As A Man Thinketh
Assessment by Sr. Mary Concepta Mensah (Ghana)
1. What is the main idea of the book?
The main or central idea of James Allen’s book is ‘as a man thinketh so is his mind’. This statement tends to buttress the biblical idea of whatever comes out of a person defines him/her. The words we say, our contributions at meetings and the suggestions we offer during problematic situations identifies us as whether unique or empty vessels in our societies and work places.
2. What were the seven most important ideas you learnt from the book? 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.
The seven most important ideas from my own point of perspective include the following;
* Men do not attract that which they want, but that which they are. Their whims, fancies and ambitions are thwarted at every step but their inmost thoughts and desires are fed with their own food, be it foul or clean. Thus, the divinity that shapes our ends is ourselves.
* Secondly, every thought-seed sown or allowed to fall into the mind and to take root there produces its own, blossoming sooner or later into act, and bearing its own fruitage of opportunity and circumstance. Good thoughts bear good fruit, bad thoughts bad fruits. Personally, I live under the umbrella of clear conscience which facilitates my creative thinking potentials.
* Thirdly, I also learnt from James Allen’s book that man is the reaper of his own harvest, man learns both by suffering and bliss. The outer word of circumstances shapes itself to the inner world of thought, and both pleasant and unpleasant external conditions are factors which make for the ultimate good of the individual. No condition is ever permanent, hence the journey of life is not straight forward and there man should be prepared to learn during good and bad times. I always learn from my achievements and pit-falls as an individual l learn in creating a better world for myself.
* The idea that the soul attracts that which it secretly harbors; that which it loves and that which it fears; it reaches the height of its cherished aspirations; it falls to the level of its unfastened desires and circumstances are the means by which the soul receives its own is an idea that cannot be over-stated. Man is purposely created by God to worship him and to serve as stewards over all his other creations; man owns it as an obligation to fulfill his purpose of creation.
* Dishonest man is a totally corrupt and full of deceit. He garners his own suffering and happiness. The honest man reaps good result of his honest thought and acts; he also brings upon himself the suffering which his vices produce. This therefore implies that man should live up to standard by taking into cognizance the need to be honest in all aspects of their life as a moral virtue. Personally I dislike the dishonest and liars, since they are enemies to prosperity
* Good thoughts and actions can never produce bad results; bad thoughts and actions can never produce good results. This is but saying that nothing comes from corn but corn. In other words, man reaps what he sows. If you do good, goodness shall follow you and vice versa.
* Lastly, let man cease from sinful thoughts, and all the world wills often towards him, and be ready to help him, let him put away his weak thoughts and opportunities will spring up on every hand to aid his strong resolves. If man eschews worldly things and live piously, blessings shall follow him dwell in forever-success shall be his companion and the skies will be his limit.
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 learnt, or lessons taught to me by James Allen’s book will among other things help me practically to;
Firstly, develop the attitude of positive thinking to develop a formidable mental positive attitude in the attainment of a successful life worthy of emulation and in creating a better world.
Secondly, the lessons will equip me with the necessary and vital skills, knowledge and values needed but hidden to be most successful in this modern world of ours. This is done through the elimination of what is termed negative mental attitude.
Also, I have learnt to make sure that whatever comes out of me should be seen as decent and pious since whatever comes out of a man defines him as such. As a man thinketh so is his mind-total composition of the body.
Notwithstanding, practically, man is a social being whose life depends on some fundamental elements as far as the achievement of their personal aims and aspirations are concern. Life they say, is how you make it, hence, the prudent shall always be at the most competitive edge at the disadvantage of the maladjusted and unplanned.
In conclusion, one can boldly say that the ideas and lessons are facilitators of a successful life.
4. Quotes; Are there brief quotes from the book which really got your attention? If so, please list and comment on them.
Below are some quotes that got my attention;
Ø ‘As a man thinketh in his heart so is he’
Ø ‘Thought in the mind hath made us ,what we are’
Ø So you will be what you will to be’
Ø ‘Let failure find its false content’
Ø ‘It masters time, it conquers space; it covers that boastful trickster, chance’
Ø ‘Be not impatience in delays but wait as one who understands’
Ø ‘The human will that force unseen’.
