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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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How Successful People Think summary
Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life
16 mins
Brief summary
How Successful People Think by John C. Maxwell is a guide for developing effective thinking habits that promote success; focusing on skills such as embracing uncertainty, exploring options, and seeking new ideas to shape daily routine and decision-making.
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How Successful People Think
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Big picture thinkers are constantly learning and know how to empathize with others.
General Electric CEO Jack Welch regularly tells his employees that existing relationships with clients are more important than individual sales. Why? Because he knows that, when it comes to being successful in the long run, it’s sometimes necessary to leave the nitty-gritty behind for a moment and consider the bigger picture.
But how can you start cultivating big picture thinking? By making sure you’re always learning.
Big picture thinkers are always looking for opportunities to learn. They’re constantly on the go, visiting new places, meeting new people and honing new skills.
The author has a handy technique that puts him in the right mindset to do that: he starts his day by looking at his schedule and asking himself what learning opportunities are likely to present themselves.
Once he’s noted down the activities that are most likely to teach him something, he mentally primes himself to be on high alert. That means he’s much more likely to be receptive to what’s going on around him.
So when he once had dinner with National Football League (NFL) coach Dave Wannstedt, for instance, he was well prepared. He used the time to ask him all sorts of questions about teamwork and left the restaurant brimming with new insights.
That’s something you can take up too: spend a couple of minutes each morning looking over your itinerary and ask yourself what opportunities to learn new things you’re likely to encounter.
Making an effort to become a big picture thinker is important because it gives you a window into how other people see the world. In other words, it makes you more empathetic.
And that’s good for your relationships: whether it’s your clients, husband or wife, children or friends, empathizing with those around you will help you understand what they want and need.
Seeing the big picture ultimately helps you think beyond your own narrow interests and take those of others into account.
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What is How Successful People Think about?
How Successful People Think (2009) argues that success is about attitude. More than just staying positive, John C. Maxwell suggests that if you want to make it, it’s time to start thinking realistically and empathetically. Full of fascinating historical examples and practical advice gleaned from today’s most successful people, this detailed roadmap will help you achieve your goals while avoiding the most common mental pitfalls.
How Successful People Think Review
How Successful People Think (2009) by John C. Maxwell is a thought-provoking exploration of the mindset and thought processes of successful individuals. Here's why you should definitely give it a read:
- Packed with practical strategies and techniques, it offers actionable advice that can be applied to every aspect of your life.
- With a combination of real-life examples, quotes, and anecdotes, the book provides valuable insights into the thinking patterns of successful people, making it both relatable and inspiring.
- It challenges traditional notions of thinking and encourages readers to adopt a growth mindset, opening up new possibilities and opportunities.
Best quote from How Successful People Think
Dont ever be impressed with goal setting; be impressed with goal getting.
—John C. Maxwell
Who should read How Successful People Think?
- Those interested in organizational psychology
- Leaders and businesspeople
- People looking for a fresh perspective on success
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How Successful People Think FAQs
What is the main message of How Successful People Think?
The main message of How Successful People Think is that success starts with thinking differently and adopting the mindset of successful people.
How long does it take to read How Successful People Think?
The estimated reading time for How Successful People Think is several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is How Successful People Think a good book? Is it worth reading?
How Successful People Think is worth reading as it provides valuable insights on how successful individuals approach thinking and problem-solving.
Who is the author of How Successful People Think?
The author of How Successful People Think is John C. Maxwell.
What to read after How Successful People Think?
If you're wondering what to read next after How Successful People Think, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- No Excuses! by Brian Tracy
- The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell
- Get Smart! by Brian Tracy
- Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell
- Insight by Tasha Eurich
- The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell
- The Algebra of Wealth by Scott Galloway
- Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
- Think Again by Adam Grant
- Beyond Good and Evil by Friedrich Nietzsche