Salad Ahmed Halane – Assessments – International Institute for Global Leadership

As a Man Thinketh
Assessment by Salad Ahmed Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The main idea that this book conveys and author wants to communicate to the readers about the topic of thought is the ability of positive thinking. The author of this book demonstrates that thinking can have both negative and positive sides and impacts. Negative thinking can have bad impact on the person and as community while positive thinking can have positive impacts on oneself and as a community as well. The author expresses and takes as an example that thinking is gardening your mind with negative and positive cultivations. To have good life is mandatory that you cultivate your mind with positive thinking. It is better we see well in every think instead of bad. With this habit you will see the world differently and have good impact of yourself and others. By thinking positively you can shape your future and surrounding circumstances in your favor and guide your life on what you desire not where it takes you without your will.
Finally, James Allen narrates in this book that by using positive thinking you can perfect yourself and help others achieve greatness. It is better you take control of your thinking and lead your mind to the right choices, decisions, and live a happy life.

2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.

i. Character

A person is literally what he thinks, his character being the compete sum of all his thoughts; this basic idea inspired me during my reading of the book. The sum of our daily thoughts is literally what shapes and guides our thinking. The more you think positively the more you will notice good impact in your life. In my personal experiences, there were many instances where I constantly felt the effect of thinking positively and negatively as well. As a person you should plant beautiful seeds in your thinking gardens to live a better life and accomplish great achievements in your life.

ii. They themselves are makers of themselves; thoughts are what encourages or discourages the person.

The character of thinking in a positive way will be help you make you self a great person while the negative thinking will get you in the wrong direction and will eventually lead yourself to bad circumstances. This important for me because I have seen many occasions where by my good thinking and bad thinking both have affected me tremendously and changed my life to both good and bad situations.

iii. The humans are the master of thought, the molder of character, and the maker and shaper of condition, environment, and destiny.

All depends on individual thoughts that will have tremendous impacts on person’s destiny. Positive thinkers will develop in life while the negative thinkers will always stuck in these thinking. After reading this book, my thinking has shifted to positively. I regularly watch my mind and direct it to right way of thinking in a good ways.

iv. Choice

By the right choice and true application of thought, the human ascends to the divine perfection; by the abuse and wrong application of thought, he descends below the level of the beast. Between these two extremes are all the grades of character, and the human is their maker and master. Humans should always apply the clear thoughts to raise in their life in the perfect manner. I have experienced how clear thinking of mind would take you to a higher levels if practiced always.

v. Man’s mind

It may be likened to a garden, which may be intelligently cultivated or allowed to run wild; but whether cultivated or neglected, it must, and will, bring forth. If no useful seeds are put into it, then an abundance of useless weed-seeds will fall therein, and will continue to produce their kind. In regard to this idea that the author expresses it is important to always cultivate your mind with positive and good thoughts to enable ourselves good opportunities to grow our mind with clear thinking.

vi. Helping

You cannot help a weaker man unless he is willing to be helped. This is literally true when it comes to helping weaker and disadvantaged persons. Unless they are willing to be helped it’s quite difficult to lift them up and help them with what so ever they need for.

vii. Circumstances

Circumstances does not make the man; it reveals him to himself. The human being will truly reveal himself if put under pressure and different circumstances. So it is true in sense that man is made by the circumstances rather it reveals the true self of his.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

These ideas and lessons have helped to in my daily life practical ways in different ways. For example, during my study of the book, I was able to reflect myself and see whether my thoughts were positive and the impact it had on me at the moment. Actually, after finishing reading the book, I started to watch my thought and guide it into the direction that I want to make destiny of myself in the future. Now, I try my best in everyday life to cultivate my mind with clear and positive thoughts and help others change their negative thinking to have good outcomes of this life.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“No such conditions can exist as descending into vice and its attendant sufferings apart
from vicious inclinations, or ascending into virtue and its pure happiness without the
Continued cultivation of virtuous aspirations; and man, therefore, as the lord and master
Of thought, is the maker of himself the shaper and author of environment. Even at birth
The soul comes to its own and through every step of its earthly pilgrimage it attracts those combinations of conditions which reveal itself, which are the reflections of its own purity and, impurity, its strength and weakness.”

The human being will truly reveal himself if put under pressure and different circumstances. So it is true in sense that man is made by the circumstances rather it reveals the true self of his.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

There were some few ideas that was somehow I did not grasp it well during my reading of this book. “Following the inmost desires, aspirations, thoughts, by which he allows himself to be Dominated, (pursuing the will-o’-the-wisps of impure imaginings or steadfastly walking The highway of strong and high endeavor), a man at last arrives at their fruition and Fulfillment in the outer conditions of his life. The laws of growth and adjustment Everywhere obtains.” Like this idea which I don’t understand and grasp it well. I could have disagreed with it if I could have grasped it well enough. It would be better if the institute arrange peer-to-peer/mentor-mentee online programs for the students to discuss the big ideas.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Yes, the book did contain some exercise and assignments for the reader to complete. I have completed most of them. Among the completed exercise are how are you using your thoughts, is it positively or negatively? Where are you now with your thoughts? I have worked on exercises while I was reading the book. In where are you now with your thoughts exercise, I have analyzed myself promptly to start positively while paying much attention to my general thoughts.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

Nothing to comment here.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 8
B. How helpful were the contents? 9
C. How easy was it to understand? 10
D. Would you recommend it to others? 7
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 8

Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Assessment by Salad Ahmed Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The main ideas that the author Richard Bach is trying to convey and communicate to the readers in this book is that Jonathan seagull has followed his heart to the end he has did a lot of sacrifice for his life. “Most gulls don’t bother to learn more than the simplest facts of flight how to get from shore to food and back again. For most gulls, it is not flying that matters, but eating. For this gull, though, it was not eating that mattered, but flight. More than anything else. Jonathan Livingston Seagull loved to fly.” Richard Bach aims to explain that sacrifices and trusting your instincts while believing your heart is important in life. He also to tries to shade some light on the myth of that seagulls never fly in dark. You need to regularly practice and aim to develop new skills to reach where ever it’s that you aim with struggles.

i. Being Alone.

Jonathan Seagull spent the rest of his days alone, but he flew way out beyond the Far Cliffs. His one sorrow was not solituile, it was that other gulls refused to believe the glory of flight that awaited them; they refused to open their eyes and see. He learned more each day. He learned that a streamlined high-speed dive could bring him to find the rare and tasty fish that schooled ten feet below the surface of the ocean: he no longer needed fishing boats and stale bread for survival.

This idea is important for me as it teaches person to struggle in life to reach his destiny. It’s better to be alone than with a lot of friends that are not willing to help you explore your greatness and achieve important milestones in your life. Some people prefer to get things done alone while others will like to accompany with other people in doing everything.

ii. Flight

During my study of the book, one idea that catch my attention was where Richard Bach explained that “Most gulls don’t bother to learn more than the simplest facts of flight that is how to get from shore to food and back but for Jonathan Livingston seagull it is not eating that matters it is flight.” This idea was personally important for me to deeply understand it’s essentially crucial for us to not only think about what we will eat. Anyone can do it, but not everyone will pay much attention and learn the simplest facts of the fight to be able to swim and advance in any difficult situations. “For a long time Jonathan forgot about the world that he had come from, that place where the Flock lived with its eyes tightly shut to the joy of flight, using its wings as means to the end of finding and fighting for food. But now and then, just for a moment, he remembered.”
It’s literally worth mentioning here that this idea reminded me the importance to let the fight go for sometimes and relax. You need to fight for some reasons and encourage yourself in accomplishing success in difficult situations.

iii. You didn’t need faith to fly, you needed to understand flying. This is just the same. Now try again.

In this quote from the book, the main idea communicated by the author to the readers is that you need firstly to understand well whatever it’s that you want to achieve. Knowing precisely what you want to achieve will help your find the shortest way possible with the minimum timeframe. It is always better to try and learn from it if you fail to get there in the first time. There is always window for trying it gain and gain until you accomplish it perfectly.

iv. I wonder about that, Jon,” said Sullivan standing near. “You have less fear of learning than any gull I’ve seen in ten thousand years.” The Flock fell silent, and Jonathan fidgeted in embarrassment.

This idea was among the great ideas that impressed me in my study of this book.

v. We come from known place and come to another place which was exactly alike. You will forget where you come from and your origins.

This idea outlines the fact the you should live at your present and forget about your past.

vi. Thinking of your past experiences will negatively impact your outcome and impair your current productivity as well. You should life your moment and focus on it.

This idea has helped me to change my thoughts and focus on my current moments instead of thinking my bad experiences in the past. You don’t need to worry of the past nor the future, only focus on now.

vii. Concentrate on your everyday small improvements to achieve bigger goals in the long-term.

You should also learn from your past experiences and apply the valuable lessons learnt in your current and future activities. A month went by, or something that felt about like a month, and Jonathan learned at a tremendous rate. He always had learned quickly from ordinary experience, and now, the special student of the Elder Himself, he took in new ideas like a streamlined feathered computer.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

These ideas detailed in question two of the assignment helped me get to know myself well and my current positions. These have broadened my thinking of life. While I was answering the question under these ideas I had to think widely and concentrate real improvements of myself and others. Helping other will enable you to see your true self and discover many interesting things in your life.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“Each of us is in truth an idea of the Great Gull, an unlimited idea of freedom,” Jonathan
Would say in the evenings on the beach, and precision flying is a step toward expressing our Real nature. Everything that limits us we have to put aside. That’s why all this high-speed Practice, and low speed, and aerobatics and his students would be asleep, exhausted from the day’s flying. They liked the practice, because it was fast and exciting and it fed a hunger for learning that grew with every lesson. But not one of them, not even Fletcher Lynd Gull, had come to believe that the flight of ideas could possibly be as real as the flight of wind and feather.”

“Your whole body, from wingtip to wingtip.”

“Is nothing More than you’re thought itself, in a form you can see. Break the chains of your thought, and you break the chains of your body, too. But no matter how he said it, it sounded like pleasant Fiction, and they needed more to sleep.”

These quotes were among the important ideas I have come across while I was studying this book. It teaches to assume good in every situations. I am applying these wonderful idea in my everyday work and life.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

There were some few ideas that was somehow I did not grasp it well during my reading of this book. “Jon, you were Outcast once. Why do you think that any of the gulls in your old time would listen to you now? You know the proverb, and it’s true: The gull sees farthest who flies highest. Those gulls where you came from are standing on the ground, squawking and fighting amongst themselves. They’re a thousand miles from heaven – and you say you want to show Them heaven from where they stand! Jon, they can’t see their own wingtips! Stay here. Help the new gulls here, the ones who are high enough to see what you have to tell them.” He was quiet for a moment, and then he said, “Like this idea which I don’t understand and grasp it well. I could have disagreed it if I could have grasped it well enough.”

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Yes, the book did contain some exercise and assignments for the reader to complete. I have completed most of them. As you read the book its better you practice on these exercise and apply the main ideas conveyed in it and throughout the book.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

Nothing further to comment here.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 9
B. How helpful were the contents? 8
C. How easy was it to understand? 9
D. Would you recommend it to others? 7
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 8

Keys to Success
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

Thought, desire, faith, self-suggestion, and knowledge are just a few of the concepts that the author is trying to convey to help the reader achieve their goals. What the rich do to succeed is revealed in this book. To qualify as wealthy, he explains the criteria. A person’s wealth extends beyond the things they own. Riches in terms of physical well-being, interpersonal connections, mental state, and general outlook on life, the wealthy have come to understand that the mind is the most potent weapon a person can wield. As a result, they put money into it. A muscle grows stronger the more it is used, just like a muscle grows stronger with exercise. According to Hill, anyone who follows his advice and puts it into practice will amass enormous wealth. These principles can be applied to any kind of goal, whether it’s monetary, professional, spiritual, or anything else.

i. When it comes to their success, these people were extremely focused.

Write down the steps you will take to become a millionaire and post it in a prominent place where you will see it every day if you have this goal in mind. It’s only after you’ve written down every detail of your strategy that you’ll be able to begin taking deliberate and unintentional steps toward achieving it.

ii. First and foremost, I must conquer my own mind in order to achieve any sort of success.

If I want to be wealthy or successful, I need to learn to control my fears, doubts, negativity, and procrastination.

iii. A group of people who share my vision and will motivate me to achieve my goal, such as a “Master Mind” or “team of experts.”

