have read several books that preached looking and dressing the part. This is the
first book that connected with me on this topic (I will not dress lazy anymore…I do agree it matters).
This book is replete with areas I highlighted and that I will return to refresh. I found many of the
principles that currently govern my life presented in this book and in an eloquent fashion. There are
many areas I need to sharpen/tighten up and I feel inspired to do so. I already have two people here
that are going to read this book based on my recommendation. I would love it if you read it as well so
we can talk about it. (Dad Comment: I will)
Synopsis:
The main concept is based around thinking big. No one accomplishes more then they set out to
accomplish. So, visualize big things. At first, I was skeptical of this concept but as I continued reading, I
went all in. Some of the think big concepts are:
1.) Don’t sell yourself short. You are better than you think.
2.) Use a big thinkers vocabulary. Use big, bright, cheerful words. Use words to promise victory, hope,
happiness. avoid words that create unpleasant images of failure, defeat, grief.
3.) Stretch your vision. See what can be, not just what is. Practice adding value to things, to people,
and to yourself.
4.) Get a big view of your job.
5.) Before getting involved in petty matters, ask yourself “Is it really important?”
Successful people always search for a better way. Absolute perfection is unattainable (except for me….
ha). The successful person doesn’t ask “can I do it better?” THEY KNOW THEY CAN. So, they phrase
their question. “How can I do it better?”
One of my favorite portions of the book applying exactly what I am dealing with now is: big people
monopolize listening, small people monopolize the talking. Top level leaders in all walks of life spend
more time listening, requesting advice, then they do give it. Leaders are decision-making machines. In
reaching creative decisions, the raw materials are the ideas/suggestions that come from others.
Ultimately the ideas of others help to spark your own ideas, so your mind is more creative. Asking and
listening is how we learn the best.
This book spends much time preaching, building others up so that you rise with them. This is a
philosophy I personally believe in. Also, we are a product of our environment. The environment shapes
us, makes us think as we do.
The most successful people are humble. Pay attention to who influences you. Don’t listen to negative
influences.
