Sunday, March 14, 2010

Inspirational










This weeks prompt at Sunday Scribblings is 'The book that changed everything'

Dale Carnegie was born in America in 1888. His courses in self-improvement, salesmanship, public speaking and interpersonal skills remain unequalled to this day.


In 1936 he published a book which was to change its readers lives forever, provided of course they followed the advice and guidance contained in its pages. Over 15 million copies of this inspirational book have been sold worldwide and it’s still considered today to be a handbook for life. Politicians, generals, business leaders, salesman and the guy in the street have seen their fortunes changed simply by taking on board some of the ideas put forward by its author.



How to Win Friends and Influence People is nothing more than a no-nonsense guide to getting on with folk. Everything within its pages is plain common sense; it just needs to be pointed out! The advice it imparts is as relevant today as it was over 70 years ago. 

Take for instance the second section which deals with ‘getting people to like you’.

1.   Become genuinely interested in other people.

2.   Smile.


3.   Remember that a person's name is to that person the sweetest and most       important sound in any language.

4.   Be a good listener. Encourage others to talk about themselves.


5.   Talk in terms of the other person's interests.


6.   Make the other person feel important – and do it sincerely.

It’s obvious when you think of it, but how many of us actually practice those few simple rules?

The book goes on to teach you how to handle people, how to be a leader and how to change people’s attitudes and behaviour. It suggests nothing underhand or dishonest. There is no sub-text and no subliminal message, just simple ways in which you can improve the quality of your life and that of those you come into contact with.

I bought a copy forty years ago, and I wouldn’t be without it. 




My book 'My Friend Rosey' is pretty good too! See it HERE!
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9 comments:

  1. Im reading this at the moment and finding it both inspirational and useful in my work as a youth worker - mainly with the adults i work with!

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  2. I am actually re-reading this book. I read it for the first time in high school over 20 years ago. It is a highly recommended book in the Business world. It has really help me build good relationship, and understand people. Which in turn has really helped my business.

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  3. This book is the bible of business management the world over.

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  4. I have never read this, but will now. Thanks

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  5. I have heard of this book and like you, the person who reviewed it said it was life changing.

    Thanks for the good recommendation.

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  6. Many, many years ago I read this book soon after I started work. In it I believe there is a bit about remembering peoples names. Putting this into practice was not a success for when confronting a visitor to the office I immediately recalled "colour" and said "Good morning Mr. Brown." "Sorry lad he replied it's Green"

    Thanks for the memories Keith.

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  7. Read the book many years ago, very influenetial in its time -- thanks for stirring the memories Keith...

    ...rob
    Image & Verse

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  8. I haven't had the pleasure though there are those who would probably say I should....

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  9. I borrowed this book, had it for years and never got around to reading it. However I do all the above, except I don't use people names unless invited.... I will check it out....this time reading it...

    Thanks good post!

    Hugs Giggles

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