To be successful, this Master Mind group must be in harmony with me and have a different skill set that complements my own. Be in complete control of my thoughts; if I feed my subconscious mind with negative and poor thoughts, then negativity and poverty will become a reality for me. Whatever I want to accomplish in life, I must learn how to think in a way that leads me in the direction of that objective.

iv. I need to combine my thoughts and feelings to influence your subconscious.

To say, “I’m going to be a surgeon” and expect it to happen is unrealistic. I’ll have to concentrate and mix up my emotions as I say it if I want to persuade myself that I’ll succeed.

v. When submitting a job application, be specific.

It’s critical to begin climbing the corporate ladder as soon as possible. Make sure I apply for a specific role being as precise as possible instead of applying for any job. To be effective, I must clearly articulate what my goals are, how I intend to contribute to the company’s goals, and why the company should choose me over another candidate. As a result, I’ll be able to jump right into the thick of things rather than spending time and energy working my way up the corporate ladder.

vi. Successful people tend to make quick decisions and then change their minds slowly.

In this way, their Master Mind group will not be influenced by people outside of it once they have decided.

vii. Learn about the people I’m surrounded by.

If I’m doing well, they’ll feel bad about it. These individuals will never run out of things to say or things to say about me. If I want to succeed, I must filter out the thoughts of these toxic negative people and only process the comments of those who truly want me to succeed.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

The ideas in Question Two of the assignment will assist me in overcoming my fears. Hill tells the story of a warrior who sailed to a battle that was most likely lost before it even began. When he arrived on the scene, he ordered his soldiers to set the boats on fire. One option remained: either conquer or perish. Their victory in this supposedly hopeless conflict defied all expectations. Consequently, if one wants to succeed in any business, one must eliminate all possible points of retreat. Keeping a burning desire to win in mind is the only way to achieve success. I also need a clear goal, a burning desire to obtain my desired outcome and a clear path to get there to be successful. It is important for me to remember that the greatest skyscrapers and the most ingenious inventions all began as dreams

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“Capitalistic society guarantees every person the opportunity to provide service and to collect riches in proportion to the value of the service.”

Out of this magnificent quote I got two things. To begin, he believes that “every person has the opportunity” and that nothing not your race, gender, sexual orientation, or social class should stand in the way of your success. Because the market doesn’t lie, “collect riches in proportion to the value of the service” was the second thing that caught my eye in that quote. We all benefit financially from the services we render.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

During my reading of this book, I had a hard time grasping a few concepts. “There is no plan for poverty. It is self-sufficient because it is a fearless and ruthless warrior. Riches are reticent and reticent people. They need to be “swayed” in some way. Though I don’t fully understand or grasp this concept, I find it fascinating. If I had been able to understand it, I might have been able to disagree with it.
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

There were some exercises and assignments for the reader to complete in the book. I’ve finished most of them. To get the most out of the book, it’s a good idea to practice these exercises and apply the book’s main ideas while reading.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

Nothing to comment in here.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 9
B. How helpful were the contents? 10
C. How easy was it to understand? 9
D. Would you recommend it to others? 8
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9

PsychoCybernetics
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The author is trying to convey oneself-image and how it has a significant impact on your life. Whether or not you succeed in navigating life’s twists and turns will depend on how you view yourself. If you’re serious about improving yourself, you’ll have to confront your ingrained notions about who you are and what you’re capable of first. Graduating college opens a world of opportunity, but it also brings with it a plethora of risks. The world of possibilities can be exhilarating, but it can also be crippling. Too many choices and not enough guidance can lead a young adult astray. Maxwell Maltz concluded that people’s lives were not fundamentally altered by his interventions.

i. A person’s success is built on a foundation of seven pillars according to Maxwell Maltz. Achieving success or failure isn’t a matter of “finding” it or “coming to” it. Rather, your personality is the source of both failure and success.

ii. Different sets of elements are required to produce each.

First it all starts with a clear sense of direction. Everyone, like a mountain climber, has a desire to reach a specific objective. Rather than resting at the top, I should continue to the next peak. The second quality is comprehension. Fear, anxiety, and desire distort people’s sensory perceptions, which is why most failures occur. I can see two colleagues in conversation. As soon as you walk by, they take a pause in their conversation and look at you. However, it’s not likely that they were gossiping about me. Another illustration of how emotions can skew my judgment.

iii. Courage is the third essential success characteristic.

I can only achieve my goals if I have the guts to act on them. Taking calculated risks to support my ideas requires guts. Nothing gets done if I wait to act until you’re sure everything is perfect.

iv. Charitable people pay attention to the needs, dignity, and respect of all people, which is a fourth characteristic of successful people.

v. I must have self-esteem because I will never be able to move forward if I believe “I can’t do it.”

To put it another way, having a low opinion of myself is not a virtue, but rather a threat to my long-term success.

vi. Have faith in myself.

A sense of self-worth is built on the foundation of success, so it’s critical to remember my previous victories and to let go of the failures that threaten to undermine my self-esteem.

vii. Success rests on the foundation of self-acceptance.

I can’t get what I want in life if I don’t accept my flaws and weaknesses. A successful person’s personality is built on the foundation of these seven pillars.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

The above ideas in question 2 will help me understand myself-image as a mental blueprint that describes the type of person one is. Every person has one. All her past experiences, successes, and failures go into forming this self-perceived identity. Perceptions such as these are critical because people act in accordance with the person, they believe they are. To succeed, I must first accept the fact that you’re a failure. I’ll find ways to succeed if I consider myself successful, on the other hand; it’s not clear, however, why people form life-altering self-images. For example, for the most part, it’s for a good reason. When a person’s parents’ divorce, one may feel like a failure because she had a bad year in school, when an incident like this occurs in their academic career, some students quickly bounce back and return to the honor roll, while others become stuck in a self-image that tells them they are the type of student who always gets an “F.” In this way, whether a person’s self-image is positive or negative, everything else in their life is impacted by it. Another good example: An acquaintance of the author had a problem with his ‘ugly’ appearance; he felt that his nose was too large and his ears protruded. Because he was self-conscious about his appearance, he was unable to enjoy life to the fullest.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“God sees us as men and women in whom and through whom He can do a great work. He sees us as already serene, confident, and cheerful. He sees us not as pathetic victims of life, but masters of the art of living; not wanting sympathy, but imparting help to others, and therefore thinking less and less of ourselves, and full, not of self-concern, but of love and laughter and a desire to serve.”

This quote was important to me since many of us evaluate others solely based on their appearances. Instead, I am cripplingly insecure because of my own negative self-image. Because of this belief that I am spiteful toward others, I will retaliate by being spiteful in return. I can break the cycle if I change my negative self-perception.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

I didn’t grasp the idea of “Positive thinking” does indeed “work” when it is consistent with the individual’s self-image. It literally cannot “work” when it is inconsistent with the self-image until the self-image itself has been changed.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Yes, the book contains some assignments and most of them I have already finished. As I read the book, I understood that an optimistic outlook on the future is how most people define happiness. We believe that getting married or getting a better job will make us happy. Happiness, on the other hand, must be actively pursued right now. We must first understand that happiness is a state of mind, and that it is a product of our thoughts and attitudes. Anger and frustration are the antidotes to happiness, so if a driver honks at us, we’ll be unhappy because of it. Focusing on the positive and letting go of the negative can lead to a life of contentment and well-being.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

Nothing to Comment in here.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 9
C. How easy was it to understand? 10
D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10

How to Win Friends and Influence People
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

One of the book’s main ideas is that you can alter other people’s behavior by first altering your own. This book gives ideas on how to better understand people, become a more likeable person, improve your relationships and win the hearts and minds of your coworkers and customers.

i. Don’t criticize, condemn or complain

Don’t knock over the beehive if I want to collect honey. More often than not, criticism leads to resentment rather than a shift in one’s actions. It’s difficult for me not to be critical when I don’t agree with someone, feel they’ve done something wrong, or need to give someone negative feedback. This is because threats and punishments are ineffective in changing behavior.

ii. Make people feel important with curiosity

When it comes to interacting with others and myself, the most important thing I can do is make everyone feel valued. There is nothing worse than an office suck-up, and I don’t do this with false flattery or brown nosing. You can make someone feel important by showing interest in them, Carnegie claims. To show genuine interest, I will ask open-ended questions when I’m chatting with a coworker or at a networking event.

iii. Appeal to the other person’s desires

There Is Only One Person Who Can Do This. Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes was Carnegie’s guiding principle before the term “empathy” was coined. I’ve found that the best way to persuade a potential customer to buy my product is to partner with them and agree to their idea; instead of explaining why it will work, I explain how it will benefit them.

iv. Become genuinely interested in other people

As opposed to focusing on how I can impress others, I’ll focus on how they can impress me. They can tell me about their achievements and I can check in on their personal and professional progress. Let me be the office cheerleader or a supporter of people I know.

v. Talk in terms of the other person’s interests

Look for people’s “hot buttons” is one of my favorite hobbies. People light up when they talk about these subjects. All of my coworkers’ favorite topics of conversation should be well-known to me. What are they reading when they’re not at work? What piques their interest? My goal with them is to learn as much as I can from them by encouraging them to talk about the things they are most passionate about when we are together. Using this tactic is the best way to get someone on my side and show them that I care about theirs.

vi. Remember people’s names

Whenever I hear my own name, I feel like I’m a part of something special. Making others feel valued and heard is as simple as using their name frequently to demonstrate that you remember it. There is also the challenge of remembering names when they are spoken. A system for remembering people’s names when I hear them is what I’m going to do. Dale Carnegie summarizes this nicely: “The average person is more interested in his or her own name than in all the other names on Earth put together.”

vii. Be a good listener by encouraging others to talk about themselves

In my mind, it’s important to be a good conversationalist by coming up with witty stories and funny jokes. In order to be taken seriously, I must pose thought-provoking questions in an effort to elicit an honest response from the other person. This does not imply that I must remain mute while you speak. In my mind, listening is an active process.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in my daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

With the book’s main ideas, I now have a positive way of interacting with others that I can use to improve my own outlook. I intend to surround myself with people who make me feel confident, optimistic, and upbeat. I’ll also identify the people in my life who aren’t good for me and work to improve or distance myself from them. My outlook on life is influenced by everything around me, including colors and images. I intend to pay more attention to the decor in my home and office. Display photos and images that encourage me to think positively and keep a positive frame of mind. When I’m trying to cultivate positive thoughts, inspirational quotes and messages are a great help.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got my attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

This quote really struck me:

“My world is nothing more than the thoughts you have about my experiences.”

Of course I’m dealing with real issues in my life. Some of them, like debt or a serious illness, may take a few years to resolve. However, it is entirely up to me as to how I respond to these issues. But my attitude is something I can change in a split second, and I’m not going to let anything stand in my way.

“My world, my reality, is only shaped by my thoughts about what I’ve experienced.”
There are many ways to interpret a near-miss with a car, such as if I leave my house tomorrow morning and am almost hit by one that breaks at the last second. It is also possible for me to look at this experience as a wonderful gift, and live my life to the fullest, appreciating every moment and being thankful.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

“Genuinely smile”
In the entire book, this is the only tenet that causes me some consternation. A smile is the best way to say, “I like you,” according to Carnegie. I’m happy when I’m around you. As soon as I saw your face, I was delighted. When it comes to professional situations, a smile isn’t always necessary. Yes, a warm welcome! Acceptance of someone’s acknowledgement absolutely! Preventing the bad, of course! However, you don’t have to wear a fake smile around the office. It is perceived as unprofessional and insincere.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Yes, I did, and I’m resolving to always see the silver lining in any situation. It’s made me happier and more appreciative of the many blessings I’ve received in life, rather than dwelling on what I don’t have.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

There was, and it was when I began to practice gratitude that I began to see my life in a new light. I pay attention to the good things in my life, the things that bring me joy, and the random acts of kindness that others show me. Gratitude journaling is a great way to cultivate a positive attitude each day. You should keep track of all the good things that are going on in your life. Positive thinking will become second nature to me once I establish this one new habit.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 10
C. How easy was it to understand? 10
D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10

Success through a Positive Mental Attitude
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The main idea of the book, Success through a Positive Mental Attitude, is a classic self-improvement book that identifies what Napoleon Hill learned from interviewing hundreds of successful people and sharing how their outlook on life helped them rise to the top of their respective fields of endeavour.