The aforementioned quotes did actually got my attention in that they carry wise and thoughtful messages that serve as motivational tools in achieving a successful life. We are what we think and man reaps what he sows. Besides, man should be liberal non-judgmental and should not harbor any ill-feelings for others. Human being is illuminous and changeable and can portray surprises of both positive and negative in all his / her dealings. We are masters of ourselves, and man’s destiny lies in his own hands simply because man is held answerable for all his dealings with his fellow man. As man makes his bed so he lies on and whatever situation man finds himself man acts as a judge for himself whether good or bad.
These quotations portray that, success can never be achieved on a silver platter meaning that man needs to work assiduously everyday of his life and only needs to exercise some restrain and patiently keep on trying to achieve perfection. Upon realizing that there is a supreme being responsible for creation, man becomes aware that, he is nothing but a non entity. It is only with constant effort and determination that success can be achieved. I also learnt that, as a man polishes his inner self he should try to fill that the empty spaces by cultivating certain virtues to replace the vices already acquired. Thought and character are one because whatever man thinks and meditates on he acts it openly, that is out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. Acting our thoughts at times can be misleading and if we follow other people in this way we may tend to judge, misinterpret their actions, so man is always advised to stay focused in life and concentrate on his life rather than living other people’s life for them.
Man sows what he reaps, it teaches me that whatever one lives his life whether good or bad will render an account to that, so we are all advised and to be encouraged to do our utmost best, to do that which is pleasing in the sight of God. A mango tree as we all know will produce mango and never an orange. We are what we are and many a times, the outward sign which we portray depicts our inner expression. We should be content with what we have and appreciate whatever form of life we find ourselves, since we cannot add, subtract or change nothing in us that displeases us. We learn to make do with it and live our life to the best of our ability using all the means our Creator has endowed us with. It is only then that we will be happy with our selves and later join our God to live with him happily in the next. Patience is the key to every success as an adage goes, ‘a patient dog gets the fattest meat.
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?
After a thorough reading of this book, I found the ideas contained therein as perfect and educative. These ideas have nourished me with the elements of good leadership skills and success attainment. All in all, the book is so special! I therefore on this note suggest that it should be made available to all and sundry to learn to at least be abreast with its useful ideas and lessons.
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 did actually contain few problems that were answered by the reader. The reader on that note found these exercises so helpful and contributory to societal development and most importantly equips an individual with the necessary gadgets to be a winner in life. Besides, James Allen’s book is so practical that every individual must read and apply it in our daily lives and success shall be the result or end product.
7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous question? If so, please comment.
The only thing I WOULD like to comment on is the colloquial wordings of the book making understanding so unclear-for easy understanding. Besides; the printing was not so bold for people with poor eye sight to read faster without straining. However, the book in its totality is so excellent, superb and above all so personal-oriented geared towards the development of the individual.
Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.
A. How interesting was it to read? 9
B. How helpful were the contents ? 9
C. How easy was it to understand ? 8
D. Would you recommend it to others ? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it ? 9
Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Assessment by Sr. Mary Concepta Mensah (Ghana)
1. What is the main idea of the book?
The main idea of Jonathan Livingston Seagull’s book is clear conscience. We ought to live a life worthy of emulation with a sense of direction geared towards the achievement of goals and aspirations in mind with clear and pious consciousness. For practice we say, makes man perfect and constant and deep personal reflection polishes man interiorly.
2. What were the seven most important ideas you learnt from the book? 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.
