Me, Myself and Us Book Summary - Me, Myself and Us Book explained in key points
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Me, Myself and Us summary

Brian R. Little

The Science of Personality and the Art of Well-Being

4.1 (133 ratings)
15 mins

Brief summary

Me, Myself and Us by Brian R. Little explores personality and how our traits can be malleable. It provides insights and practical strategies for personal growth, while acknowledging the role nature and nurture play in shaping who we are.

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    Me, Myself and Us
    Summary of 7 key ideas

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    Key idea 1 of 7

    Our first impressions are based on personal constructs, which also determine our behavior.

    Everyone knows the saying, “don’t judge a book by its cover.” But actually following this advice is not always as easy as it sounds. Over the course of any day, we regularly make judgements about other people based on our first impressions.

    And there’s more than one kind of first impression. Imagine, for example, that you overhear a customer in a restaurant being very rude to a waiter. How would you feel? You might dismiss the customer as a tactless or abusive person, or you might construct a narrative explaining that he’s just had a bad day at work and doesn’t usually act so aggressively.

    Most people go for the easier explanation – he’s just an inherently rude person. It’s simpler to label people than it is to come up with stories that might explain their behavior.

    These quick judgements aren’t objective, either. They’re based on our personal constructs.

    The term “personal constructs” was first coined by the psychologist George Kelly as a way to describe the complex emotional lenses through which each person views the world. Personal constructs are different for everyone; they might prompt you to think of the restaurant customer as obnoxious, or think of him as authoritative and masculine.

    Personal constructs also determine your behavior and ability to face challenges. The more limited a person’s worldview is, the more difficult it is for them to cope with unexpected problems.

    Imagine you have a friend who’s unable to move on after a bad breakup, for example. If he becomes very pessimistic about humanity and starts viewing everyone he meets as untrustworthy, he’ll have a hard time committing himself to anyone in the future.

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    What is Me, Myself and Us about?

    Me, Myself and Us (2014) is about what it is that makes you you. These blinks outline the different aspects of personalities, what influences them and how they determine our behavior.

    Me, Myself and Us Review

    Me, Myself and Us (2014) explores the fascinating world of personality psychology, offering insights into how our personalities shape our lives. Here's why this book is worth reading:

    • It presents compelling research that challenges the traditional notion of fixed personalities, showing how we can develop and change throughout our lives.
    • By delving into different personality traits, the book provides a nuanced understanding of ourselves and others, enhancing empathy and improving relationships.
    • With its thought-provoking ideas about authenticity and self-awareness, it offers practical guidance on harnessing our unique strengths to lead a fulfilling life.

    Who should read Me, Myself and Us?

    • Psychology and sociology students
    • Anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of herself or himself

    About the Author

    Dr. Brian Little is a psychology professor who has taught at Carleton University, McGill University, the University of Oxford and Harvard University. He specializes in personality psychology.

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    Me, Myself and Us FAQs 

    What is the main message of Me, Myself and Us?

    Embrace your uniqueness for a more fulfilling life.

    How long does it take to read Me, Myself and Us?

    Reading time varies, but the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Me, Myself and Us a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Absolutely! Discover why embracing your authentic self leads to greater happiness and success.

    Who is the author of Me, Myself and Us?

    The author of Me, Myself and Us is Brian R. Little.

    What to read after Me, Myself and Us?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Me, Myself and Us, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • The Personality Brokers by Merve Emre
    • Body Kindness by Rebecca Scritchfield
    • The Divided Self by Ronald D. Laing
    • Reading People by Anne Bogel
    • Do What You Are by Paul D. Tieger
    • The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz
    • Critical Thinking by Richard Paul
    • Man and His Symbols by Carl Jung
    • Presence by Amy Cuddy
    • The Anarchy by William Dalrymple