Bringing Out the Best in People: How to Enjoy Helping Others Excel
By: Alan Loy McGinnis
Reflection by: Samantha Nicklaus
Why I read it?
This is a book that a mentor gave to me years ago and has sat on my shelf collecting dust. Inspired by the culture of learning at Foster Victor, I decided to give this one a read!
What is it all about?
McGinnis writes many books in the “self-help” realm, but this one is a bit more focused on work and culture in the workplace. The book’s real emphasis is on helping reach larger goals by encouraging individuals with their goals and personal development. The book is broken up into sections that address topics like how to best acknowledge others as individuals versus groups and encouraging those around you to work towards their full potential.
What caused me to pause?
One of the biggest things that stood out to me was McGinnis’ focus on seeing the potential in those around you, as opposed to their current level. It sounds counterintuitive, given how often the phrase
“Don’t fall in love with potential” is thrown around, but I think McGinnis makes a good point. I know from personal experience; I have noticed myself wanting to live up to expectations someone has of me rather than trying to “prove” to someone that I have potential. I think McGinnis phrased it best when he said, “Treat a man as he appears to be, and you make him worse. But treat a man as if he already were what he potentially could be, and you make him what he should be.”
How will this book change my habits or influence me?
I have taken aspects of this book into account in my personal life. One of the things that McGinnis stresses is positive consequences over negative consequences. I have been trying to adjust a few of my habits at home and as silly as it sounds, switching my mind set from considering the punishment for not doing something to a reward for doing it has been hugely helpful. This small change has impacted not only my motivation, but my consistency. I’m looking forward to finding ways to implement this in my professional life as well!
Add this to your reading list if…
You are in any type of leadership position or would like to be in the future. McGinnis provides sound, practical advice that is generic enough to apply across multiple roles or industries, but specific enough that it feels actionable.
Pickle Rating: I would give this book a 4 out of 5!