The seven most important ideas from my own perspective include the following;
v Anything conceivable is worth achievable. Man should eschew the attitude and spirit of I can do in that, whatever one tries doing shall surely creates perfection which will subsequently breeds success – success will in turn beget happiness, joy, total comfor , peace, to mention but a few. This implies that man must make it a duty to learn to start something on very smaller scale and think of putting in maximum effort to attain success which can be done through accumulation of experiences.
v Secondly, one should not be under boredom, fear, nor angry as they are the major elements that shortens life. This therefore means that in life an individual should be concentrative and courageous in whatever we are doing so as not to sway from our focus and direction in the achievement of our goals and objective in life. Life they say is no rush or hurry but a build up of a gradual series of processes. Personally, as an administrator, I execute instructions fairly without fear nor favor.
v Thirdly, I was totally taken home when the author exposed me to the idea of constant practices which breeds perfection. It must be noted that nothing good comes easy, hence, there is the need to practice constantly in any chosen endeavour of your choice to create perfection-practice makes man perfect.
v The idea of learning from each other especially ideas that seems so technical and requires special expertise also sounds so appealing to me. The society this day has become so complex and dynamic which can be inhabited by the clergy through knowledge-oriented activities so as to be in the competition and emerge as a success. It took millions of constant practices for some successful men like Thomas EDISON and Henry FORD to be the largest and successful manufacturers in the automobile industry. Personaly, through constant practice I took the bull by the horn and came out with flying colors in my post-degree programs.
v One has to conduct what could be termed as personal assessment to identify our strengths, abilities, talents and weaknesses to know where we can best be fitted into. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses expose one to what he/she is capable of doing and doing in the very best manner to out-perform others.
v Also, the author brought to light the need to conduct environmental and experimental studies in our respective societies. This will aid and abet in short run with the societal issues confronting members and in the long run help to find antidotes to these issues to cease all forms of tensions and chaos in the world at large –productivity will surely be boosted too.
v Last but not the least, the idea of being tolerant in every situation and environment also touched my heart. We should learn to tolerate each other and also respect their views as welcomable ideas .This will promote total peace and development in our society and the world at large. Peace is the universal set for the subsets development in anywhere, anytime and therefore its importance cannot be over-stated.
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 learnt from Jonathan Livingstone Seagull’s book have enriched me with skills and techniques to be successful in this competitive world of ours. NOT only that, the ideas have contributed to ;
The need to practice constantly to create perfection to be a winner in anywhere anytime.
Learn always to discover facts and ideas for yourselves in creating a better world.
Also, identifying our strengths and weaknesses will help us function efficiently and effectively in any field we come in contact with.
Practically, these ideas have equip me with the requisite knowledge and tools needed to attain and climb the ladder of success to be fitted in this dynamic and contemporally society of ours –in helping to create a better world
4. Quotes; Are there brief quotes from the book which really got your attention? If so, please list and comment on them.
Below are some quotes that got my attention;
* ‘There is a reason to life’
* ‘We cannot lift ourselves out of ignorance, we can find ourselves as creatures of excellence’
* ‘Keep working on love’
* ‘I don’t care what they say’
* ‘It always works, when you know what you are doing not about your control’
These quotes sound so appealing to my liken and bores down to encourage and strengthen me to be focus and concentrative through a sense of direction to the land of my dream.
There is a reason for life for every human being on earth. God has plan for you and me. Wherever situation one finds himself whether good or bad, accept it in good faith, but work assiduously to better the situation by trying to brighten the corner where you are. Above all be content with what you have. For you cannot become like another person. God has a purpose for creating you, remember, you are a unique individual and special. Though we are social being we depend on each other in our day to day relationship yet we are a unique individual who are going to render individual account on ourselves.
Man naturally is prone always to point at someone’s vices and weak points thereby over looking at his own. Since life is so precious, man should try to protect his life by living a clean and decent life. He should be mindful of what he eats, drink and wear, and should always live in a healthy and clean environment since cleanliness is next to godliness.
Since we are human and cannot do without living without ignorance, we need always to strive for perfection. Perfection cannot be achieved on a silver platter, one need to work hard for it, day in and day out since practice makes man perfect. Each of us has his own talent and different gifts, only work hard to discover yours, accept what you discover, work towards that and you will be able to scale through life. Life is not easy, one is meant to meet obstacles on the way, pleasant and otherwise as you climb the ladder. Play your part effectively and so well that you may not be found wanting at any point in time. Remain focused and place yourself in some positive challenges that will make you an active and dynamic.
