Faulty Logic

I don't really like to read self-help and inspirational books. Before, I was like, who needs them anyway? One day, our boss forced me to read Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People". Yeah, you heard it right. I was forced to read a book with a corny title. Little did I know that this book with a corny title could change my view on things, life, and relationships. Hell, it even changed my life.

I would like to share to you a summary of the book. These simple yet powerful words became my constant guide in doing things.

Fundamental Techniques for Handling People:

• Don't criticize, condemn or complain.
• Give people a feeling of importance; praise the good parts of them.
• Get the other person to want to do what you want them to by arousing their desires.

Six Ways to Make People Like You:

• Be genuinely interested in other people.
• Smile.
• Remember and use people's names.
• Encourage others to talk about themselves and listen to them.
• Discuss what the other person is interested in.
• Make the other person feel important.

Twelve Ways to Win People to Your Way of Thinking:

• Avoid arguments.
• Show respect for the other person's opinions. Never tell someone they are wrong.
• If you're wrong, admit it quickly and emphatically.
• Begin in a friendly way.
• Start with questions the other person will answer yes to.
• Let the other person do the talking.
• Let the other person feel the idea is his/hers.
• Try honestly to see things from the other person's point of view.
• Sympathize with the other person.
• Appeal to noble motives.
• Dramatize your ideas.
• Throw down a challenge.

Nine Ways to Change People Without Giving Offense or Arousing Resentment:

• Begin with praise and honest appreciation.
• Call attention to other people's mistakes indirectly.
• Talk about your own mistakes first.
• Ask questions instead of giving direct orders.
• Let the other person save face.
• Praise every improvement.
• Give them a fine reputation to live up to.
• Encourage them by making their faults seem easy to correct.
• Make the other person happy about doing what you suggest.

Isn't it ironic? Before I really hate self- help books. Today, a self-help book tops my list of favorite books...