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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Magic Words summary
Jonah Berger
What to Say to Get Your Way
17 mins
Brief summary
Magic Words by Jonah Berger explores the power of language and how certain words can influence people's thoughts and actions. It offers insights into how to use the right words to persuade, connect, and motivate others.
Table of Contents
Magic Words
Summary of 6 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 6
Activate a sense of identity
Words are all around us. We each use about 16,000 of them a day. Yet we rarely think about which words we use.
It turns out that this choice can be pretty important.
In 2014, scientists conducted a study to find out how to get kids to tidy up. They allowed 4- to 5-year-old children to play for a bit and then waited until they were engaged in another activity. Then, they asked them to tidy up. They asked one group of kids to “help” clean up the toys, while they asked the other group to be “helpers” in cleaning up the toys.
Which group do you think was more likely to tidy up?
The ones that were encouraged to be “helpers.”
This brings us to our first trick in the bag: using words that activate a sense of identity.
One way to do this is to use nouns instead of verbs – like in the study. Nouns evoke category labels. It’s the difference between “Rebecca runs” and “Lisa is a runner.” Category labels such as “runner” imply a certain permanence. They make us think that a trait is an integral part of someone’s personality. Running seems like a stable part of Lisa’s identity, whereas Rebecca simply jogs once in a while.
That’s why it can help to use nouns to get people to do something good. Kids may not want to “help” at the moment, but they want to be seen as a “helper.” In 2008, political strategists used this principle to increase voter turnout. Instead of encouraging people to “vote,” campaigns talked about “being a voter.” It worked: voter turnout rose by 15 percent.
Another way to activate our own sense of identity is to use the word “don’t” instead of “can’t.” When we’re on a diet, for instance, we tend to say things like, “I can’t eat chocolate cake right now, because I’m trying to be healthy.” But this suggests that we actually do want to eat cake – it’s just that some outside force is preventing it. This makes it much harder to resist. So next time you’re trying to change a habit, speak in don’ts: “I don’t eat chocolate cake.” “Don’t” activates our sense of identity, and that makes us feel empowered. It suggests that we’re not trying to be healthy, we are healthy.
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What is Magic Words about?
Magic Words (2023) teaches you how to use the power of language to achieve your goals. Want to win an argument, nail a job interview, or get your child to clean up after themselves? This guide reveals the magical yet scientifically proven words that may make all the difference.
Magic Words Review
Magic Words (2021) by Jonah Berger is a valuable exploration of the influence of language on our thoughts, feelings, and behavior. These three reasons make it a compelling read:
- Through fascinating case studies and research, the book unveils the power of words, showing how they shape our perceptions and interactions with others.
- By providing practical strategies for using language effectively, the book empowers readers to enhance their communication skills and achieve desired outcomes in various contexts.
- With its engaging storytelling and thought-provoking insights, the book ensures a captivating reading experience, making the exploration of language truly enjoyable.
Who should read Magic Words?
- People interested in psychology and language
- Anyone wondering which words to use to market themselves or their product
- Anyone who wants to become better at (public) speaking
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Magic Words FAQs
What is the main message of Magic Words?
The main message of Magic Words is that our choice of words has a powerful influence on our thoughts, actions, and relationships.
How long does it take to read Magic Words?
The reading time for Magic Words varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Magic Words a good book? Is it worth reading?
Magic Words is a worthwhile read. It provides valuable insights into the impact of language and offers practical tips for effective communication.
Who is the author of Magic Words?
Jonah Berger is the author of Magic Words.
What to read after Magic Words?
If you're wondering what to read next after Magic Words, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication by John C. Maxwell
- Win Every Argument by Mehdi Hasan
- Exactly What to Say by Phil M Jones
- Magic Words by Tim David
- How to Make People Like You in 90 Seconds or Less by Nicholas Boothman
- 60 Seconds & You’re Hired! by Robin Ryan
- Good Arguments by Bo Seo
- Steal the Show by Michael Port
- On the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin
- Limitless Mind by Jo Boaler