Keep working on love always and everywhere you may find yourself. Love is the answer to God’s commandments to man. Always do to others what you want to be done to you. To love simply means to be happy with yourself and others, learn to offer a helping hand to people, assist your fellow man always and most especially when the need arises. We live and move with man, interact with man and rely solely on man. Since we are social being, we are bound to step on the toes of each other, act against each other, but we should always remember to settle our differences amicably and as quickly as we can. We should not in any way allow the sunset to fall on our anger against our fellow man. Love entails sacrifices, it entails self denials and above all we learn to be patient and tolerant towards our fellow man. Always wishing our brothers well, think of their needs before self, by so doing, happiness will prevail and once happiness exists among man true love can then takes its root in our life. If we love life then we should love work too. We are to be good and dedicated to our duties , always work with an enthusiastic spirit not counting the cost. By so doing, your good deeds will be made manifest by the people you come in contact with, and your heavenly Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you abundantly.
I do not care what they say, there is time for everything. There is times to talk and a time keep mute, so learn how to be tolerant. Whatever one does, people will always talk. At times it will be expedient to sit back, reflect and a have a retrospective look into your life. Replace vices with virtues, and then you will be happy with life.
5. Is there anything in the book that you do not or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and if so, why?
After a thorough reading of this book, I found the ideas contained therein as perfect and educative. These ideas have nourished me with the elements of good leadership skills and success attainment. All in all, the book is so special!
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you found them helpful?
The book did actually contain few problems that were answered by the reader. The reader on that note found these exercises as so helpful and contributory to societal development and most importantly equips an individual with the necessary gadgets to be a winner 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 question? If so, please comment.
The only thing I WOULD like to comment on is colloquial wording of the book making understanding so unclear and not straight-forward for reader. Besides; the printing was not so bold to my liken. However, the book in its entirety is so excellent.
Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.
A. How interesting was it to read? 9
B. How helpful were the contents ? 9
C. How easy was it to understand ? 8
D. Would you recommend it to others ? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it ? 9
Keys To Success
Assessment by Sr. Mary Concepta Mensah (Ghana)
1. What is the main idea that the writer is trying to convey in the book?
The book entitled, Key to Success stresses on very many positive ideas like; the way human minds can conceive ideas and execute them into action or even expressing them in words. Action, we say speaks louder than words, and before any action takes place, it must have been preceded by a thoughtful conception of what one intends to do whether good or bad. To my simple understanding, the main idea his book portrays is that, determination is the key to every success. When you determine to embark on any venture, with deep and careful thought, believing firmly in your subconscious mind that you will succeed it will be so for you. Nobody will ever conceive any idea and implement it for you. You can only reap what you sow we should always bear in mind that, as one makes his bed so he sleeps on. God has given each and every person an intellect and the free will to act, so whatever one does in life whether good or bad you will be held accountable for it and for this action to be materialized, there is the need for daily struggle for a complete achievement. It is said that little drops of water makes a mighty ocean and such complacency should not come in here, because for one to succeed in life, is not a nine day wonder but a daily struggle for success which demands sacrifice, self-willed, and perseverance success is all about determination and hard work. There is nothing in this world that can be achieved on a silver platter, for you to achieve your target, you have to sweat and work assiduously and night. With deep determination and a sense of humor you can still press on positively and achieve your aim with which you came into this world with. As the book implies, key to success speaks of itself that is, success is not meant for certain groups of people alone, but it is meant for all people irrespective of your status in life. It is therefore expedient for all men to strive ahead and work for a better future.
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.
To me the seven ideas in the book are the following:
(1) Ability to achieve ones ambitions here there is every possible need to acquire the sense of humor which will aid you achieve or reach your target. It is not easy to come by achievement without first putting yourself together, it is only then that you can face squarely the reality in life. ‘There are so many good and fruitful ideas that the book contains, which cannot all be written down in this write up but the most important ones to me is that, man is a social being who at all times must associates himself with his fellow man in all his endeavors, it is only this that man can achieve his ambitions in life.
(2) Always bear in mind that you have the potential to succeed in life if only you tune your mind and determine that, you can succeed in life irrespective of all the obstacles that may circumspect and focused in life and then you will able face the challenges in life squarely.