2. What were the seven ideas that were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas, followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. I will use personal examples from my own life.

These are the seven ideas that are important to me and definitely going to change my life.

i. The greatest thing you can do to attract success is to have a habitually positive mental attitude.

So, what exactly does it take to be great? Does it have to do with the right circumstances, timing, or individuals? That’s not the case; none of this is within my power. A positive mental attitude, or PMA, is all I need to succeed. There’s a direct correlation between how much you accomplish and how well you do in life. Developing this ability of positivity is like a magnet that attracts metallic objects. I have a positive outlook on failure and don’t let it get the best of me; instead, I look at it as an opportunity. It is important to remember that every failure is only a step in the right direction.

And it is the courage to try that comes along with this self-assurance in the face of failure. It’s even a catalyst for wanting to try new things and being hungry for self-improvement. It ignites a flame of hope inside of you, illuminating and warming you all the while.

ii. Change my perspective to see the opportunities that always come from difficult situations.

When it comes down to it, achieving success boils down to solving problems. Just take a look at some of the most intelligent people in history. All of their great accomplishments can be traced back to a desire to find new ways to solve a particular problem. Obstacle perception is entirely influenced by our state of mind. We have a negative mental attitude (NMA) if we give up every time we face a challenge. However, if I focus on the positive aspects of what’s happening, I’ll have the ingredients for a PMA that I can use to resolve the problem. A PMA can be achieved by embracing the opportunity to learn from adversity. If we’re being honest, it’s a chance for us to show the world what we can do. When things get tough, people with a PMA don’t give up; they just try harder.

iii. You are more likely to achieve my goals if you use autosuggestion to connect them with my subconscious.

It may appear that the only way I can accomplish anything is through deliberate action, but this is not the case. Our desires, fantasies, and actions are all influenced by our subconscious minds.
What Hill calls “autosuggestion” allows me to access this power. Using this ability, I am able to harness the power of my subconscious mind to influence everything I do and, more importantly, think.

There is no reason why I cannot use this to improve my health and well-being regardless of my goal. For example, a year from now, I want my life to be like this. For example, I might write about how much money I’d like to have. Repeat this phrase twice a day, every day, until it becomes a reality for me. At first, it may seem strange, but my subconscious will begin to look for ways to fulfil my desires soon after I start thinking about it. Perhaps it will start looking for opportunities that appear out of nowhere, like new business ventures. Even if it doesn’t work, I’ll give it a shot in the hopes of boosting my disposition. By focusing on the good things in my life, my PMA muscle will get stronger over time.

iv. Don’t be afraid of changes.

Ascend the corporate food chain and collect my just reward. Challenge these negative feelings and sensations by allowing them to exist and challenging my trustworthiness. When I realise that those thoughts are entirely my own creations, it will be too late.

v. Being an indispensable member

Even though NMA will miss deadlines, the real problem is far more serious. Due to my lack of passion, they earn less and live less fully as a result of my contributions. “Golden Arrow” is my goal, so I’ll go for it and raise my expectations.

vi. Beyond the concept of mental near-sightedness

Because I’m short-sighted, I’m unable to see things from a different perspective. It means I’m suffocating under the weight of my naivete. Focusing only on the immediate task at hand will do me no good if I am unable to see the bigger picture. To put it another way, it tells me that I must face the causes of this phenomenon.

vii. Imagine my life free of worry to become less concerned about the future.

Worrying less is easier with this Meta hack: In the future, I want to be a worry-free person. My current worries will fade away if I just imagine that it is possible for me to live without them.
When I’m stressed, I’m more likely to get heart disease, arthritis, and other illnesses that reduce my lifespan. As a result, I will do everything in my power to avoid it. I imagine myself a few months or years from now, free of the worries that currently plague me, and I’ll feel a lot better when I open my eyes. In my mind, I refer to it as “draining my mind” and it’s especially useful right before bed because it allows me to put more positive thoughts into my subconscious mind.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

For both my personal life and the betterment of the world, how can these ideas or lessons be applied in a real-world context? If this is the case, then how? According to the above ideas, a positive mental attitude is one of the most effective ways I can help myself and my life dramatically improve. Things aren’t always peaches and cream, but finding the silver lining in the dark clouds is what keeps me cheerful and healthy.

Everyone with whom I come into contact will benefit from the inspiration I get from the ideas listed above. I’ve seen people’s lives change for the better simply by making the decision to get better and cultivating a positive outlook. No matter where I am in life, it is never too late to make a change, and a shift in perspective can have a profound impact.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got my attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

This quote really struck me:

“My world is nothing more than the thoughts you have about my experiences.”

The difficulties in my life are, of course, real. Some of them, like debt or a serious illness, may take a few years to resolve. However, I have complete control over how I respond to these challenges. I may not be able to solve those issues with a single press of a button, but I can certainly alter my perspective on the matter at hand.

“My world and my reality can only be shaped by what I think about everything that happens to me.”

You might interpret the fact that you were just about to be hit by a car tomorrow as a bad omen and spend the rest of the day walking around terrified of everything. It’s also possible for me to look at this experience as an incredible gift, one that I should be grateful for and embrace for the rest of my life with open arms.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas that you disagree with, and, if so, why?

It’s important to cultivate a positive outlook on life, so I’m on board with everything in the book. More vitality, better health, better prospects for success, and a more contented existence are just a few of the benefits of adopting a positive frame of mind. Your outlook on life has a far greater impact than you might think.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Yes, I did, because a positive outlook can lead to a healthier lifestyle. I’m going to try harder to put on a good face, be more approachable, and maintain my composure under pressure. People tend to be more open to trying new things with a positive outlook. With more confidence and a sense of humour, I will see the silver lining in every cloud. Having a positive outlook is contagious, and I can’t help but spread it to those around me. As long as I keep a good attitude, I will treat other people with respect and not say bad things about myself or other people.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

Negative emotions and thoughts have a negative impact on my ability to think clearly and make decisions. The only thing on my mind when experiencing a negative emotion like fear is what I am afraid of. When I am in a dangerous situation and my first instinct is to flee for my life, I can use this to my advantage. As long as I’m afraid of failure, rejection, or ridicule, it’s not a good idea to take risks that could change my life for the better. In the same way, negative emotions like jealousy and resentment hold true for them as well.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

Awaken the Giant Within
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The central idea of Tony Robbins’ book, “Awaken the Giant Within,” is a manual for taking control of our lives, from our mood to our finances to our relationships. In order to unravel the mysteries of one’s identity, the book delves deeply into the field of personal development.

i. Set my standards

“If you don’t set a baseline standard for what you’ll accept in your life, you’ll find it’s easy to slip into behaviours and attitudes or a quality of life that’s far below what you deserve.”

This concept is crucial because it teaches me to never compromise or fall into the trap of failing to set clear standards. I’ll probably end up in a less than ideal situation if I do that.

ii. Make a decision

“Making a true decision means committing to achieving a result, and then cutting yourself off from any other possibility.”

This concept is crucial because I should make a definite decision and follow through with it if I want to lose weight or improve my financial situation. Making a choice means deciding to pursue my objective and refusing to let anything—including my own flaws or limiting beliefs—keep me from doing so.

iii. Profound knowledge

“Profound knowledge is any simple distinction, strategy, belief, skill, or tool that, the minute we understand it, we can apply it to make immediate increases in the quality of our lives.”

In my own search for the truth, I am always on the lookout for profound knowledge that, once found, has the ability to completely alter my perspective and the caliber of my life.

iv. Your decisions and perceptions determine your life

“Know that it’s your decisions, and not your conditions, that determine your destiny.”

It’s never the events of our lives, but the meaning we attach to the events; how we interpret them that shapes who we are today and who we’ll become tomorrow.”

This concept is crucial because, if I find myself in an unpleasant reality, I must take the appropriate actions to change it. It’s up to me to find ways to make my situation better, no matter how awful the circumstances may be.

v. Pain and pleasure

“Everything you and I do, we do either out of our need to avoid pain or our desire to gain pleasure. If we link massive pain to any behaviour or emotional pattern, we will avoid indulging in it at all costs. We can use this understanding to harness the force of pain and pleasure to change virtually anything in our lives. But if we fail to direct our own associations to pain and pleasure, we’re living no better than animals or machines, continually reacting to our environment, allowing whatever comes up next to determine the direction and quality of our lives. The truth is that we can learn to condition our minds, bodies, and emotions to link pain or pleasure to whatever we choose. By changing what we link pain and pleasure to, we will instantly change our behaviours.”

My desire to experience pleasure and avoid pain drives almost everything I do. I can make better decisions, gain a better understanding of what motivates me, and reshape what I associate with pain and pleasure when I am aware of this fundamental principle underlying how I function.

vi. Problems are not permanent

“Achievers rarely, if ever, see a problem as permanent, while those who fail see even the smallest problems as permanent.”

In order for me to succeed, I must realize that issues are transient and that they can be dealt with by taking action. I will accept the challenge I face and work to find a solution rather than wallowing in it.

vii. Happiness is borne in growth

“In order to succeed and be happy, we’ve got to be constantly improving the quality of our lives, constantly growing and expanding.”

I am much more content when I am constantly learning, developing, and pushing myself. My life will become miserable if I don’t move forward and stop becoming more stagnant.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

As suggested above, I need to identify a major objective that motivates me and will inspire me to put in the lengthy, arduous hours of work required to succeed. I’ll start by figuring out Why I want to accomplish my goals in order to build a compelling future for them. I might then begin to enjoy advancing toward my objective at that point. Enjoy the small victories, cherish the journey as much as the goal, and take pleasure in the continuous, unceasing improvement. I visualize myself after achieving the objective. Keep in mind that my goal is to improve our mental and emotional states so that I can not only think of solutions, but also take action on them. My goal is not to ignore life’s problems. I must always keep in mind that decision-making is ultimately about defining values. Living up to my highest ideals and consistently acting in accordance with what we believe our life is truly about are the only ways I can experience lasting happiness. While many people are aware of what they want, they are unsure of who they want to be.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got my attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“The key to wealth is to be more valuable. If you have more skills, more ability, more intelligence, specialized knowledge, a capacity to do things few others can do, or if you just think creatively and contribute on a massive scale, you can earn more than you ever thought possible.”

This is significant to me because it demonstrates that if I add more value, I will get paid more. Therefore, if I find that I’m not earning as much money as I’d like, I should look for ways to increase my value, whether that means developing new skills, abilities, knowledge, or creative abilities.

“Making a real decision is about being determined to get a particular result and to refuse any other possibility.”

My future is decided in the instant I make my choice. It is the day a smoker decides to stop smoking, not the day he or she smokes their final cigarette. I want to demonstrate that I already possess this ability to make decisions. After that, you can exercise this power just like a muscle. I need to make as many choices as I can in order to make wise ones. However, in our society, the managers those who make decisions are those with money. Making decisions is crucial to my success, and I have the power to do so.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas that you disagree with, and, if so, why?

