📘 Book note: The Magic of Thinking Big

I am still reading this book—expect more notes to come!

Book summary

How to think big

Many people think small, which means that there is less competition for a very rewarding career than you think.
Our success is measured by the size of our thinking.
The greatness human weakness is self-deprecation, which means: selling ourselves short.
Know thyself is something philosophers have said for thousand of years, but most people know only thy negative self. We make our value small.

Measure your true size

Exercise for measuring your true size:

Determine you 5 chief assets. Assets such as education, intelligence, appearance, personality, initiatives, attitude etc.
Under each asset, write the names of 3 persons you know who have achieved large succes but who do not have this asset to as great degree as you.
You will find that you outrank many successful people on at least one asset. Conclusion: you are much bigger than you think you are. Never sell yourself short.

4 ways to develop big thinker vocabulary

Use big, positive, cheerful words and phrases to describe how you feel. If you for example, say that you are tired then you make yourself feel worse. Become known as a person who always feels great.
Use bright, cheerful, favourable words and phrases to describe other people. Make sure that you always compliment the absent third party.
Use positive language encourage others complement people personally at every opportunity. It can be a compliment on their work achievements, their families or their appearance.
Use words to outline plants to others. For example, instead of saying “whether we like it or not, we have got a job to do” But instead, say “Here is some good news we face a genuine opportunity”

See what can be, not just what is

Big thinkers train themselves to see not just what is but what can be. Here is how you can practice adding values to:

Things: Look for ideas to make things worth more. For example ask yourself how can I add more value to this house or this business.
People: As you move higher in organisations, more of your responsibility becomes “people development.” Look for ways to help your subordinates be more effective.
Yourself: ask yourself daily what can I do to make myself more valuable today? Think of yourself not as you are but as you can be.

What does it take to make a good speech?

Effective public speaking relies on knowledge of the topic and not getting bogged down by minor technical details.
Successful speakers focus on conveying their main points clearly and are driven by a genuine interest in sharing their message.

What causes quarrels?

Quarrels often stem from petty thinking and minor issues.
To avoid conflicts, focus on what truly matters and ask yourself first "Is it really important?"

3 ways to help yourself think about the trivialities:

Focus on important goals, like achieving sales, fostering peace in marriage, and helping employees grow.
Avoid reacting to minor issues by asking, "Is it really important?"
Pay attention to significant matters and don't get sidetracked by trivial details.

Coming soon.