(3) Besides one should tune the mind, to the right direction and remain focus in all your dealings with others I have always been blessed reading this book, this has really pave way for me by directing me to always think positively in my areas of work. It is always advisable for one to sit down quietly and take a retrospective look into oneself to make you know that, you are on the right path, with this in mind you will be able to know yourself adequately enough to measure yourself positively and otherwise. It is only by telling yourself the painful truth that can pave a way for you to be considered a hero or in a better sense, a successful human being.
(4) Creating of personal initiative is worth mentioning here. Man is a social being and as search my interaction with my fellow beings is of paramount importance, since man is a social being, I will be able to deal with people harmoniously at all times. No man on earth is an island, nor can anybody live happily alone in this world, and that is the more reason why every person is so important, no matter your position in life. We depend on each other for a happy survival.
(5) Again, the book talked about how one can trust and believe the ideas which are so dear to the heart of man thereby shunning all disbeliefs. By so doing, I should not allow limitations to over shadow my intelligence, this has helped me to achieve my aim. Trust we say is a vital virtue which needs to be acquired by all men on earth, with this you will be able to achieve your target, because the more you trust the more successful you will be. Even though at times, it is painful to even go on smoothly with someone whom you trust not to talk on someone you do not trust.
(6) Last but not the least, continuous and persistent efforts together with sincere determination has assisted me forge ahead to utilize my potentials thereby assisting me to do my work perfectly well. I have always been inspired by this book simply because, the contents have really taught me a big lesson which have added value in my life as well as in my area of work. My dealings with my fellow human being have also change for better.
(7) In addition, to work effectively well, there is the need for one to exercise self constraint and practice self discipline; with this in mind one can definitely achieve ones aim. Discipline goes with positive attitude, enthusiasm, and self control, and so to be effective I have to try my possible best to work within these virtues because each of these is dependent on each other. Patients we say, is one of the best virtue one can acquire, in life, because with it you will be able to scale through life successfully. It is said that, the patient dog eats fattest meat, meaning that, taking time to go through life will end you well some where better than where you are today.
3. How will these ideas help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If s why?
Personally, these ideas urged me to be persistent, remain steady and be focus in all my undertakings. Trying my best to do my best to do one thing at a time can go a long way for me in life. This can only be materialized, when I act confidently and believing firmly at the back of my mind that I will succeed despite all the vicissitude of life, because life as we all know it goes with challenges both positive and negative. We should always remember that, life is not as easy as some think it is, it becomes easy only when you face the challenges positively. No one was born a failure in life. You can achieve your goal only when you discover your talent and work towards that, can you become happy in life and be classify as hero in your own way God has destined for you. You should also bear in mind that, we are not born equally to achieve equal aim because man is born differently with different gifts and temperament. When one discovers ones potentials and capabilities one can live harmoniously with all human beings.
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) “Heavenly father, my work on earth was not finished. Why didn’t you save me? In this world, nobody can finish his or her work because man has a time on earth and since no one knows when one will die, so it is that, you cannot finish your work you started on earth. Man cannot do everything on earth, no matter how sophisticated your working tools are, you can only perform the little God has planned for you to acquire in life. You can only do that and nothing else. So kindly utilize your chance and work within your limit.
(b) “Tolerance is the disposition to be patient and fair toward those whose opinions, practices, and beliefs differ from yours” Man is a social being who depends solely on each other, whose temperament differs, and as such I should always try to think about the interest and welfare of my neighbor first, considering him to be better than myself. To me, the book has really put me into a better stance by teaching me how to cope up with my fellow human being.
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?
Challenging and I humbly request that, if possible the book be made available to many people to read so that the rich ideas in the book may reach many people as possible, because knowledge, we say, is power.
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you found them helpful?
Napoleon Hill’s book on Keys to success contains a lot of challenges to me which were very educative. The contents are well noted for practice, personally, the book inspires me to be principled in all my undertakings and dealings with my fellow man. It teaches me about how to control my habits, because it is only my thought that I can exert complete control, since my mind is so subject to the dominating influences in my environment, and I must take control over those influences by developing beneficial mental habits. Besides, I should try all my possible best to be an accurate thinker and this can be done only when I separate facts from opinions, to distinguish between important and unimportant facts and shun hearsay and the like.