“Any time you sincerely want to make a change, the first thing you must do is to raise your standards.” Taking action after making a decision is essential; if I don’t act after making a decision, then it wasn’t my decision; it was just a wish. For instance, many people believe that starting tomorrow, they will eat healthily, exercise, read books, and other things. However, the following day, they return to their lazy lifestyle.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Yes, I did. This is because I realized that, as the book explained, believing has a lot of power and can alter not only my physical but also my emotional state. Because so many important things that are required and needed to grow in your life directly or indirectly depend on your beliefs, like my decisions, my actions, and my ability to do anything, it is really important for me to use this tool, which has unlimited power, in the right and proper way to change your life.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

Yes, there was, and that was the difference between importance and urgency. My ability to feel successful in both my personal and professional life will directly depend on my ability to distinguish between importance and urgency. I might overwork myself and not feel or receive the rewards I want if I consistently pay attention to what’s urgent rather than what’s important.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 9
C. How easy was it to understand? 8
D. Would you recommend it to others? 9
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9

Creating your Path through Leadership
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The founder of the International Institute for Global Leadership, Michael, contends that using the power of your thoughts to control your life is the key. He also offers advice on how to develop the mindset and philosophy of a successful person.

i. Discovering my Leadership Potential

I was pushed to alter my perspective and develop a constructive outlook on life. I’m motivated to push myself outside of my comfort zone and aim high. I no longer feel like a victim of circumstance because I see the world as a place full of opportunities. It takes time and effort to realize my leadership potential. It is something I continue to work on and reveal over time. The desire to use the opportunities and resources at hand to change the world is where it all starts.

ii. Be intentional

While some people accidentally become leaders, the majority must actively seek to identify and nurture this potential. The kind of impact I want to have on the world must be deliberate on my part. Being intentional entails recognizing the problems that people face and deciding to put forth all the effort necessary to find and offer workable solutions. When all I want to do is give up, only my inner strength will keep me going. No matter the distractions, decide to remain steadfast in my commitment to the cause. Average leaders and transformational leaders can be distinguished by their internal drive to change the world. The people who create long-lasting solutions are the men and women who have the determination to change the world and never give up.

iii. Immerse myself in the optimum environment

One of my best decisions ever in terms of leadership discovery and development was enrolling in graduate school. This program helped me identify the kind of leader I wanted to be and the people I wanted to have a positive impact on. Being around other leaders who are passionate about fostering positive influences is one of the quickest ways to unlock my leadership potential because I will unavoidably pick up some of their energy. Iron sharpens iron, so I should associate with people who share mu viewpoints. My vision and the realization of my potential are greatly influenced by the people I spend the most time with because they will push me to set higher goals and develop my capacities.

iv. Seek a mentor

Being around leaders is one thing, but learning from them is quite another. Throughout my academic career, I had the good fortune to be mentored by outstanding men and women. The life-changing lessons I was taught have sustained me throughout the years. Because of these mentors, I am who I am today. Without their guidance and encouragement to “go beyond,” I would not have realized what I was capable of.

v. Embrace my uniqueness

Michael Lightweaver reminded me that the best version of me was the greatest leader I could ever be. That changed everything because I started striving to be the best version of myself after that. Since there can only be one authentic version of each leader, I do respect and admire them all, but I don’t aspire to be any of them. I wasn’t made to be a copy; I was made to be an original. Many young people mistakenly believe that they can practice until they get it right. When I am aware of who I am and what makes me special, I can only truly help others. Being aware of my personality, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, experiences, and skills that set me apart from others is part of knowing me. The kind of leadership style I exhibit is determined by who I am. When I start to walk in the authenticity of who I am, my leadership potential will be fully revealed. Be myself, and people will want to emulate me.

vi. I am Special

Because of my growth in developing a positive self-image, this has helped me to understand that I am not just an existence but also a very special part of the unfinished work of creation. It is revolutionary because my worldview has been positively adjusted, my behavioral patterns have changed to fit a success-driven, goal-oriented lifestyle, and my mind has been reoriented. Because it is better experienced than imagined or narrated, the positive mental impact that the book has had on me cannot be fully summarized in essay writing.

vii. Self image

My perception of myself has changed, and it is now a healthier one. I now think of myself as a creator, a builder, and a blessing to my loved ones, close friends, society, and the entire world. I value my contribution to creation’s unfinished business highly. If I hadn’t read the classic book, this perception would not have been readily made clear to me, nor would it have been developed consciously and thoughtfully. Since finishing this book, I have been practicing upholding and maintaining a higher sense of healthy self-image by living intentionally, improving what I can change, and accepting what I can’t change because, as we all know, self-acceptance leads to self-improvement; practicing self-responsibility; self-assertiveness; living intentionally; planning; and upholding a strong sense of purpose and personal integrity. This is due to my self-awareness and my personal belief system, which I have adjusted to be different from what the majority believes to be true of me and for me.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

In light of the aforementioned concepts, I make an effort to surround myself with experts who are more skilled and knowledgeable than I am, especially in fields or roles where my knowledge is not as extensive. They offer a fresh perspective on the situation, so I consult with them whenever I have to make a difficult choice. I consult my close friends when making a personal choice. I look for various points of view in both situations. This enables me to have a more comprehensive understanding of all the factors and questions that must be taken into account when making that choice.
4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got my attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“I learned that the Universe operates in accord with our individual and collective beliefs and attitudes.”

This is significant to me because it demonstrates that a group of people’s beliefs are the culmination of the knowledge, experience, culture, values, attitudes, meanings, hierarchies, religion, notions of time, roles, spatial relations, concepts of the universe, and material objects and possessions that they have accumulated over the course of generations through individual and group endeavor.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas that you disagree with, and, if so, why?

No, because I concur with Michael’s viewpoints.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Yes, I did. Whenever I have to make a significant decision, I also make a thorough list of the advantages and disadvantages. I am forced to consider the situation from a variety of angles by this discipline. While the process frequently results in a choice that I knew in my gut was the right one, it also makes clear to me the sound reasoning behind my initial “gut feeling.” It has helped me learn to believe in my own instincts.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

There were no magic tricks or quick fixes to success, but there were some. But if you put in the effort, accept change, and value the perspectives and knowledge of the smart people around you, you will end up making more wise decisions than mistakes. That is how you get promoted time and time again, in my experience. That is the path to leadership.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 9
B. How helpful were the contents? 8
C. How easy was it to understand? 7
D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10

Maximum Achievement
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

This comprehensive summary of the ideas from Brian Tracy’s book “Maximum Achievement” explains that the quality of your thoughts correlates with the quality of your life. The ideas reveal how exercising control over your thoughts can enhance your sense of power, purpose, and direction, thereby equipping you with the means to access your latent potential.

These are the most important Ideas I got from the book and are as follows:

i. Peace of Mind

How well I am doing in life is typically measured by how much inner peace I experience. I only experience inner peace when I am living according to my highest life values and deepest convictions. If I compromise my values for any reason, my peace of mind will suffer first.

ii. Happiness is your birthright.

It is the focal point of my existence. It should be my life’s overarching objective to ensure that I have this inner peace. What is the point of achieving success if I cannot find inner peace? When I am completely free of the destructive emotions of guilt, fear, anger, doubt, resentment, and worry, I experience happiness and mental peace. Absent these emotions, I effortlessly enjoy mental tranquilly. In this situation, the key to happiness and mental tranquilly is to eliminate anything that is detrimental to my life, including the emotions listed above.

iii. Health and Energy

Health and vitality are my natural physical state, just as mental tranquilly is my natural mental state. My body has an inherent preference for health and vitality. It is what I DO that, over time, destroys my health and energy and causes me to lose my peace of mind. If I acquire all the material possessions in the world but lack mental tranquilly and physical health, I will derive little or no satisfaction from my accomplishments.
What does my ideal body look like? How would I like to feel on a daily basis?

iv. Loving Relationships

The fourth component is loving relationships, which consist of the people I care about, including my friends, family, and intimate partner. They are the true indicator of my progress as a human being. My happiness and unhappiness are largely determined by my relationships with others. Laughter, according to Brian Tracy, is a simple test to determine how well I am doing in my relationships. How often I laugh with the people in my life is a simple indicator of how well things are going. When a relationship deteriorates, laughter is the first thing to disappear. What is my ideal romantic pairing? With whom would I be? What would it look like?

v. Financial Freedom

When I am financially free, I no longer have to worry about money. Nearly 80% of the population is preoccupied with financial issues. This means that they are anxious about money from the moment they wake up until they go to bed. This is not conducive to my becoming the person I wish to be. Money is essential for achieving the first three components of success, as the majority of worry, stress, and anxiety, as well as lost peace of mind, is caused by financial stress. Financial stress and anxiety can lead to a variety of health issues. And, many relationship problems are caused by financial stress or problems. Money disputes are actually one of the leading causes of divorce. What would my ideal financial life entail? What impact would it have on my everyday activities? How would financial independence affect my life?

vi. Worthy Goals and Ideals

The need for meaning and purpose in life is my deepest subconscious drive. To be truly happy in life, I must have a sense of direction. I must be committed to something larger and more significant than you. I must feel that my life has meaning and that I am contributing to the world in some way. According to the definition of happiness, which is “the progressive realization of a worthy ideal,” I can only be happy if I am working step-by-step toward something that I find extremely valuable. What kinds of activities give my life the most sense of meaning and purpose?

vii. Self Knowledge and Self Awareness

To perform at my highest level, I must understand who I am and why I think and feel the way I do. This is essential to success and accomplishment. It is only when I am aware of something and begin to understand myself that I can begin moving forward in the different areas of my life. Brian believes that I should always be striving to grow, become better and learn. I can do this through reading books, attending seminars, or finding mentors/coaches.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in my daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

The aforementioned ideas will facilitate my success and personal fulfillment. When I feel that I am becoming everything I am capable of becoming, I experience fulfillment. One of the primary goals of Maximum Achievement and Brian’s books is to assist me in developing a fully integrated, fully functional, fully mature personality. I must master the habit and skill of being happy and optimistic in all circumstances, which is essentially a habit and a skill.

Creating my ideal life in every detail is the first step towards living the life I want. I will not be concerned with the process of achieving my goals; rather, I will concentrate on imagining my ideal future.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got my attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

This quote really struck me:

Brian stated: “Courage is not absence of fear; it is control of fear, mastery of fear.”

Obviously, I face real problems in my life. Some of these problems, such as debt or a serious illness, may take several years to resolve. Nonetheless, my response to these issues is entirely within my control. But I can overcome my fear in an instant, and I will not allow anything to stand in my way.

“The Law of Forced Efficiency says, “There is never enough time to do everything, but there is always enough time to do the most important things.”

There are numerous ways to interpret a near-miss involving a car, such as if I leave my house tomorrow morning and am almost struck by a car that brakes at the last moment. I can also view this experience as a wonderful gift and live my life to the fullest, appreciating and being grateful for every moment.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

“Talent Is Overrated.” The key to creating a wonderful future for myself is to think, plan, and work hard in the short term, and to have the discipline to do what is right and necessary before what is enjoyable and easy.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Yes, I did, and I have resolved to find the silver lining in every circumstance. Instead of dwelling on what I do not have, it has made me happier and more appreciative of the many blessings I have received in life.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

I began to see my life in a new light when I started to practice self-esteem. I focus on the positive aspects of my life, the things that make me happy, and the random acts of kindness shown to me by others. Journaling about self-esteem is an excellent way to cultivate a positive attitude daily. I should keep track of all the positive developments in my life. Once I develop this one new habit for great achievement, positive thinking will become second nature to me.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 9
C. How easy was it to understand? 8
D. Would you recommend it to others? 9
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9

Goals
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

Goals! With the help of specific goals, personal challenges, optimistic thinking, thorough planning, flexible deadlines for long-term objectives, and other strategies, author Brian Tracy demonstrates how to tap into the transformative power of goal setting to achieve any desired outcome.

One can achieve one’s goals by following these seven steps. These are general principles that apply to virtually every goal. It is always a lack of competence in one of these seven areas that I discover when I encounter someone who is not progressing toward their goals.

i. For starters, it is important to have well-defined, attainable, and written goals.

An objective cannot just be something like “to be happy” or “to have more money.” Any objective I set for myself must be something I can imagine and picture in my mind’s eye.

ii. Set targets that can be evaluated in terms of their success or failure.

They need to be amenable to outside inspection and evaluation. Having a lot of cash on hand is not the end goal. It is merely a wish or fantasy that is common to everyone. Earning a specific amount of money within a specific period, on the other hand, is a real goal.

iii. Objectives should be tied to specific times and dates, with clear deadlines and intermediate checkpoints.

There are no such things as impossible objectives, only impossible timetables. Once I have set a clear schedule and deadline for my goal, I work toward achieving my goal by that time. If I fail to complete the task by the due date, I give myself a new one and continue to work toward the goal until I do.

iv. Make sure my goals will test me.

I feel like they make me stretch a little bit. They must be much greater than anything I have ever done. Aim for a success rate of at least 50% when setting your objectives. This makes working toward the goals challenging, but I have found that when I push myself, I reveal many of my best qualities.

v. My aims should be consistent with my values and complementary to one another.

You cannot have goals that are mutually contradictory. I have met people who want to be successful in business but also want to play golf every afternoon. These two aims are incompatible and cannot be achieved simultaneously.

vi. I need to make sure that I am not neglecting any important aspects of my life by setting goals that are too narrowly focused on one area, such as work or business, money, family, health, religion, or community service.

If I want to be happy and fulfilled, my life needs to be balanced like a wheel so that it can spin freely.

vii. I need to live my life with a clear and compelling mission.

There needs to be one thing that, if achieved, would do more to better my life than anything else combined.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

Living without direction is like navigating through dense fog. No matter how powerful or well-engineered my car is, I will drive slowly, hesitantly, making little progress on even the smoothest road. When I settle on what I want, I can see clearly and direct all my efforts and resources toward achieving that goal. If I have a firm grasp on where I want to go in life and what I want to accomplish, I can put my foot down on the gas and speed toward my goals.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“A goal, however, is something distinctly different from a wish. It is clear, written, and specific. It can be quickly and easily described to another person. You can measure it, and you know when you have achieved it or not.”

One of the greatest lessons I have ever learned was imparted to me by my father when I was around 15 years old. This idea and its implementation have had a profound effect on my development as a person and on my capacity to enjoy life to the fullest. Because of this one concept, I am living a life I never thought possible.Since I was a teenager, I have used what I learned about the efficacy of goal setting to guide my actions every day, week, month, and year. The truth is that without a target to shoot for, it is impossible to make significant progress in any area of life. To run a marathon or run a successful business takes training and time, and nobody is suddenly prepared for either. The key to success in these endeavors is patience, hard work, and, most importantly, a well-defined end goal and strategy.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

“If you want to fly with the eagles, you can’t continue to scratch with the turkeys.”

He concludes that action orientation is the key differentiator between high and low achievers, and that “just do it” is the mindset we need to accomplish more. He discovered that the people with whom you keep company on a regular basis (your reference group) are a more significant factor than any other in determining your success or failure.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

I have repeatedly spent the day imagining the scene in my mind, along with the accompanying emotion. When I take the time to immerse myself mentally and emotionally in the process of reaching my goal, I am able to more thoroughly embed this information into my subconscious and super-conscious minds. Eventually, my goal becomes a powerful unconscious force motivating and inspiring my day and night.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

Because I thought the delegates in one of my recent development programs would benefit from reading this book, I shared copies with them.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 9
B. How helpful were the contents? 10
C. How easy was it to understand? 9
D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9

Goal Mapping: 7 Simple Steps to Fulfilling Your Dreams
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The author of this book intends to stimulate both hemispheres of the brain in order to produce effective results. It communicates on a subconscious level by means of metaphor and figurative language. From his gypsy roots to the entertainment industry to corporate training, education, and the self-help world, Brian has done it all. His central message of leadership through taking responsibility for oneself and being driven by a higher purpose has resonated with audiences in both the business and academic communities.

i. Dream

Something must reach into my mind and heart before I can start dreaming about it. Even just that one thing has the power to set my mind to wondering about accomplishments and success. Please wait if this is a new dream; I need some time to consider whether I want to make an effort to realize it. Here, I need to consider every scenario that involves me, my partner, my family, and anyone else with whom I have a close relationship. The purpose of this action is to help me confirm my aspirations.

ii. Believe

As I have already considered my own aspirations, you can rest assured that I will do everything in my power to help you realize yours. Some of you may think my goal is too lofty and impossible to reach. But do I realize how forceful the word “believe” actually is? If I trust you enough to try the impossible, then there is no way anyone can stop me. When I finally convinced myself that you can pull this off. I have already won the first round.

iii. Make a Plan.

The third step to realizing a dream is to formulate a strategy. I need a flowchart of the steps I need to take to realize your goals and the resources I will need. In addition, you should learn as much as possible about the dream as possible. Gain insight or encouragement from a person who has achieved success in the same field as mine.

iv. Discuss

I should consult my parents and/or teachers after planning. Engage them in conversation and see if they have any ideas or thoughts to share. The mentor knows my strengths and weaknesses, so it is crucial that we talk about the plan together. Given my strengths and weaknesses, my mentor will adjust the strategy accordingly. Finish my plan and make the necessary adjustments.

v. Follow your Plan.

As soon as I finish making my plans… I will get to work and implement them. Do not pile too much onto my plate, lest I become overwhelmed. Start slowly and gradually increase the workload to maximize productivity. The ability to switch gears quickly is a virtue, but when it comes to making your dreams come true, it is wise to take things more methodically, with the aid of mindfulness. The key is to take things slowly and steadily.

vi. Work on your plan and stick on it.

There will be times when you feel demotivated or when there are so many obstacles or distractions when I begin working on my plans and process. It is crucial that I keep my head down and push past all potential roadblocks at that precise moment. Staying dedicated to your strategy and putting in consistent effort will get you where you want to go. Once I commit to my strategy, there will be no stopping me from realizing my goals.

vii. Enjoy the process.

We should take pleasure in our accomplishments after all our hard work and perseverance has paid off. And remember to give yourself some credit for all your efforts.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

If you need help staying on track, pick up a copy of Brian Mayne’s Goal Mapping. To guide you through the process of goal mapping, Brian draws on his own experiences. Instead of simply telling you how to do something, Brian shows you how to do it alongside him. If you did not have a map, you would be completely lost.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“Achieving your goals does not have to be difficult. That is not why we set goals, though.”

To achieve success in this life, one must believe that they can accomplish their goals. I like to set goals, take my time getting there, and then enjoy the fruits of my labors. Achieving a goal requires first deciding what it is you want to achieve, then keeping that intention in mind, and finally doing whatever it is you feel is necessary to get you there.

“Man without purpose is like a ship without a rudder.”

The truth is that most of us face the greatest difficulty in achieving our goals because of the inability to define what it is we want. While everyone has dreams, few actually take the time to write them down and even fewer commit to the consistent, massive action that is required to make those dreams a reality.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

“Happiness is the best protection against a harsh universe.”

As a species, we have entered a new era. New times are here. There is a new truth on the horizon. There is a new standard of living expected of all of us, one that will likely persist for the foreseeable future. Bring out your inner warrior now!

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

The book ended with some homework assignments for the reader to finish. Most of them are now complete. These exercises and putting the book’s main ideas into practice as you read will help you get the most out of it.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

There is absolutely nothing worth mentioning here.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 8
C. How easy was it to understand? 8
D. Would you recommend it to others? 9
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 8

Nonviolent Communication
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

This book serves as an introduction to heartfelt, empathic communication and the practise of nonviolent communication. In this book, Marshall Rosenberg outlines a method for improving interpersonal and intrapersonal communication. It can be dissected into two sections: Using words with meaning and listening with compassion.

i. Giving from the heart: at the source of Non-violent communication.

Nonviolent communication (NVC) is a method of communication advocated by Marshall Rosenberg that seeks to foster open and honest exchange. To use this method of communication effectively, we need to focus on both our own and the other person’s word choice. Through the practise of NVC, we can learn to communicate our needs and listen to those of others.

ii. Communication that blocks compassion.

According to Marshall Rosenberg, there are four forms of alienating language that can get in the way of empathy: The practice of passing self-righteous judgments on those whose behavior falls short of our standards of decency. He is a slacker; she is a loose cannon. The second challenge is the temptation to draw parallels. Judging oneself harshly by holding up comparisons to others can make it difficult to have compassion for oneself and other people. The author lists the tendency to avoid taking blame as a third barrier to compassion. This prevents the individual from being fully aware that we are responsible for our own thoughts, feelings, and acts. One example is the phrase “I have to,” which is used far too frequently.

iii. Observing without evaluating.

Differentiating between observation and evaluation is the first step in nonviolent communication. Inadvertently switching between the two can lead the other person to interpret our words as criticism and react negatively. That Jean was late twice this week is an example of an observation; that she is chronically unreliable in terms of punctuality is an example of an evaluation.”

iv. Identifying and expressing feelings.

Identifying and expressing our feelings corresponds to the second stage of the process. Unfortunately, many of us have learned to work with our head rather than with our heart. For this reason, it is imperative that we relearn the language of the heart.

v. Taking responsibility for our feelings.

The third step in nonviolent communication is to take ownership of our emotions and learn what we truly need. The author proposes four possible responses to a message that is negative: Accuse yourself of wrongdoing, Stick the blame on someone else, try to put yourself in our shoes and try to understand our feelings and needs as well as the other person’s.

vi. Requesting that which would enrich life.

The fourth and final step is to put in a request. The writer suggests we adhere to the following standards: First, he suggests using language that motivates to act, rather than a negative message that leaves the receiver to infer our intentions. To be understood, the request must be sincere, brief, and specific. The more specific we can be in our request, the better our chances of success.

vii. Receiving empathically.

Marshall Rosenberg argues that to listen empathetically, one must listen not just with the mind but with the entire body. To truly hear the other person, we must “put ourselves aside.” Oftentimes, we want to help the other person by giving them our advice, comfort, or opinion when all they really need is to be heard. Listening attentively to another person’s observations, emotions, needs, and requests is the essence of empathic receiving in nonviolent communication.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

Connecting with each other and with ourselves through the lens of Nonviolent Communication will help my innate empathy to flourish. By training my attention on what we are observing, feeling, and needing as well as what I am requesting to enrich my life, it helps me reframe the way I express myself to others and how I listen to them. NVC encourages heartfelt giving and genuine connection through active listening, respect, and empathy. Those who practice nonviolent communication (NVC) do so for a variety of reasons: some want to be more compassionate with themselves, others want to deepen their personal relationships, and still others want to improve their professional or political interactions. To mediate conflicts and disagreements at all levels, NVC is used all over the world.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

The core of NVC, in my opinion, is the emphasis it places on the shared humanity we all share.

“No matter what else is going on,” Rosenberg writes, “we all have the same needs. Needs are universal.”

Rosenberg makes a compelling case that many of us lack “needs literacy,” which is to say, the education and linguistic resources necessary to identify, articulate, and fulfil our most fundamental wants and needs. Therefore, we rarely and poorly express our needs, we try to meet them in indirect and ineffective ways, and we frequently place the blame for our dissatisfaction on others. According to Rosenberg, we can open a world of new social possibilities by putting our needs first during contentious discussions.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

“You make me feel guilty.”

I do not agree with all of Rosenberg’s suggestions for how we should articulate our needs, but I do agree that focusing on and discussing needs more often is likely to be beneficial for most people, most of the time. In addition, the healing potential of universal forms of cognition and shared experience is illustrated by NVC’s compassionate and empathetic approach.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Although I have mixed feelings about Nonviolent Communication, I am glad I read it. It is entirely possible that, as I learn more about the world of interviewing techniques and begin applying them in practice, I will come to realize that one or more of my criticisms is unfounded.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

The short answer, in my opinion, is no. This is because human emotions are generated both internally and externally, making them inter-subjective phenomena. We need a way of talking about this reality that does not put 100% of the responsibility for any given emotion solely on the person who happens to be feeling it, because every person in any given social setting contributes to making the experiences of others who share that setting better or worse in all kinds of subtle and not-so-subtle ways. Rosenberg’s insistence that everyone must take full responsibility for their emotions is simplistic and unhelpful; he should have shown more nuance in his treatment of the topic.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 8
C. How easy was it to understand? 10
D. Would you recommend it to others? 9
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

This book’s main idea is basically a compilation of the seven pillars upon which the most prosperous and innovative individuals have built their success, as outlined in this book. When put into practise regularly, they can pave the way to a more satisfying and fruitful life for their users.

i. Be Proactive

There is no one else in charge but us. Ultimately, it is up to us to write our own life stories. Put this insight to use by becoming more assertive and accepting personal accountability for your actions. To start with, one of Covey’s habits is to take the initiative. Humans are unique among animals in that we have the capacity for introspection, for choosing our own perspectives on ourselves and our circumstances, and for exercising agency over our own efficacy.

ii. Begin with the End in Mind

Get going in the right direction. According to Covey, we can use our creativity to envision our ideal selves and our moral reasoning to determine the principles that will direct our actions. For the vast majority of us, keeping ourselves occupied is not hard at all. To succeed, we strive for raises in status, increased pay, and public acclaim. However, we rarely pause to consider whether or not the things we devote so much time and energy to are actually the things that matter to us. The second habit is to always keep the final goal in mind when making a start. Set your sights on a specific goal. This will help us prioritize our efforts and ensure that we are moving in the right direction.

iii. Put First Things First

We need to prioritize the most important tasks first if we are to successfully manage ourselves. As a team, we need the self-control to focus on what really matters, rather than just reacting to whatever comes up at any given moment. In the second habit, we talked about how it is crucial to know who we are and what we want. As we move into Habit 3, we will focus on acting toward these objectives and living in accordance with our highest values. We need the willpower to do things even when we do not want to maintain the discipline and focus necessary to reach our goals. Values, not desires or impulses in the moment, should guide our behavior.

iv. Think Win-Win

Effective interdependent relationships require a dedication to fostering Win-Win circumstances in which all parties involved come out ahead. The optimal strategy is to design interactions in which all parties benefit. In a Win-Lose or Lose-Win scenario, one party appears to get what he wants in the short-term, but the outcome has long-term negative consequences for the relationship between the parties. As a fallback, it is crucial to have the Win-Win or No Deal clause available. When we allow ourselves to consider the possibility of accepting no agreement, we free ourselves from the need to attempt to impose our will on others. We can be forthright in our attempts to get to the bottom of things.

v. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

Through empathic listening, we can learn about the other person’s experiences and perspectives before we offer advice, make suggestions, or otherwise interact with them.
Suppose you visit an eye doctor and explain that you have been experiencing blurred vision. He then removes his own glasses and hands them to you, saying, “Here, try these; they have been working for me for years!” You wear them, but they make matters worse. Chances of you returning to that optometrist? It is unfortunate that we all tend to do the same thing in our regular social interactions. Prior to determining the cause of the issue, we immediately begin treatment. There is no effort made to learn as much as possible about the issue at hand.

vi. Synergize

Recognizing and appreciating one another’s unique viewpoints can lead to the development of synergy, which in turn can lead to the discovery of previously unconsidered opportunities by means of expanded awareness and original thought. Habit

vii. Synergy, or “When one plus one equals three or more and the whole is greater than the sum of the parts,” requires us to bring together all the other habits to make something greater than the sum of its parts.

