Monday, October 15, 2012

Book Review | It Worked for Me: In Life and Leadership By Colin Powell, Tony Koltz


I can only tell you that this book is a great read for a person in need of a little guidance on working hard, paying your dues, being part of a team and being a strong individual. Not only was I impresses with the writing and the information in this book. I immediately wanted to send it to my nephew. I recently finished this book It Worked for Me: In Life and Leadership By Colin Powell, Tony Koltz. I thought I was going to read a military book but it was MORE.

Share a Book Rating | 5 - Loved it! Can't wait to share with you! Read below will have details about the story so here is your warning ** SPOILER ALERT **

Book Review | Setting & Character

Colin Luther Powell is an American statesman and a retired four-star general in the United States Army. He was the 65th United States Secretary of State, serving under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2005. Mr. Powell states in this book book "the importance of really knowing who you are and how to always be yourself to why I put an emphasis on knowing and taking care of others, especially those who are your followers." (from his letter on amazon.com)


Book Review | A little research

It starts with his Thirteen Rules. I would say a great reminder to those that have a little doubt. My favorites #2, #4 and #11. 

CLP's Thirteen Rules:
  1. It ain't as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning.
  2. Get mad, then get over it.
  3. Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it.
  4. It can be done!
  5. Be careful what you choose. You may get it.
  6. Don't let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.
  7. You can't make someone else's choices. You shouldn't let someone else make yours.
  8. Check small things.
  9. Share credit.
  10. Remain calm. Be kind.
  11. Have a vision. Be demanding.
  12. Don't take counsel of your fears or naysayers.
  13. Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.

From Amazon Product Description

"It Worked for Me is filled with vivid experiences and lessons learned that have shaped the legendary public service career of the four-star general and former Secretary of State Colin Powell. At its heart are Powell's "Thirteen Rules"—notes he gathered over the years and that now form the basis of his leadership presentations given throughout the world. Powell's short but sweet rules—among them, "Get mad, then get over it" and "Share credit"—are illustrated by revealing personal stories that introduce and expand upon his principles for effective leadership: conviction, hard work, and, above all, respect for others. In work and in life, Powell writes, "it's about how we touch and are touched by the people we meet. It's all about the people."
A natural storyteller, Powell offers warm and engaging parables with wise advice on succeeding in the workplace and beyond. "Trust your people," he counsels as he delegates presidential briefing responsibilities to two junior State Department desk officers. "Do your best—someone is watching," he advises those just starting out, recalling his own teenage summer job mopping floors in a soda-bottling factory.
Powell combines the insights he has gained serving in the top ranks of the military and in four presidential administrations with the lessons he's learned from his immigrant-family upbringing in the Bronx, his training in the ROTC, and his growth as an Army officer. The result is a powerful portrait of a leader who is reflective, self-effacing, and grateful for the contributions of everyone he works with."

Book review | What I have to say

I am looking forward to one day meeting Mr. Powell. He is now on my list of people to meet. I admire his sense of patriotism, family values and work ethics. We all start in situations that are not by choice it is within yourself that we need to take hold of and make our destiny. Knowing your mission and your goals are the first signs of taking those steps to a healthier future.

Mr. Powell is a great storyteller and his wisdom is one to share. As I did. I also appreciate how he didn't need to bring his family into the forefront - by all means we don't need another reality show.

Do you have a favorite person you would like to meet after reading a book? Please share.

Keep Turning those pages!
Happy Reading,

 Jennifer

No comments:

Post a Comment

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...