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Tipping Sacred Cows summary
Jake Breeden
Kick the Bad Work Habits that Masquerade as Virtues
- 4 (17 ratings)
- 10 mins
- 4 Key ideas
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Tipping Sacred Cows by Jake Breeden challenges readers to question the sacred cows - the outdated beliefs and assumptions - that hold them back in their personal and professional lives. It provides a refreshing perspective and practical tips for breaking free and thriving.
Tipping Sacred Cows
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Key ideas in Tipping Sacred Cows
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Key idea 1 of 4
We all want fairness, but often equate it to sameness.
The desire to live in a fair world is hardwired into our brains.
When we see someone experiencing an emotion, our brains mimic it. In fact, one study of this phenomenon showed that if you see someone getting an electric shock, your brain reacts as if you've been shocked.
This natural tendency toward fairness isn't always a good thing, though.
In our quest for fairness, we sometimes confuse it with sameness. We form empathetic connections with others, but sometimes project our own thoughts onto them. Have you ever caught yourself buying someone a gift that was actually something you wanted? When we want something, we often assume others want it too.
In business, this conflation of fairness and sameness often leads people to make the mistake of treating every customer the same. We imagine our customers must all want the same things we want. This can make us accidentally shut out any customers who are different.
So what's the better alternative? Well, you need to constantly remind yourself that everyone is different; strive to treat everyone as an individual.
The Four Seasons hotel implements this doctrine well. It encourages employees to make their guests feel at home, and give them any service they desire. By contrast, the Ritz Carlton have specific rules; e.g., they have to stand at least ten feet away from all guests and greet them with, “How may I help you, [sir or ma'am]?”
Of the two hotels, the Four Seasons has a higher customer satisfaction rate, and a growing market share. It may be because people prefer to be treated as individuals.
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What is Tipping Sacred Cows about?
This book will challenge your assumptions about what virtues really matter in the workplace. It explains how the seven “sacred cows” – balance, collaboration, creativity, excellence, fairness, passion and preparation – may actually be hindering your organization’s performance. It outlines some alternative strategies that will make you and your employees happier and more productive.
Tipping Sacred Cows Review
Tipping Sacred Cows (2013) challenges conventional thinking and encourages readers to question and overcome the assumptions that hold them back. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With its fresh perspective and provocative ideas, it pushes readers to challenge the status quo and think critically about their beliefs.
- Using real-life examples and practical exercises, the book helps readers identify and overcome commonly accepted norms that hinder personal and professional growth.
- Engaging and thought-provoking, the book stimulates introspection, making it a must-read for those seeking personal and professional development.
Who should read Tipping Sacred Cows?
- Entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in business
- Anyone interested in developing their leadership skills
- Anyone who wants to avoid common fallacies of the workplace
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Tipping Sacred Cows FAQs
What is the main message of Tipping Sacred Cows?
The main message of Tipping Sacred Cows is to challenge conventional thinking and break free from limiting beliefs.
How long does it take to read Tipping Sacred Cows?
The reading time for Tipping Sacred Cows varies by individual, but it can be read in a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in 15 minutes.
Is Tipping Sacred Cows a good book? Is it worth reading?
Tipping Sacred Cows offers valuable insights and practical strategies for personal and professional growth. It's definitely worth reading.
Who is the author of Tipping Sacred Cows?
Jake Breeden is the author of Tipping Sacred Cows.