Every one of us has a favorite movie of all time. When we watch it, we always get something new from it or see something in a different way. It might be at Christmas, or maybe some other holiday, but we enjoy that film over and over again. It never has mattered how many times we have seen it. And we appreciate everything about it from the music to the acting; it is a bona fide classic.
The same is very true about the Dale Carnegie’s important contribution to leadership and relationship, How to Win Friends and Influence People. For almost 77 years, every aspect of the book is well worth a reread one section at a time. The techniques, strategies, and leadership principles are essential to reaffirming what each of us must do in an organization to get it better.
If asked to summarize the book into one basic sentence or phrase, after a little thought, it could very well be: a good person can be a good leader. Here are eight basic truths from the book that dates back to 1936 that still ring so true in 2012. Simple in concept and thickly dipped with reality, they can make any Michigan business a better one.
- Always have the desire to Learn.
- Continually focus on others.
- Get results every day.
- Competition always improves success.
- Improve on the ability to build relationships.
- Be a positive influence on every one.
- Be a realist about making mistakes. They happen.
- Look for happiness in every aspect of your life.
Next time when there is a little time set aside, curl up with a good book and be just a little better leader. There is always time to watch that movie later.
Check out the Leadership Advantage program scheduled for Tuesday March 27 in Novi.
This post is brought to you by the good folks at Dale Carnegie Training of Michigan, providers of professional development and management development courses and information in Michigan. We would love to connect with you on Facebook and Twitter @MICarnegie
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