By sharing space, the roots of two plants can improve the soil and promote greater growth for both. Through cooperation, we can generate novel solutions and unlock previously unrealized prospects. This facilitates our group’s unanimous decision to rewrite the script.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

As a general rule, people are creatures of habit. It is important to recognize that some of these routines are beneficial, others are detrimental, and still others have negligible effects on your day-to-day life. Humans lack sufficient self-awareness and tend to repeatedly repeat the same inefficient patterns. Sometimes you accept them as fixed aspects of your character, and sometimes you have no idea they even exist. To those around me, these behaviors may seem obvious, but upon reflection, I realize that I have developed potentially harmful routines without giving them much though.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“Without doubt, you have to leave the comfort zone of base camp and confront an entirely new and unknown wilderness.”

Keeping these in mind will allow you to combine your wants with those of the other person or group. This way, instead of being on opposing sides of the issue, you can work together to examine the issue, identify all relevant needs, and develop a third option that satisfies everyone’s concerns. In the end, we undergo a change rather than a simple exchange. This solution satisfies both parties and strengthens the bond between them. By projecting an atmosphere of openness and safety, we can encourage others to open extensively and gain inspiration from one another’s ideas. Respecting and appreciating individuals’ unique mental, emotional, and psychological traits is what synergy is all about.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

“Not a day goes by that we can’t at least serve one other human being by making deposits of unconditional love.”

Although it is important to work on self-improvement in these four areas, it is equally important to be a positive scripter in the lives of those around you. By showing others that we have faith in them, listening to them with empathy, and prodding them to take initiative, we can motivate them to reach for the stars.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Covey’s book is not about breaking bad habits, but about creating good ones. Positive behaviors take time and effort to develop and home in most people. Positive behaviors are not always innate but can be taught. It usually requires more effort on your part than your typical bad habit. If you alter your routines, you can alter not only your perspective but also how others perceive you.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

Not really because I convey with the book.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 8
C. How easy was it to understand? 9
D. Would you recommend it to others? 9
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10

Leadership for Dummies
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

“Leadership for Dummies” by Dr. John Marrin is a book aimed at providing practical advice and guidance for people who want to become effective leaders. The book is written in a clear and accessible style, making it easy for readers to understand and apply the concepts presented.
The book covers a wide range of topics related to leadership, including the qualities of a good leader, how to develop leadership skills, how to communicate effectively, how to build and manage a team, and how to handle difficult situations. Each chapter provides a brief overview of the topic, followed by practical tips and advice for putting the concepts into practice.
One of the key themes of the book is the importance of self-awareness in effective leadership. The author emphasizes the need for leaders to understand their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as their own leadership style, to be able to lead others effectively.

Another important theme of the book is the importance of building strong relationships with team members. The author emphasizes the need for leaders to be approachable, empathetic, and good listeners, and to create an environment where team members feel valued and respected.
Overall, “Leaders for Dummies” is a useful and practical guide for anyone who wants to become a better leader. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the key concepts of leadership and offers practical advice for applying those concepts in real-world situations.

These are the seven ideas that are important to me and going to change my life.

i. The Importance of Vision

As a leader I must have a clear and compelling vision that inspires and guides the organization towards its goals.

ii. Communication

Communication is a critical skill to me as leader. They must be able to communicate effectively with their team, stakeholders, and customers to achieve their objectives.

iii. Building a High-Performing Team: Leaders must be able to build and manage a high-performing team. They should be able to recruit the right people, develop their skills, and create a positive team culture.

iv. Decision-Making: Leaders must be able to make tough decisions and take responsibility for the outcomes. They should be able to gather and analyse information, consider alternatives, and choose the best course of action.

v. Adaptability

Leaders must be able to adapt to change and be flexible in their approach. They should be able to anticipate and respond to changes in the market, technology, or other external factors.

vi. Ethics and Integrity

Leaders must demonstrate ethics and integrity in their actions and decisions. They should be honest, transparent, and accountable for their actions.

vii. Continuous Learning

Leaders must be committed to continuous learning and self-improvement. They should seek out feedback, learn from their mistakes, and stay up to date with the latest trends and developments in their industry.
Overall, these seven ideas can help leaders become more effective in their roles and lead their organizations towards success.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

This book is an excellent resource for anyone looking to develop their leadership skills. It contains a wealth of information and practical advice that can be applied in various settings, from the workplace to everyday life. Some of the key lessons learned from the book include:

Communication is key: Effective communication is critical to good leadership. Leaders need to be able to communicate their vision clearly, listen to feedback, and communicate their expectations to their team members.

Emotional intelligence matters: Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and manage your emotions and the emotions of others. Good leaders are emotionally intelligent and can empathize with their team members.

Lead by example: Leaders need to lead by example. They need to model the behaviour they want to see in their team members and set a positive tone.

Continuous learning is essential: Leaders need to be constantly learning and growing. They need to be open to new ideas, feedback, and different perspectives.

Trust is crucial: Leaders need to build trust with their team members. Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and leaders need to be trustworthy to earn the trust of their team.
Overall, Leaders for Dummies is an excellent resource for anyone looking to develop their leadership skills. The book provides practical advice and insights that can be applied in various settings and will help readers become better leaders.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got my attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

This quote really struck me:

“Leadership is not a position or a title, it is action and example.”

This quote emphasizes that leadership is not defined by one’s job title or position of authority, but rather by their actions and behavior. A true leader inspires and motivates others through their own example and ability to take decisive action. It emphasizes that anyone can be a leader, regardless of their position or title.
“Leadership is the ability to create a vision and inspire others to pursue it with passion and commitment.”
This quote highlights the importance of having a clear and inspiring vision for a leader. Leaders must be able to articulate their vision in a way that motivates others to work towards achieving it. This requires not only strong communication skills but also the ability to inspire and instil a sense of purpose in others.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas that you disagree with, and, if so, why?

“Great leaders are not born, they are made.” This quote challenges the notion that leadership is an innate quality that some people are simply born with. Instead, it suggests that leadership is a skill that can be developed and honed over time through education, training, and experience. This is an important message for aspiring leaders, as it highlights the importance of continuous learning and growth.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

Based on my research, this book “Leadership for Dummies” does include practical exercises and tips for readers to apply the concepts covered in the book. The book is intended to help readers develop their leadership skills, and the exercises are designed to help them practice and apply what they have learned.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

This book contains many important statements, but one that stands out is: “Leadership is not a title or a position, it’s a behavior.” This statement means that true leadership is not defined by someone’s job title or the position they hold within an organization. Instead, leadership is demonstrated through one’s actions, behaviors, and attitudes. A leader is someone who inspires and motivates others to achieve a common goal, whether they hold a formal leadership position or not. This statement also suggests that anyone can be a leader, regardless of their job title or position within an organization. By exhibiting the right behaviors and attitudes, anyone can inspire others and make a positive impact on their team and organization.
Overall, this statement reinforces the idea that leadership is a mindset and a way of being, rather than simply a job title or position of authority.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 8
B. How helpful were the contents? 9
C. How easy was it to understand? 10
D. Would you recommend it to others? 8
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9

Unlimited Power
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The main idea in “Unlimited Power” by Anthony Robbins is that individuals can achieve their goals and attain success by taking control of their thoughts, emotions, and actions. Robbins asserts that the power to transform oneself and achieve greatness lies within each individual, and that by mastering one’s own psychology, anyone can achieve extraordinary results in their personal and professional life. The book offers various tools and techniques for personal development, such as visualization, goal-setting, and NLP (neuro-linguistic programming). Robbins emphasizes the importance of taking action and developing a strong sense of purpose, as well as cultivating positive habits and beliefs to overcome limiting beliefs and fears. The book also explores the principles of human behavior and communication, and how to use these to influence and persuade others effectively. Overall, “Unlimited Power” is a guide for individuals who seek to unlock their full potential and achieve their dreams through self-mastery and personal empowerment.

These are the seven ideas that are important to me and definitely going to change my life.

i. The Power of Belief

This Idea emphasizes the importance of having a strong belief system in order to achieve success. My beliefs shape my reality and that my need to adopt empowering beliefs to reach my goals.

ii. Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)

Robbins is a proponent of NLP, a system of communication and personal development that aims to change the way people think and behave. I believe that NLP can help me overcome limiting beliefs and achieve their full potential.

iii. The Importance of Modelling

I believe that success leaves clues and that I can learn a lot by modelling the behaviours and strategies of successful individuals. I encourage readers to study the habits of successful people and to adopt those habits themselves.

iv. The Power of Visualization

I emphasize the importance of visualizing my goals in order to achieve them. I suggest that by creating a clear mental picture of what I want, I can program my mind to work towards that goal.

v. The Role of Physiology

Robbins argues that my physical state can have a significant impact on my mental state. I suggest that by adopting powerful postures and movements, I can change my emotional state and improve my performance.

vi. The Power of Focus

Robbins believes that focus is a key ingredient in achieving success. I encourage readers to identify their top priorities and to focus their energy and attention on those areas.

vii. The Importance of Action

Ultimately, Robbins believes that action is the key to achieving our goals. I encourage readers to take consistent, purposeful action towards their goals, and to never give up in the face of obstacles or setbacks.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

Develop a strong mindset: The book emphasizes that my beliefs and attitudes influence my behaviour and ultimately shape my destiny. By changing my limiting beliefs and cultivating empowering beliefs, I can develop a strong mindset that helps me overcome challenges and achieve my goals.

Master effective communication: Communication is crucial in personal and professional relationships. The book teaches practical strategies for improving communication skills, such as active listening, rapport building, and persuasive language patterns.

Manage emotions effectively: Emotions can either empower or derail us, depending on how we manage them. The book offers insights and techniques for mastering emotions, such as the power of focus, reframing, and the use of anchors.

Enhance motivation and energy: Motivation and energy are essential for achieving success and happiness. The book provides practical tips and strategies for boosting motivation and energy levels, such as setting compelling goals, practicing gratitude, and engaging in physical activities.

Create a plan for success: To achieve our goals, we need a clear plan of action. The book offers a step-by-step process for creating a plan for success, including goal setting, creating action steps, and developing a support system.

Overall, the ideas in Unlimited Power can help people develop a growth mindset, improve their communication skills, manage emotions effectively, enhance motivation and energy, and create a plan for success. By applying these practical ideas, individuals can unlock their full potential and achieve their goals in various areas of life.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got my attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

This quote really struck me:

“It’s not what’s happening to you now or what has happened in your past that determines who you become. Rather, it’s your decisions about what to focus on, what things mean to you, and what you’re going to do about them that will determine your ultimate destiny.”

This quote suggests that the way we interpret and respond to our circumstances and experiences is what shapes our future, rather than the events themselves.

“Beliefs have the power to create and the power to destroy. Human beings have the awesome ability to take any experience of their lives and create a meaning that dis-empowers them or one that can literally save their lives.

This quote emphasizes the impact of our beliefs on our perception of reality and how they can either help us or hinder us in achieving our goals.

“The quality of your life is a direct reflection of the quality of the questions you are asking yourself.”

This quote suggests that the questions we ask ourselves can either limit or expand our possibilities and ultimately shape our experiences and outcomes.

“Success is doing what you want, when you want, where you want, with whom you want, as much as you want.”

This quote defines success as having complete freedom and control over one’s life, including their time, relationships, and activities.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas that you disagree with, and, if so, why?

One quote from this that challenges reality is: “The only limit to your impact is your imagination and commitment.” This quote challenges the idea that there are external limits to what we can achieve in life. Instead, it suggests that our own thoughts and actions are the primary determinants of our success. By embracing our creativity and staying committed to our goals, we can break through perceived barriers and achieve our full potential.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

If you want to boost your memory and imagination, you just need to direct your gaze in the right way. Depending on my peripheral vision, I can enhance or dampen my capacity for imagination and memorization. Do any iconic pictures come to mind of someone deep in thought? Which way do that person’s eyes wander? I am sure you can picture at least one person looking up and to the right while holding their chin with their thumb and index finger. We actually do this when we are trying to think of something or remember it, which is why the image has become so iconic. It is automatic behaviour when we need to remember something, and it works wonders.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

How much time and effort you dedicate to implementing Robbins’ strategies will determine the quality of the results you achieve. He may not see himself as a motivational speaker, but his advice is psychologically sound and within reach of anyone who puts in the effort.
In and of itself, the motivation to act is priceless, and this is where Robbins’ work truly shines.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

The Law of Attraction
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The main idea of the book “The Law of Attraction” by Michael Losier is that the Law of Attraction is a powerful force that governs the universe, and that we can use this law to manifest our desires and create the life we want. According to the author, the Law of Attraction is based on the principle that like attracts like, and that by focusing our thoughts and emotions on what we want, we can attract those things into our lives.
Losier explains that the Law of Attraction is always at work, whether we are aware of it or not, and that it responds to the vibrations we emit through our thoughts, feelings, and actions. He provides practical exercises and techniques to help readers identify and clarify their desires, and to raise their vibration to match the frequency of those desires.
The author emphasizes the importance of focusing on positive thoughts and feelings, rather than dwelling on what we don’t want or what we fear. He also emphasizes the role of gratitude in attracting abundance and fulfillment and suggests that by expressing gratitude for what we already have, we can attract even more blessings into our lives.
Overall, the main idea of the book is that by understanding and practicing the principles of the Law of Attraction, we can tap into the unlimited potential of the universe and create the life of our dreams.

The Law of Attraction is a concept that suggests that we attract into our lives whatever we focus on, both consciously and subconsciously. The book “Law of Attraction” by Michael Losier explains how to use the Law of Attraction to achieve our goals and create the life we desire. Here are seven key ideas expressed in the book:

i. You are a magnet

The Law of Attraction works on the principle that I am a magnet, and I can attract someone into my life in what want to focus on. By focusing on positive thoughts and emotions, I can attract positive experiences, people, and things into my life.

ii. Use positive language

Your language and the words I use have a significant impact on what I attract into my life. It’s essential to use positive language, both in my thoughts and in my conversations with others.

iii. Visualize your desires

Visualization is a powerful tool for manifesting my desires. By creating a clear mental image of what I want, I can program my subconscious mind to attract it into someone life.

iv. Focus on what I want

The Law of Attraction works on the principle that energy flows where attention goes. By focusing on what I want, rather than what I don’t want, I can attract more of it into my life.

v. Let go of resistance

Resistance is the biggest obstacle to manifesting my desires. When I resist something, I create negative energy that repels what I want. Instead, learn to let go of resistance and trust that what I desire is on its way to me.

vi. Take inspired action

Manifesting my desires requires action. However, it’s essential to take inspired action, which means taking action that feels good and aligned with my desires.

vii. Gratitude is essential

Gratitude is a powerful way to attract more of what I want into my life. By focusing on what I am grateful for, I can generate positive energy that attracts more positive experiences and people into my life.

3. How will these ideas or lessons you in a practical way, both in my daily personal life and in helping me to create a better world? If so, how?

The Law of Attraction book gives the idea that the thoughts and feelings me put out into the universe will attract similar thoughts and feelings back to me. In other words, the Law of Attraction suggests that my thoughts and emotions are powerful forces that can shape my reality. Here are some ways in which the ideas expressed in the Law of Attraction can help me in my daily life:

Focus on what I want: One of the key principles of the Law of Attraction is that I attract what I focus on. If I constantly think about what I don’t want, I will attract more of the same. However, if I focus on what I do want, I will attract more of that into my life. By keeping my attention on my goals and desires, I will be more likely to achieve them.
Use positive affirmations: The Law of Attraction suggests that my thoughts and feelings are powerful tools for creating my reality. By using positive affirmations, I can program my mind to focus on what I want, rather than what I don’t want. For example, instead of saying “I don’t want to be broke”, I could say “I am financially abundant”.
Visualize my goals: Visualization is a powerful technique that can help me manifest my desires. By picturing myself in achieving my goals and experiencing the feelings associated with that success, I will be more likely to attract those experiences into my life. Try to visualize my goals in as much detail as possible, including the sights, sounds, and emotions associated with them.
Practice gratitude: Gratitude is an important part of the Law of Attraction. By focusing on the things I am thankful for, I will attract more positivity and abundance into my life. I will try to make a habit of listing things I am grateful for each day, whether it’s my health, my relationships, or my job.
Let go of negative emotions: The Law of Attraction suggests that negative emotions like anger, fear, and resentment can attract more negativity into my life. By learning to let go of these emotions and focus on positive thoughts and feelings instead, I will be more likely to attract positive experiences.
In summary, the ideas expressed in the Law of Attraction can be powerful tools for creating a more positive and fulfilling life. By focusing on my goals, using positive affirmations, visualizing my success, practicing gratitude, and letting go of negative emotions, I will be more likely to attract the experiences I want into my life.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got you attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“The Law of Attraction is always working, whether you believe it or not.”

This quote emphasizes the idea that the Law of Attraction is constantly at work, and that my thoughts and beliefs are constantly shaping my experiences. Whether I am aware of it or not, the Law of Attraction is always responding to my thoughts and emotions and bringing me more of what I focus on. This quote is important because it reminds me to pay attention to my thoughts and beliefs, and to consciously direct my attention towards what I want to create in my life.

“Whatever you are thinking about is literally like planning a future event. When you are worrying, you are planning. When you are appreciating, you are planning. What are you planning?”

This quote highlights the idea that my thoughts are like blueprints for our future experiences. When I worry or focus on negative outcomes, I am essentially “planning” for those things to manifest in my life. On the other hand, when I focus on positive outcomes and appreciate what I have, I am “planning” for more of that to come into my life. This quote is important because it reminds me that I have the power to choose my thoughts and direct my attention towards what I want to create in my life.

“Every person’s true desire is to be happy, and the ultimate goal for everyone is to find joy in their life experience.”

This quote reminds me that, at the end of the day, what I really want is to be happy and experience joy in my life. While I may have different goals and aspirations, ultimately these are all driven by the desire for happiness and fulfillment. This quote is important because it reminds me to focus on the things that truly bring me joy and fulfillment, and to let go of the things that do not serve me.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?

While the Law of Attraction may have some useful insights, there are also some ideas expressed in the book that are in disagreement with real life. Here are a few examples:
The Law of Attraction ignores the role of external factors in shaping our lives.
While my thoughts and emotions can certainly influence my experiences, they are not the only factors at play. My life is also shaped by external factors such as my environment, social context, and access to resources. For example, someone who lives in poverty may have a much harder time manifesting abundance through the Law of Attraction than someone who has access to financial resources and social connections. The Law of Attraction oversimplifies the relationship between thoughts and reality. The Law of Attraction suggests that my thoughts create my reality, but this is an oversimplification of a much more complex relationship. While my thoughts can certainly influence our experiences, they are not the only factor at play. My experiences are also shaped by my actions, my interactions with others, and the unpredictable events that occur in life.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

One of the most important aspects of this book is its practicality. Losier presents a step-by-step approach to using the Law of Attraction in my daily life, including specific exercises and techniques to help me focus my thoughts and feelings in a positive way. He also provides examples and anecdotes to illustrate how the Law of Attraction has worked for others in real-life situations.

Another key benefit of this book is its accessibility. Losier writes in a clear, straightforward style that makes the concepts easy to understand, even for those who may be new to the Law of Attraction. The book is also organized in a logical, user-friendly way, with each chapter building on the previous one to create a comprehensive system for harnessing the power of the Law of Attraction.

Overall, the Law of Attraction by Michael Losier is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their life through positive thinking and intentional manifestation. Whether I am looking to attract more abundance, better relationships, or improved health and well-being, this book offers practical tools and strategies to help me achieve my goals. By following the guidance in this book, readers and I can gain a deeper understanding of the Law of Attraction and use it to create the life we desire.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

One aspect of the book that may not have been fully emphasized is the importance of acting towards my goals. While the Law of Attraction can help me attract opportunities and resources that align with my desires, it is still up to me to act towards achieving those goals. Losier mentions this briefly in the book, but it is worth emphasizing that simply visualizing and affirming my desires is not enough to make them a reality. You must also take inspired action towards those desires, whether it is learning new skills, networking with others, or taking steps to overcome any obstacles that may be standing in the way.
Another important point that may not have been fully highlighted in the book is the role of gratitude in the Law of Attraction. Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can help me attract more of what I want in life. When you are grateful for what you have, you send out positive energy that can attract more abundance and prosperity.

Losier briefly touches on this topic in the book, but it is worth emphasizing that cultivating a sense of gratitude should be an integral part of my daily practice when using the Law of Attraction. This can be as simple as writing down things you are grateful for each day or taking a few moments to appreciate the good things in your life.In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn more about this powerful principle. However, it is important to remember that the Law of Attraction is not a magic bullet that will instantly manifest my desires. It requires consistent effort, a positive mindset, and a willingness to take action towards you goals. Additionally, gratitude is a powerful tool that can help you attract even more abundance and prosperity into your life.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 9
C. How easy was it to understand? 8
D. Would you recommend it to others? 9
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 8

100 Great Business Ideas (From Leading Companies Around the World)
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

In “100 Great Business Ideas (From Leading Companies Around the World)” by Jeremy Kourdi, the author’s main idea is to provide readers with a diverse and comprehensive collection of innovative business concepts and strategies that have been successfully employed by leading companies from around the world. Kourdi aims to inspire and educate aspiring entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone interested in the world of commerce. Through a compilation of real-life case studies and examples, the book showcases how different companies have leveraged creativity, innovation, and adaptability to achieve success in their respective industries. By presenting these 100 business ideas, Kourdi encourages readers to think outside the box, adapt to changing markets, and apply these valuable lessons to their own ventures. Ultimately, the book serves as a source of inspiration and a practical guide for those seeking to excel in the competitive world of business.

Among the many inspiring ideas presented in Jeremy Kourdi’s book on “100 Great Business Ideas,” seven of them resonated with me on a personal level. These ideas are not just significant in the world of business but also hold a special place in my life.

i. Building customer trust and loyalty

I believe that trust is the foundation of any lasting relationship, whether in business or personal life. Trusting customers lead to loyalty, which, in turn, can result in long-term success. I’ve experienced this firsthand when I consistently patronize brands that I trust and feel loyal to.

ii. Scenario planning

The ability to foresee and prepare for different scenarios has been crucial in my life, both in my career and personal decisions. By practicing scenario planning, I’ve been able to navigate uncertainties more effectively, making better choices along the way.

iii. Making your employees proud

I’ve learned that when employees feel pride in their work and the company they represent, it positively impacts their performance and motivation. As a manager, I’ve seen how fostering pride among my team members can lead to higher productivity and job satisfaction.

iv. Using customer information

In today’s data-driven world, utilizing customer information effectively can be a game-changer. I’ve witnessed the power of personalized marketing and product development, which results in better customer experiences and business growth.

v. The rule of 150

I’ve realized the importance of managing relationships effectively and recognizing that there’s a limit to how many meaningful connections one can maintain. Adhering to the rule of 150 has helped me focus on nurturing quality relationships, rather than spreading myself too thin.

vi. Information orientation

In an age of information overload, being information-oriented is vital. I’ve personally benefited from staying updated and adapting to new knowledge, which has allowed me to make informed decisions and stay competitive.

vii. Franchising

While I haven’t directly participated in franchising, I’ve observed its power to expand businesses and reach new markets. This idea has inspired me to explore various growth strategies, considering franchising as a viable option in the future.
These seven ideas have not only left a mark in my professional and personal life but also illustrate the interconnectedness of effective business practices with personal growth and development.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

The ideas presented in Jeremy Kourdi’s book on “100 Great Business Ideas” have undoubtedly made a significant impact on my daily personal life and my aspirations to create a better world.

