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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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In Sheep’s Clothing summary
Understanding and Dealing with Manipulative People
14 mins
Brief summary
In Sheep's Clothing by George Simon Jr. is a guide to recognizing and dealing with manipulative individuals. This book provides readers with actionable techniques to navigate these complex power dynamics and protect themselves from emotional abuse.
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In Sheep’s Clothing
Summary of 6 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 6
Everyone fights, but manipulators fight aggressively, without concern for their opponents.
We’ve all seen it: someone makes a subtle put-down in a social gathering that manages to be hurtful without making the perpetrator look bad. Why would someone even do that?
Some people, manipulators, like to fight others and put them down in order to make themselves look better.
This isn’t to say that manipulators are the only people who engage in bad behavior; indeed, we all fight from time to time.
Assertive fighting for our legitimate needs is often necessary and constructive – as long as we respect others in the process. For example, football players have to compete against each other to win the game, but do so within the rules.
Another example can be found in politics, where ideas and personalities clash, and the best candidates with the best ideas end up being elected – at least that’s the idea.
So how are manipulators any different from the rest of us? The difference is that people with manipulative personalities fight aggressively, pushing their own agenda forward without any regard for other people’s feelings, rights or interests.
The reason why is simple: manipulators have an impaired conscience. Unlike the rest of us, they’re completely unable to see beyond their own self-interest.
Whereas most of us will conform to social rules (such as not intentionally upsetting people), manipulators see this deference to social norms as an act of submission, and will likely view these norms as threats to their self-interest.
For example, manipulative parents who pressure their children to perform at a high level in school or sports, without any concern for their child’s needs and wants or the opinions of teachers and school staff, are more concerned with their own desires than the way their actions will affect their child. They are actively seeking the status that comes with being the parent of a high-performing student.
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What is In Sheep’s Clothing about?
In Sheep’s Clothing (1996) reveals the aggressive, undercover agenda of manipulative individuals, whose covert tactics would otherwise remain hidden. These blinks offers you tools to become aware of, prepare for and deal with the tricks used by manipulative colleagues, family members and friends.
In Sheep’s Clothing Review
In Sheep’s Clothing by George Simon Jr. (1996) is a thought-provoking exploration of manipulative people and their tactics. Here are three reasons why this book is worth reading:
- Full of insightful analysis and case studies, it provides valuable knowledge and helps readers recognize and deal with manipulation in their lives.
- Through its clear explanations and practical advice, the book empowers readers to protect themselves and maintain healthy boundaries in relationships.
- With its detailed exploration of manipulative behaviors and their impacts, the book sheds light on a topic that is often overlooked, making it an eye-opening read.
Best quote from In Sheep’s Clothing
Fighting is not inherently wrong or harmful.
—George Simon Jr.
Who should read In Sheep’s Clothing?
- People who are overly anxious and fearful of social rejection
- People who believe they might be in a relationship with a manipulator
- People who want to learn how to fight back against manipulators
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In Sheep’s Clothing FAQs
What is the main message of In Sheep’s Clothing?
The main message of In Sheep’s Clothing is that some people use manipulation and deceit to get what they want.
How long does it take to read In Sheep’s Clothing?
The reading time for In Sheep’s Clothing varies depending on the reader's speed. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is In Sheep’s Clothing a good book? Is it worth reading?
In Sheep’s Clothing is worth reading as it sheds light on manipulative behavior and provides insight into protecting ourselves and spotting deception.
Who is the author of In Sheep’s Clothing?
George Simon Jr. is the author of In Sheep’s Clothing.
What to read after In Sheep’s Clothing?
If you're wondering what to read next after In Sheep’s Clothing, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Rethinking Narcissism by Craig Malkin
- Should I Stay Or Should I Go by Ramani Durvasula
- Phishing for Phools by George A. Akerlof and Robert J. Shiller
- Surrounded by Narcissists by Thomas Erikson
- Gaslighting by Stephanie Moulton Sarkis
- Emotional Blackmail by Susan Forward with Donna Frazier
- Read People Like a Book by Patrick King
- Games People Play by Eric Berne
- Snakes in Suits by Paul Babiak and Robert D. Hare
- Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft