5 comments about QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability in Work and in Life.

1. This book was handed out to our management team. It is a great common-sense approach to getting things accomplished in work and life by trying to get past the negative things and working on what you can do to make it better. It had great real-life examples.



2. I bought this for me and my customer staff. It was a quick read with a lot of substance. It truly does apply to both work and life.



3. The QBQ is a great read for team and personal responsibility. When an organization begins to feel stressed it's time to refocus, look inward and turn the outcomes around.



4. I heard the author on the radio and thought this would be a very good book. I was very disappointed. It is short, some chapters are one paragraph and it has large font. It has some nice thoughts, but it is way over hyped. Save your money.



5. I found QBQ through Dave Ramsey's radio program. Dave is the Financial Peace guru and author of The Total Money Makeover. I am a big Ramsey fan and I figured if QBQ was mandatory reading for his staff then it should be for me and my team as well. QBQ is a quick read and when actually put into practice can have a dramatic impact on one's personal and professional life. Unfortunately, many people will miss its profound implications because of its simplicity. The fact is, if you're like me, you have very little time to learn new concepts much less put them into practice. If so, you're going to love QBQ. This is something that is simple enough to absorb quickly and practical enough to use every day! As a VP for a large organization I cannot think of a better culture to develop than one of Personal Accountability. It's the one concept that brings everything else to life. QBQ is the real deal when it comes to making Personal Accountability a core value in your life. I would also recommend Flipping the Switch by Miller which takes QBQ even further.

5 comments about The Feeling Good Handbook.

1. Abstract
   
   The following study investigates the text, The Feeling Good Handbook, by David Burns. Specifically addressed are issues regarding the cognitive-behavioral model of twisted thinking, moral relativism, and the denial of objective truth. It was found that the text provides an inadequate definition and application regarding moral and objective truth issues. Recommendations for revision of the model are included.
   
   
   A Critical Analysis of the Feeling Good
   Handbook: Its Usefulness in Counseling Practice
   
   In addition to the popular text Feeling Good, which became a national bestseller, and The Therapists Toolkit, a resource developed for mental health practitioners, David Burns released The Feeling Good Handbook, a 729-page (including index) guide to cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques. Semantically speaking, the text is well written, in simple (approximately 8th grade level) English, and is specifically marketed as a self-help text, though its usefulness for counselors is evident in that throughout the text the reader is often asked to assume the roll of the counselor, and after Burns describes a therapeutic technique, the reader is asked in a presented milieu, to implement that technique (for example, responding to a hypothetical client in a vignette empathetically).
   
   In beginning to review this text, it is noticed a review can be accomplished in two ways. One, the text can be analyzed in respect to how it communicates the points it attempts to make (presentation), how it facilitates the ability in the reader to implement what is learned into his/her life or practice (application), and it can be reviewed in regards to how accurately the book delivers the ideas of cognitive therapy, mood therapy, empathetic response, etc. In all these aspects the book veers well--quite well--for even Albert Ellis (who holds a reputation of not being impressed with others' therapeutic approaches) critiques the text as "Clear, systematic, forceful."
   
   The second approach to analyzing the text, the approach that will be taken, involves an investigation of one can trust as a suitable methodology the tenets from which the text is written, the tenets of cognitive therapy. It will address where the tactics disclosed by Burns are believed to be useful, and when it is hypothesized they would falter in a counseling practice.
   Understanding Your Moods
   
   Burns begins discussing moods by stating the fallacy clients often share, which is "I just can't help the way I feel" (Burns, 1999, p. 3). He then states a grounding premise of cognitive behavioral theory, which is that one's thoughts create moods. Quoting Ellis, the acronym A + B = C is stated. In this formula, A is the presenting event, B is the thoughts of the client, and C is the way the client feels. This formula is to show As do not create Cs--that is, what happens to a person does not effect that person's mood. The thoughts the person maintains affect the person's mood.
   
   However, in reading the text, it is found that the true formula used in the text is not A + B = C, it is B = C, A = 0. The point being, the book extremely minimizes the effect of A. A, in essence, is described as a force that is prone to trying to manipulate one's B to produce unpleasant C's, but is in itself generally insignificant. More clearly, the situations, trials, relationships, and anything else external a person confronts merely challenges a person's thoughts. If the thoughts can be changed, or maintained as healthy thoughts, the person will always report a pleasant mood (C).
   
   According to Burns, "sadness and depression result from thoughts of loss," "Anxiety and panic result from thoughts of danger," and "Guilt results from the thought that you are bad" (Burns, 1999, p. 5). To Dr. David Burns' credit he does state the following, which he titles a disclaimer: that there are times when negative feelings are appropriate and healthy, and that "learning when to accept these feelings and how to cope with a realistically negative situation is just as important as learning how to rid yourself of distorted thoughts and feelings" (p. 7). The reader must ask him/herself at this point, if Dr. Burns believes this amazingly astute point (i.e. equal importance), why then is only one line spent addressing that As are relevant, while 728.5 pages are spent denying their relevance?
   False Sincerity of the Empathetic Response
   
   A rebuttal to the statement that Burns' methodology denies all relevance of coping with a negative situation would probably include the premise that such is accomplished with the use of the empathetic response. The problem with this premise however, is the use of the empathetic response validates nothing. The therapist agrees to none of the truth that the client speaks. The empathetic response simply makes the client aware that the counselor is aware of his/her hurtful thinking.
   
   Reading the text a reader might be perplexed with the question, when is there objective truth in thinking? More specifically, can not hurtful thinking (i.e. I have been a terrible father) be accurate? And if it is accurate, who is to say disposing of this accurate--though hurtful thought--is in essence better for the client than allowing the client to maintain this thought until the client changes his/her behavior so that the client can display another more healthy, and accurate, thought, (i.e. I am no longer a terrible father). However, by Burns' model, the man who states he is a terrible father, even if it is true (by all ability to quantify what a terrible father is), will be handled in the following way.
   
   One, the client would be empathized with: "You are telling me that you are not a very good father, and you are clearly upset with that." Two, the counselor might disclose an "I feel" statement: "I would definitely not want to feel like I was a terrible father. That must be a horrible feeling." Three, it would be suggested to the client that he has twisted thinking which include "Should Statements" (You are wrongly telling yourself you should not be a terrible father), "Labeling" (there is no such thing as a terrible father, just persons who act the roll sometimes), "All-or-Nothing thinking" (surely you have done something that was not terrible--for example you are in therapy), "Overgeneralization" (Being a terrible father is a general simplification. Burns states "there are no Jerks in America" only persons who act like jerks from time to time), "Mental Filter" (you are pretty upset over this whole fatherhood thing. Lets think on things you're not terrible at), and the list goes on.
   
   Burns' model provides no basis for determining what is "twisted thinking" and what is thinking that is the downright painful truth. He states, there are no Jerks in America--just those that act like Jerks. But if a "jerk" does not exist, then from what basis can one state an action as jerk-like? Furthermore, in the 700 plus pages of text on how to handle clients, not once does Burns confront a client because his/her thinking was pleasant but skewed. Therefore, it is a safe conclusion that--though Burns may briefly claim otherwise--to Burns pleasant thinking is correct thinking.
   
   This is further evidenced in text when Burns addresses confrontation. Choices of words include "it was unpleasant when" or "I felt uncomfortable when" (Burns, 1999, p. 156). Both are notoriously relative remarks. There is no claim to objective truth; there is no "what you did was wrong," or "I was treated unjustly." Such relativism can be no more apparent than in the following excerpt:
   You may have difficulty with this idea [that there is not use for shoulds]. You may insist that there's nothing wrong with using the word "should." You may think that it's your duty to clean your desk or to study hard. You may feel it is something you should do!
   
   There are actually [only] three valid uses of the word "should" in the English language. One is the "moral should." You "should" not intentionally take advantage of someone, because this violates your moral code. The second is the "legal should." You should not drive at 90mph because it is dangerous and you'll probably get a ticket. The third is the "laws of the universe should." Things "should" happen because the forces of nature make them happen. For example, if you drop a pen, it "should" fall because of the force of gravity (p. 179).
   
   The enormity of the errors in the thinking above is staggering. First, the only two claims of truth presented above are (one) that it is wrong believe one ought to believe there are moral shoulds or shoulds caused by one's duty, and (two) that the English dictionary agrees with David Burns. Both claims are false.
   
   It is very possible that someone could have a duty to study. A physician being paid to study the effects of a rare disease infecting his/her patient, for example, is an explicit instance when there is a definite "should" due to duty. One would concur that the situation would not have to be so dire (matter of life and death) to still constitute a legitimate should. Though Burns--in the quote above--states that one "feels" shoulds, and does not know them or objectively understand them (lines 3-4).
   
   Next, Burns' first definition of a true should is logically meaningless, in that he states it is truth that one should not take advantage of someone (a valid should) because it violates the person's moral code. Therefore, Burns is saying, as long as one is not violating their own relative moral code, he/she can take advantage of anyone and not be violating a "should." Burns' second definition, regarding the legal should, is quite depraved in that he states speeding violates a legal should (true) because one could hurt him/herself or get a ticket. In reality, Burns is not addressing a legal should at all for legally the should would remain constant whether on not the violator injures him/herself, or receives a ticket for the violation. What Burns is really stating in his example is the claim that one should not partake of behavior that may cause As that could instigate unpleasant Bs.
   
   Lastly, Burns demotes the laws of physics, to the shoulds of physics! If one drops a pen according to Burns, it should hit the floor. According to the law of gravity however, if one drops a pen, it will hit the floor.
   Discussion
   
   Cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective. Burns does a fantastic job of describing how to implement cognitive principles into one's personal life, even into one's counseling practice. The ideas are useful for healing. However, the theory is weak in that it does not provide the practitioner, nor the client, correct direction regarding what is twisted thinking, and what is true--though painful--thinking.
   
   Final Note: Telephone and Online Counseling may be a good way to provide quick and effective care to clients. Learn to provide Telephone and Online Counseling with this very well done book: The Therapist's Clinical Guide to Online Counseling and Telephone Counseling: The Definitive Training Guide for Clinical Practice



2. If you just want to read "Feeling Good", do not buy this handbook version of the book.
   
   The author uses imperative statements and not so subtle naratives to coerce the reader into doing the exercises. The objective... teach in simple practical terms Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methods for reprogramming out thinking.
   
   Plan to read a few pages and then work on some exercises and ponder over your beliefs and values.
   
   This is not a book for speed reader rabbits. It is more for the the thoughtful, consistent tortoise.
   
   Michael P



3. I bought this for myself over a year ago and cannot say enough good things about it (this purchase was for a dear family member). This book has opened up my eyes and the dark clouds that surrounded me for years...



4. I had read this book years ago in a different version. At the time, I found it a very helpful point of view. Now cognitive therapy is not so new and I am accustomed to realizing that my attitude toward unfortunate situations are in my control, whether the situation is or not. The exercises are helpful to put your events in perspective. Even if you think you know the things that are suggested, putting your own problems on paper and practicing the steps, is more enlightening than you might expect. If you have not encountered cognitive therapy before, this book, the ideas that are outlined, and the exercises, if you will do them, are essential for your well-being. You may not feel "good," but I bet you will feel "better."



5. I won't write a novel here, but I wanted to say a few things about this book. I have started countless self-help books over the years, only to get bored and never finish them. This is the first one that I have read cover to cover and it has made the most sense to me. Many of the situations and case studies he describes relate directly to me, and it made me feel like I was not alone in my self-esteem issues. A few times I was overcome with emotion, feeling like for the first time, someone truly understood how I felt, that I was not the only person in the world who processed thoughts this way, and was there to help me make changes that would improve my quality of life.
   
   I highly recommend this workbook version (there is a regular book), as the exercises make all the difference if you take the time to do them. I can't say I'm a totally new person, but my way of thinking and perceiving has altered for the better. It's a long process...a ship doesn't turn on a dime in the ocean. This is an excellent place to start.
   
   Try it, and take the first step to a better life.

5 comments about Be a Real Estate Millionaire: Secret Strategies To Lifetime Wealth Today.

1. I have read two books recently, the first one was 'Slash' by the famed Guns N' Roses guitarist and this book by Dean Graziosi, real estate mogul, telling me that I, too, can make millions in real estate. After reading both I have come to this conclusion............I'm joining a rock band!!!



2. 
   This book is not the best book ever written about real estate. More or less it is an advertisement for his real estate course. He does offer a little incite into real estate, but not enough to start investing.



3. I saw a TV ad on this book and ordered it along with all the other items that I let them talk me into because it was a "special deal" since I was new.
   As a real estate agent, I am looking for new ideas on a regular basis with plans to start flipping homes.
   I should have done my homework on Dean Graziousis as when it was all said and done, I found the book to be mostly hype and a whole lot of bragging on Dean Graziosis and what a wonderful person he is. I really cannot tell you much more about the book other than he "walks on water" in his own mind.
   I did plan on keeping the book but I attempted to return some of the products and I have never been treated so rudely in my life!! It took 50 to 60 phone calls and the best I ever received was you have called the wrong department and when I finally reached the right one, all I received was being HUNG UP ON!
   Now I am a mature adult and run my own business and I have never hung up on a customer, ever! I just cannot imagine a person who claims to care so much about people, being so shielded by hundreds of different call answering companies, most of who have no clue what you are talking about. I was supposed to get a web page with the order, was supposed to be able to cancel the "Foreclosure Alert" program, etc. I was charged repeatedly as there was no way to get through to anyone who knew anything.
   All I can say is there are a lot of honest, experienced writers out there but if you want really good advise "stay away from Dean Graziousi's and anything he has to offer, especially his good deals!



4. Dean Graziosi seems to be the only legitimate real estate guru out there today. All the others want to sell you their book, or initial information cheaply, then all they want to do is keep up-selling you more and more junk for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, from seminars, to home study programs to weekend-long "boot-camps!" Dean is different. I bought his "Think A Little Different" course off a TV info-mercial last week BEFORE I even bought his book. The book is great to get you started. He even says right in the book that you are welcome to continue your education with his courses, etc..., but he also tells you that the book is all you need to get started! The book steps you through your first real estate transaction and lays the foundation for a successful real estate investing career. I have tried Carleton Sheets and Ron Legrand with no success at all, but Dean Graziosi is the REAL DEAL!



5. This guy is making more money selling the book and his course, and is deluded by his own self-agrandizement. If you want to read some real solid advice, read any of Donald Trump's books. Who hasn't heard of Donald Trump? And who is this Dean Graziozi? What a crock!

5 comments about Law of Attraction: The Science of Attracting More of What You Want and Less of What You Don't.

1. I was very satisfied with this book. I wanted something that would practically give instruction as to how to achieve results with the law of attraction and this book is it. It doesn't get into all the philosophy of it, but there are other books that do that, which is what I wanted. Great instructional book, easy to read, and doesn't take a lot of time. I especially liked that the worksheets could be downloaded from the author's website.



2. The book is easy to read and very practical.
   I am thankful that the author took the time to write and share with all of us.



3. Losier's book is a good introduction to the Law of Attraction(LOA) for those who appreciate a more practical step-by-step approach. Its easy to read and I think Losier's worksheets and examples are helpful in breaking down more abstract concepts in a way that everyone can relate to. If you have any skepticism, about the LOA this might be a good start. You will see value in beginning to organize your thoughts about what you want and how you feel about those things. On some level, though, you do need to accept the workings of the LOA. Losier may gloss over these in an effort to reach a broader audience, but he does credit Abraham-Hicks for much of his inspiration and information, so the next step would be to go directly to the source and then your understanding of, and ability to use, the LOA will really take off. I'd give it 3.5 stars if I could.
   
   Note: Many have criticized this book for its short length, but content is what matters. For the price, it is good value if you are new to the LOA, after a short read, you'll know enough to start "using" the LOA, which is the whole point.



4. A great guide to learning what and how to use the Law of Attraction. I believe he covers alot of territory and of course, there are many books out there on this subject since The Secret brought this to the forefront.
   I have also read Living The Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbook another guide using the interactive workbook approach with all its many exercises reinforces and helps one follow the Law of Attraction.



5. A great source of information on the Law of Attraction and how to apply it. An Easy read and feel it has helped me to attract that which I want. Also another book Living The Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbook has guided me through its workbook, exercises and journal. Also a must read.

5 comments about The Magic of Thinking Big.

1. I listened to this on unabridged audio, and I loved it! The narrator's voice is charged up with enthusiasm and is very engaging, and the tips and tricks are basic but very powerful. If you are just beginning a new venture and suspect that your mind may not be in the right place - read this book.
   
   I loved the simple exercises and tricks for engaging your passion and excitement about what you do. One trick I tried that I really liked was that I defined what service I was really providing to people. I am a landscaper, so instead of saying "I trim people's gardens and keep them neat", I said "I help people take joy and pleasure in their home and outdoor spaces, and make it easy for them to connect with nature and our awesome outdoor world. I also help them achieve all that they can in their own lives by providing a relaxing and beautiful space for them to unwind and think clearly in."
   
   Do you see how the second one makes me feel charged up every day to go to work? And what an impact that has on my employees, to know that they are in the business of helping people connect with the environment and achieve all they can in their lives, through the enjoyment of their outdoor spaces?
   
   These kinds of small tips help you wrap your mind around making your job your life's work, and help you take things to the next level. I think people hire me over my competitors because I love what I do and it shows in my voice and actions, and this book really helps me keep that passion alive even on the rainy days or when I get bit by wasps.
   
   There were a lot of great small tips like that about how to have the right attitude to enable success. I'd really recommend it to anyone stuck in the doldrums of their work or just beginning a new venture.



2. This book seems to be one of the pioneers to the current trend on learning and applying The Law of Attraction principles. Here the author shows you how to believe to succeed. Excellent book and similar to my favorite, [[ASIN:1419674609 Living The Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbook]which gives you a current approach and application to find what you are looking for.



3. This is a great book, and one of the handful of 'fundamentals' books that should be read by people of all ages, regardless of profession. The earlier in life this book can be read (or listened to) the better, as it is critical to the building blocks of positioning life for success. It is easy to follow, understand, and has excellent tools/techniques that can be applied immediately. Probably a book that should be reviewed again every couple years. Along the lines of the 7 Habits of highly effective people by Covey, this book is another key read for strategy of life.



4. This book has been one of the biggest influences for me in my life. "Thoughts, positive or negative, grow stronger when fertilized with constant repetition." Readers quickly begin to see the connection between worrying and actual misfortune as something they have control over. Thinking positively and not letting yourself be limited by negativity and skepticism has amazing effects on your life and who you see youself as, and it affects who you will become. Read this book if you at all concerned with achieving your goals no matter how BIG they are.



5. I'll keep it simple. I took the advice 'Be a Front Seater' from this book, and went from being a sit-at-the-back, never-volunteer guy to becoming a person consulted by government on legislation affecting private investigators; writing two books; getting the job I always wanted; and many other things.
   
   If that one piece of advice can have such impact, imagine the effect of the rest! BUY IT - and live a new life by taking action on the content.

5 comments about Think and Grow Rich: The Landmark Bestseller--Now Revised and Updated for the 21st Century.

1. While the book's concept intrigued me, it also lost me when Hill started talking about the "ether fields" and telepathy. No amount of "magical thinking" can make someone rich--the best sections of the book are the ones that talk about setting and meeting goals. Even when Hill wrote the book in 1937, pseudo-science such as telepathy had already been debunked. The 21st century updates add new stories but fail to address Hill's unscientific notions of "ether fields."



2. The book that I received has pages with different lengths. So, it doesn't look like a brand new book.



3. I just wanted to warn you that after buying this particular copy published by Tarcher I found it to be very cheaply made and very hard to read because it has tiny print. I have since purchased a different copy by BN Publishing which is great.



4. This book is exactly what the title says. Your life becomes what you want and think it will. This is another of my core principle books that I have based my entrepreneurial life.



5. This is a classic (pun intended) example of what's happening with books that many of us read in the `60's and `70's. The books were written in the `20's, `30's, and even earlier. The Secret, which was no secret, was based on these authors' books. I ordered two of Dr. Joseph Murphy's books to replace ones I had given away only to find out they had been "revised." I was so disgusted I gave them away. Genevieve Behrend's books have been taken over by Joe Vitale. His name even appears first on the covers. The description for one of them starts out with, "Fiery Texas author breathes life into dead woman." If you really want to know what Napoleon Hill had to say, get the original version. The book stands on its own merit without any "help" from people who have no new ideas of their own and are just seeking to make money from someone else's work.

1 comments about Real Life: Preparing for the 7 Most Challenging Days of Your Life.

1. While I'm not quite at the end right now, (38 pages left) I find this book brilliant. It is such a big help and great tool for practically everybody. It's a little bit like a manual for your life, just like you'd get a car manual in your new car or a manual on how to operate your computer etc. It's well written like his books always are and easy to follow and comprehend.
   From the loss of a loved one, or general heartbreak or addiction etc, there is advice and information on how to cope in these terrible situations and crises. There are 7 days that are coming to us all and he tells us how to cope and what to do when they hit. It's about planning and preparation for what is ahead. He breaks the chapters into three different parts - here's what the day is; here's what to expect and getting back to better days. He helps you deal with guilt (like if you have burried someone you love and then some time later comes your first laugh and you feel so bad for laughing when your loved one is gone).
   He also talks in the book about fear and adaptability breakdown (for example not being able to deal with stress at work or in your marriage or with the kids etc and you say that you are so overwhelmed that you can't adapt anymore) and how to move on and get on with life one step at a time and one challenge at a time. He talks about going to the doctor and hearing bad news and then what to do after that (keep your self image strong and powerful so you know you have the ability to move forward) and how to reach out to friends and family for support.
   I do love how he isn't preachy. He really is just helping us get prepared for inevetable days that are definately coming because he knows how hard they are to deal with. It's easy to understand and read and it's very relatable, because even if you haven't gone through some of these situations yourself, you most probably know someone that has and you know that you will down the road. I am really enjoying this book and with only another 38 pages to go, I can highly recommend this already.

5 comments about Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School (Book & DVD).

1. This book is very informative and exciting to read page by page. I'd definitely recommend it to almost anyone...as I have been! Anybody looking to further their knowledge on how our wonderful devices (brains) work in correlation to many of our daily functions should give this one a chance...and I'm only half-way in!



2. Brain Rules is a great book - Medina takes a complex subject (your brain) and makes it seem understandable. His twelve rules are a roadmap for teachers, business people, politicos and really anyone trying to communicate to an audience. I highly recommend this book if you are in any of the above groups. It is light on science and heavy on practical use. If it isn't a mandatory book for every would-be professor it should be.
   
   The book has great practical advice - one such hint on communication is the layout of the 10 minute cycle. One of John's rules is that we only pay attention to things that are interesting and only in 10 minute increments. So if giving a fifty minute lecture you should break the lecture into 5 10 minute topics starting with the gist of the subject and within the first minute grabbing everyone's attention using an emotional attention grabber - if successful you have 10 minutes to get your message through. Repeat it often during the next four sessions and you have a chance to get the message to stick. Use a picture to express the idea and that chance to get your message to stick goes from 10% to 65% over a thirty six hour period. - It is in the book.
   
   Highly recommend!



3. This author, a well educated neuroscientist, has that rare ability to combine scientific wisdom, common sense and a sense of humor into a cocktail that goes down easy and creates a very pleasant feeling, but doesn't make you stupid. You then know what you need to do to be healthier, live longer and feel better. The rest is up to you.



4. Dr. John Medina, the author of "Brain Rules," is a tsunami of positive energy. If you're not lucky enough to see him speak live, take the time to explore the book's website ([...]) and view the DVD packaged with the book. His qualifications are top-notch - he's a developmental molecular biologist focused on the genes involved in human brain development and the genetics of psychiatric disorders. He currently holds joint affiliate faculty appointments at the University of Washington School of Medicine in its Department of Bioengineering, and at Seattle Pacific University, where he is the director of the Brain Center for Applied Learning Research.
   
   Here's the basic theme of the book... our schools and businesses are designed in direct opposition to how our brains work - let's challenge that and try out some new ideas - let's leverage our current understanding of the human brain to start over. This theme is covered through presentations of his 12 "Brain Rules" - each covered in depth in its own chapter of the book.
   
   Dr. Medina takes hardcore brain research and theories, and boils them down to easy-to-grasp ideas. Even though the book is written to the layperson, it is not dumbed down - it's just clearly written and supported through illustrative observations and stories. Some of his stories will have you laughing, others will leave you crying, and all will start you thinking. The last chapter will make you want to tear down our entire public school system.
   
   Here are the actual rules (also listed on the book's website):
   Rule #1: Exercise boosts brain power.
   Rule #2: The human brain evolved, too.
   Rule #3: Every brain is wired differently.
   Rule #4: We don't pay attention to boring things.
   Rule #5: Repeat to remember.
   Rule #6: Remember to repeat.
   Rule #7: Sleep well, think well.
   Rule #8: Stressed brains don't learn the same way.
   Rule #9: Stimulate more of the senses.
   Rule #10: Vision trumps all other senses.
   Rule #11: Male and female brains are different.
   Rule #12: We are powerful and natural explorers.
   
   Each rule is introduced through an observation or story to gain the reader's attention (DELIGHTFULLY and creatively illustrated further on the DVD - lead actor Brandon Whitehead is hysterical!); then clarified and supported through a discussion of the research; and finally applied to today's learning, business, and sometimes even home environments with "ideas" for how they could be implemented.
   
   Note: If you're like me (and I know I am), you love to see references embedded in your text - Dr. Medina intentionally reduces distraction by not including them within the book. The references are, however, meticulously listed by rule and by fact on the website (you may have to do a little digging, but they're in there).
   
   Make sure everyone you know who has a voice in our school system reads this book!



5. Brain Rules is a fascinating book. Medina has taken the complicated brain and made it understandable and interesting with an engaging narrative. Not only did this book cause me to look at my own life and "brain health" differently, it caused me to see the world differently. Reading Brain Rules is like finding the missing puzzle piece to some perplexing life questions. That sounds like hyperbole, but for me it was true.
   
   The chapters on memory are particularly sticky. Have you ever wondered why someone remembers an event you were both at so differently than you? The memory is so crystal clear, you are sure you are right and they are wrong. It turns out, you are probably both wrong. When you read the memory chapters, you will understand how and why you remember certain things, and why you don't. In the process you will learn how to remember more effectively. You will also begin to call into question the accuracy of some of your most precious memories.
   
   Don't worry, the book is not science gobbledy gook. Medina use stories and visuals to make the concepts understandable to everyone. And in each chapter he gives advice and practical applications for education and business.
   
   It's the best book I've read thus far in 2008.

5 comments about The SPEED of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything.

1. It's been a thought-provoking and interesting book so far. It asks a lot of questions of me that dig pretty deep into my thoughts and feelings - and motivations.
   
   Am I trustworthy? Do I have true, real honesty? Can I be relied upon? Do I surround myself with others who are trustworthy? Am I working on my ethics and honesty to be a better and happier person?
   
   Lots of things about ourselves totally hinge on trust. I had never looked at it from these points of view before. It's an interesting subject and one that I hope will help me get more out of life.
   
   I spend lot of time thinking about integrity and I don't think I do enough work to improve it in myself.
   
   Perhaps now is as good a time to do so as ever!



2. It's a very healthy, specific, adequate and thorough work.
   My psychological training has been more towards analysis, geshtalt and other therapeutic branches, but books like this one make me think more into cognitive-behavioral way, and for good. They make a lot of sence for sane individuals who are eager to work in order to improve their quality of life.
   And it IS easy to follow.



3. After I read this book, I gave it to the head of our department. He wants to meet to discuss using it in our department. Sorry I don't have time to write more.



4. This book is very applicable in every relationship that you have. Trust affects not only business, but also your personal relationships with your family and especially with your own self worth and self confidence. This is truly a profound book. It really goes hand-in-hand with another book I read called "The Book on Mind Management" by Dennis Deaton.



5. A friend and collegue called me from a, "Speed of Trust" workshop, and said that I had to read this book - it was so great. My friend is a decent writer himself, and I trust his judgement. However, he did not actually read the book. He attended the workshop. From that I conclude that the workshop and concepts are probably good, which is why I gave it three stars instead of two. Nevertheless, I could not get past the poor writing. I struggled through the first two chapters and had to set the book aside.

5 comments about The 48 Laws of Power.

1. Why do you need this power in the first place? Here is a quote from 7 Habits, "Standing near the graves of famous people, we understand all the silly wars in which they fought."
   
   I will not be surprised if this book is used as a required reading in terrorist camps to show the "real Americans". Clearly, it is against democracy, Christianity, and all other values.
   
   Read 7 Habits by Covey instead.



2. Very smart book. Has some very unique and useful tools. I don't agree with everything but I like the book and I will use some parts. I try to treat people as I would have them treat me....The Golden Rule. But with trouble makers or bad people this book can be very helpful.



3. I'm pretty into morality but I quite like this book. But If you're not weary of someone who recommends deception (as the author does) you deserve to get suckered. Some of the rhetorical techniques he employs include writing in the style of that wise blind guy who knew everything in Kung fu, it doesn't work at all once you've seen an interview with him. Also putting a number (48) in the title makes it sound very scientific, I'd bet he has no idea if there really are exactly 48 laws of power.
   
   Still I would not say all the laws are immoral or even amoral as the blurb claims. Some, such as not hanging around with people who drag you down and "assuming formlessness" are about self defence not predation. You can pick and choose according to your code of ethics or lack thereof.
   
   It probably should have come with a warning. The philosopher Alfred Whitehead said Machiavellian techniques work well for about 15 years. One of the practical problems with deception is reality does actually exist and cannot be kept at bay forever. When it is revealed it could ruin you or an entire economy (as when vast numbers of people lie to get loans).
   
   Still an interesting book not only for the unscrupulous.



4. Only two types of people have been and will be attracted to reading this book: those who hope it's about one thing and those who know it's about the other. The former belong to the timid, powerless, low-self esteem majority looking for the ultimate guide to gaining respect and admiration from their peers. The latter belong to the unscrupulous, dare I say sociopathic ever-growing minority whose end goal is to win at everything against everyone by any means. Once the book has been read and fully digested, one of two conclusions will be reached. The first is a sudden awareness of what a perfectly outstanding tool they hold in their hands and the limitless rewards it can afford them. The second is an absolute disgust and horror at what a dangerous volume this is and the malicious behavior it outright encourages. Interestingly, the timid are not always the ones repulsed and the ruthless are not always the ones aroused. The wave can break either way.
   
   Shortly after this book was published, I happened upon it in a bookstore and knew I had to have it. A blaze of energy electrified my body and pounded through the deepest recesses of my mind. I was on fire, I couldn't put it down and yet I knew I could never share it with anyone, the way a child might hide away their favorite toy. In truth I became obsessed. I had to learn and then master every element of every law and take supreme authority over every aspect of my life. Indeed, this book, The 48 Laws of Power, became my bible, the most passionate conquest I had ever sought to undertake.
   
   Within its pages I met with the reflection of every gruesome bully and every merry manipulator I had ever known. Their power was uncanny and yet so mysterious, mostly because I could never fathom how such apparently absent minds could lay so cool yet strike with such venom. It was awe-inspiring, and I had to come to terms with their secrets. The secrets that earned them respect from their enemies and fear from their admirers. The secrets that won them the most buxom women, who always appeared so entranced by even their rudest and most audacious displays. "How could they get away with everything so smoothly?!" I had wondered. "How could they be so desirable?!" I had thought. "HOW?!"
   
   Well...here is how. It is simple.
   
   Some people are given to a heredity and/or an upbringing that nourishes what is commonly considered 'bad' behavior. Certain genes as well as certain parenting styles perpetuate an attitude of unruliness which leads in its purest variety to utter contempt for anyone else's thoughts, feelings, or needs. Their minds develop without a balanced set of experiences, leading them to deduce that the information they received must indeed be correct. This is also applicable to those who suffer violence in their youth, even if that violence is not carried out physically. The fact remains that whatever world with which one is presented is accepted as unmitigated truth. 'Bad' behavior is usually viewed by such a person as normal. Thus selfishness, cruelty, and manipulation are seen as strengths, while compassion, kindness and humility are seen as weaknesses.
   
   Surely there are a bevy of other factors that cannot go without mention. High intelligence, a pleasing appearance, a particular talent, et cetra can all act as lauchpads for immorality if similar virtues in others go unrecognized as being equal. This sense of equality is what it all comes down to, in fact. The very idea of power assumes that another cannot or should not be in a position to where the perspectives of both can be viewed as equally valid. On the one end is the person who is possessed by their own image, on the other is the person who believes that they have no intrinsic worth at all. The two feed off of each other in a sadistic/masochistic symbiotic relationship. The point then comes to bear that a person who believes himself powerful only remains so long as the other believes the same thing. Put two people who both see power as the ultimate attainment and you have the setting for nearly every meeting in the business world. From here, only two things can happen. One party will cave, allowing the other to dominate, or neither party will cave, effectively precipitating resentment and rage in both. The former leads to a continuation of the cycle while the latter leads to war.
   
   This book is extremely well-researched and exquisitely written, which is why I still give it three stars. But I warn you now to be aware of your true intentions. Buy this book if you don't care about anyone but yourself, and it pleases you to see another man crumble. Do not buy this book if you have even the slightest interest in saving yourself from years of unnecessary struggle. Remember that the wave does break both ways, and you do not know who you may become if you toss your ethics in the wastebasket. Needless to say, I was the timid one who was sick of being overlooked, but in the end, it was this book that I tossed into the wastebasket. Your call.



5. Everyone can see through a snake, if not now then eventually. You can fool some people for a short time, but never for long- and the cost is that you need to always be acting and presenting such a lie to the world that it isn't worth it. Think about the people who you know that are using these principles.. dont you see how you would honestly rather see them fall down an elevator shaft than be successful? Well- everyone will eventually feel that way about YOU if you read this book and apply it. Perhaps that should be its title- "Ruin everyones trust in you, and make people want you to fall down an elevator shaft". Confucius calls moral power "te" and says that it can only be gained by virtuous action. It is the only real power and it can only be based in what is virtuous. If you do what is good, then people will see it and reward you. If you do what is evil and pretend it is good, people will eventually see through you and want revenge for you treating them like a fool. If you want real power, realize that if you do these things you will end up thinking the world is always out to get you, with no power whatsoever. If you really want power, learn that virtue IS power, and if you fight THIS ACTUAL LAW, and subscribe to these fake ones, you will end up quite pathetic- always lying to present someone you are not out of insecurity about who you really are. In short you will end up with absolutely no power but very lonely if you do these things.