First and foremost, the concept of building customer trust and loyalty has taught me the importance of trust as the cornerstone of any lasting relationship. This principle has shaped the way I approach personal connections, emphasizing the significance of trust in my interactions with friends and loved ones.

Scenario planning, another invaluable lesson, has empowered me to face uncertainties with greater confidence. This skill has not only guided my professional choices but has also aided me in making informed decisions in my personal life, enabling me to anticipate and adapt to various outcomes effectively.

Making employees proud is a notion I’ve implemented as a manager, witnessing how it boosts team performance and job satisfaction. The knowledge that fostering pride can improve work environments has also influenced my interactions with friends and family, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and celebrating their achievements.

Using customer information has shown me the transformative power of data-driven decision-making, a concept I’ve embraced in my personal life. Tailoring experiences and relationships to individual preferences has allowed me to foster deeper connections and better understand those around me.

The rule of 150 has instilled in me the significance of quality over quantity in relationships. By focusing on nurturing meaningful connections, I’ve cultivated more enriching personal bonds and strengthened my commitment to maintaining these relationships.

Information orientation, in a world inundated with data, has sharpened my ability to adapt to new knowledge, making well-informed decisions in both personal and professional aspects of life. Staying competitive and constantly evolving has become a personal mantra.

While I haven’t ventured into franchising directly, the idea of franchising has encouraged me to explore diverse strategies for business growth, thereby opening doors to new opportunities and potential collaborations. In summary, the ideas from Kourdi’s book have not only impacted my professional life but have also seamlessly translated into my personal life, creating a harmonious blend of business practices and personal development. These principles have empowered me to foster trust, navigate uncertainties, celebrate achievements, make data-driven decisions, nurture meaningful relationships, stay informed, and consider innovative growth strategies in my quest to create a better world.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got my attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

“Indeed the power of ideas can even exceed the power of money.”

This quote emphasizes the profound impact that innovative and well-executed ideas can have in the business world. It’s a reminder that financial resources alone are not always enough to ensure success. Instead, it highlights the significance of creativity, strategic thinking, and the ability to develop unique concepts that can disrupt industries and drive growth. In a world where financial resources are often seen as the primary driver of success, this statement serves as a compelling reminder that a brilliant idea, when properly executed, can outshine the influence of money and lead to remarkable achievements in the business arena. It underscores the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and nurturing entrepreneurial thinking within organizations.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas that you disagree with, and, if so, why?

“Use the internet to provide information for the individual even if your business does not carry out its primary operations online.”

The idea of using the internet to provide information for individuals, even if your business does not primarily operate online, is presented as a valuable strategy. While this concept is generally sound and aligned with the trend of businesses embracing digitalization and online presence, there could be certain aspects that may not be entirely clear or could raise concerns.

One potential point of ambiguity might be the specific methods and techniques to effectively implement this idea. The book may not provide a comprehensive guide on how traditional businesses can harness the power of the internet for disseminating information without veering into the territory of online operations. For instance, it might be unclear how to strike the right balance between offline and online activities to ensure optimal results. Moreover, there might be reservations or disagreements among some readers regarding the feasibility of this strategy for certain types of businesses. It’s possible that for some niche or highly localized businesses, the internet may not be the most cost-effective or efficient means of information dissemination. In such cases, it might be more advantageous to focus on traditional marketing and communication channels.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

“Recognize that managing information depends upon people: how they use available information and systems, how they share their knowledge with others, and how motivated they are to use information to innovate and create value.”

Yes indeed, I diligently worked through these exercises, finding them to be highly beneficial for enhancing my understanding of the concepts presented in the book. The particular exercise mentioned encourages readers to recognize the critical role of people in managing information within businesses. It prompts readers to consider how individuals use available information and systems, how they share their knowledge with others, and the importance of their motivation to innovate and create value through information. By engaging with such exercises, I was able to apply the book’s principles to real-world scenarios, thus deepening my grasp of the subject matter and equipping me with practical skills that I can use in a professional setting.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

Yes on the idea on valuing instinct really struck a chord with me. This concept emphasizes the importance of intuition and gut feelings in the world of business decision-making. While data-driven analysis and research are crucial in making informed choices, the book highlights that there are situations where instinct can play a vital role. This idea resonates with the notion that successful entrepreneurs often rely on their instincts and creative insights to make bold moves and seize opportunities. It’s a reminder that not everything in the business world can be reduced to numbers and statistics, and sometimes, trusting one’s intuition can lead to innovative and groundbreaking solutions. This insight from the book reinforces the idea that in business, a balance between data-driven decision-making and instinct is key to achieving long-term success.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

Crucial Conversations Tools for Talking When Stakes are High
Assessment by Salad Halane (Somalia)

1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?

The main idea that the authors of “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High” are trying to convey is the importance of effectively navigating and engaging in challenging conversations, especially when the stakes are high. The book emphasizes the significance of open and honest communication in various aspects of life, including personal relationships, work situations, and other crucial interactions. It provides readers with a framework and practical tools for approaching these conversations with confidence and skill, ultimately enabling them to address conflicts, make better decisions, and build stronger relationships. By offering insights into how to manage emotions, foster mutual respect, and reach a shared understanding, the authors aim to empower individuals to tackle sensitive topics and achieve more positive outcomes in their critical discussions.

i. The Power of Dialogue

The idea of engaging in open and honest dialogue, even when faced with high-stakes and emotionally charged situations, was personally important to me. I recall a time when I had a heated argument with a close friend over a misunderstanding. Instead of avoiding the conversation, I applied the principles from the book, creating a safe space for dialogue. We were able to address our concerns without escalating the conflict, ultimately strengthening our friendship.

ii. Mastering My Stories

This concept of examining my own internal narratives and understanding how they affect my reactions resonated with me. I can think of a work-related scenario where I initially interpreted a colleague’s actions as undermining my efforts. By applying this principle, I learned to question my assumptions and recognize that their intentions were different from what I had assumed, resulting in improved collaboration.

iii. Start with Heart

The idea of focusing on my true intentions and feelings when entering a crucial conversation was crucial for me. I can recall a time when I had to discuss a delicate issue with a family member. By centering myself on my love and concern for them, I approached the conversation with empathy and compassion, which led to a more productive and positive outcome.
iv. Learn to Look

The skill of recognizing when a conversation becomes crucial and identifying safety risks was eye-opening. I can think of a situation at work where I sensed that my team was avoiding a significant issue. Utilizing the “Learn to Look” approach, I proactively addressed the issue, creating a safer space for everyone to express their concerns.

v. Make It Safe

Creating safety in conversations, both physically and emotionally, was a valuable concept for me. I remember a time when I had to deliver constructive feedback to a subordinate. By ensuring they felt safe and supported during our discussion, I observed them taking the feedback positively and making significant improvements.

vi. Master My Emotions

Learning how to manage my emotions and stay focused on the desired outcome during crucial conversations was a personal game-changer. In a recent negotiation about a major purchase, I applied this principle, preventing myself from getting agitated and securing a favorable deal.

vii. Move to Action

The final idea of converting crucial conversations into concrete action plans was important in my life. I recall a time when I had to resolve a conflict within my community group. By using the book’s guidance, we transformed our dialogue into actionable steps, leading to positive changes within our organization.

These seven ideas from “Crucial Conversations” have significantly impacted my personal and professional life by enhancing my ability to navigate challenging conversations with greater skill and confidence. They have empowered me to maintain better relationships, make sound decisions, and achieve positive outcomes in various aspects of my life.

3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?

The ideas and lessons from “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler have made a profound impact on my daily personal life and my ability to contribute to creating a better world. The power of dialogue, which emphasizes open and honest communication in emotionally charged situations, has allowed me to resolve conflicts with friends, strengthening our relationships instead of damaging them. “Mastering My Stories” has helped me reevaluate my internal narratives, preventing me from jumping to conclusions and misjudging people’s intentions, thereby fostering better collaboration at work.
The principle of “Start with Heart” has encouraged me to focus on my true intentions and feelings when engaging in crucial conversations, leading to more empathetic and constructive interactions with family members. “Learn to Look” has enabled me to recognize when conversations turn crucial and take action to address safety risks, creating a more open environment for honest discussions in my workplace. “Make It Safe” has improved my ability to provide constructive feedback, ensuring that my subordinates take it positively and make significant improvements.

Learning to “Master My Emotions” has helped me maintain composure and focus on desired outcomes during negotiations, leading to more favorable deals. Finally, “Move to Action” has guided me in turning crucial conversations into actionable plans, resulting in positive changes within my community group. These principles have not only enhanced my personal relationships and decision-making but have also contributed to a more constructive and collaborative world around me. By applying these lessons, I can navigate difficult conversations with greater skill and confidence, ultimately making a positive impact on my personal and professional life and the broader community.

4. Quotes: Are there any statements that the author made that particularly got my attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.

One statement that really resonated with me from the book is the idea that “People who are skilled at dialogue do their best to make it safe for everyone to add their meaning to the shared pool.”

This is crucial because it emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and open space for communication. In my personal and professional life, I’ve often encountered situations where people are afraid to speak up due to fear of judgment or reprisal. This statement underscores the significance of fostering an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions, which is essential for effective communication and problem-solving.

Another statement that caught my attention is the authors’ advice on mastering the skill of contrasting. They mention that “Contrasting is an essential skill to help us clarify what we don’t mean when our words or actions are likely to be misunderstood.”

This concept struck a chord with me because it highlights the need to address potential misunderstandings proactively. In many conversations, I’ve observed that misinterpretations can lead to conflicts or miscommunication, and this statement reminds me of the importance of clarifying our intentions and addressing any possible misconceptions upfront. By doing so, we can prevent unnecessary conflicts and build stronger relationships in both personal and professional contexts.

5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas that you disagree with, and, if so, why?

In reading this book, I found the concepts and techniques presented to be incredibly insightful and valuable. However, there were a few aspects that left me with questions and some uncertainty. For instance, while the book emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for open dialogue in crucial conversations, I sometimes found myself wondering about the practicality of implementing these techniques in high-stress situations. In my experience, it can be challenging to maintain composure and effectively use the tools discussed when emotions run high. I would have appreciated more guidance on managing one’s emotions in the heat of the moment. Additionally, there were moments when I questioned the notion that “silence is not golden” and that addressing issues immediately is always the best course of action. I believe that there may be situations where stepping back and giving some time for reflection could be more beneficial. Despite these minor uncertainties, the book undeniably offers valuable insights and strategies for improving communication in crucial conversations.

6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?

I found several exercises provided for the reader to complete. These exercises were designed to help readers practice and apply the concepts and techniques discussed in the book. While I didn’t complete every single exercise, I did engage with many of them, and I found them to be highly valuable. They provided a practical way to internalize the principles of effective communication and conflict resolution presented in the book. The exercises allowed me to apply what I had learned in real-life situations, making it easier to incorporate these strategies into my daily interactions. Overall, the exercises were an essential component of the book, enhancing its practicality and helping me develop my conversational skills.

7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.

One aspect that particularly struck me was the emphasis on creating a safe environment for effective communication. The authors stress the importance of establishing mutual respect and trust as the foundation of productive discussions, especially when emotions run high or when the stakes are significant. They provide practical strategies and tools for managing dialogue and encourage readers to cultivate a mindset that prioritizes dialogue over debate. This notion of promoting psychological safety within conversations is crucial in both personal and professional contexts, as it can lead to better problem-solving, stronger relationships, and improved results. The book underscores the transformative power of dialogue and equips readers with the necessary skills to navigate challenging conversations successfully. This aspect of the book was not explicitly covered in the previous questions, but it is a fundamental concept that greatly contributes to the book’s overall message and effectiveness.

Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.

A. How interesting was it to read? 9
B. How helpful were the contents? 10
C. How easy was it to understand? 8
D. Would you recommend it to others? 8
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10