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 book to me is self explanatory and I personally commend the author for work well done.
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 Sr. Mary Concepta Mensah (Ghana)
1. What is the main idea that the writer is trying to convey in the book?
Knowledge they say is power, and he who acquires it possess a treasure. To me ability to perform adequately, in ones area of life is what matters. One thing is to acquire knowledge, and another is to utilize the knowledge acquired. That is the more reason why I personally admire the book and all its contents. To be able to write a book not just any book but a book rich in contents, as Psycho- Cybernetics is worth commending. To me the book carries a lot of inspiration, and very challenging, but I have simply chosen this message of being focus-minded, ability of being self confident in whatever one does in life irrespective of the challenges that may fall on you. The world as we see it is full of vicissitudes hence one should always be prepared to face the challenges in life squarely. Besides, the book advocates that, one is expected to live exercising any fear or favor in his dealing with his fellow man. To be able to do something positive in life one should be self effacing. Every one of us always feels acts and behaves in a way that is consistent with our self –image, regardless of the reality of that image. You should always bear in mind that, our disturbed feelings, be it our fearful dispositions like anger, anxiety, fear, insecurity and the like are caused by our own responses and not externals. Thus, relaxation is nature’s own tranquilizer, which erects pscychic screen between you and the disturbing stimulus.
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. Seeing my old beliefs and negative life memories as if they belong to another time and may not do me any good except blocking my capability of forging ahead successfully in life. To be able to achieve ones aim in life, one must always live and work in the present and not in the past. We can only refer to our past life and memories only when we want to learn a lesson from it. To live in the past means to be stable in life, but life as we know it, is not to be fought backwards. No one wants to live life in vain, every one wants to be called a hero or better still an achiever, how can you become one when you do not progress in life. Success is moving ahead permanently always and at any point in time.
ii. To go about my daily life with an “I will see it when I believe it “attitude. Be poised about life and this will definitely assist me to remain focus in all my endeavors. There are so many things one plans to do in life but we can only perform one thing at a time, and by so doing, one will be able to achieve ones aim. The emphasis is always try to do one thing at a time. That means before ever you set out for any task you must first of all have to conceive the idea, plan the strategy you will follow, get all the needed items ready, and then face the task with a determined heart, and without minding the obstacles that will be encounted along the process then you will surely stand the chance of calling yourself a successful fellow. Success as we know it can never be achieved on a silver platter. The book has taught me always try to distant myself from all negative attitude in and be poised so that, I can live and associate myself happily with others. It is only when I do this will I be able to achieve my goals in life.
iii. Relaxation is one of those ideas that caught my attention. This is so simply because, when the mind and the body are at rest, the entire body is equally at rest too. It is only then can I be efficient in life, because a healthy mind works in a healthy body. It is said that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, the human body is not a machine and as such it needs to rest. Even machine gets tired when over worked so it is with the human body. I have through this book learnt how to work and at the same time learn how to rest, and this has gone a long way for me in my apostolate. When the body is at rest, it gives strength for one to work well. For instance after reading this book, I do take some good time to relax and by so doing it has made me work well and with this I personally recommend the book to all and sundry.
iv. Overcoming stress is yet another aspect that I am particularly in love with, why because it reduces your strength, and renders you inefficient. Stress can inhibit the remission of cancer and accelerate the development of AIDS and other diseases. The body needs to rest and be free from stress. Stress as we are all aware, is associated with so many discomforts, why because, when the body is over worked there is nothing positive or beneficial the body can achieve. After reading this book, I have personally been enlightened as to work well, rest well only then will I be efficient in life.
v. Do not procrastinate; the book has taught me that, whatever I have to do should be done outright and not postponing it till the next day, because I do not know whether I will see that day or not. Today, is the day God has made me set my eye on, and so I have to utilize the time I have. Procrastination has nothing good to offer, in life neither is “Had I known “any better than delaying plans or work. So we should try our possible best to form the habit of always and everywhere respond to today’s activity that is the immediate activity or the present time. If for example, you have some task to perform, it should be done accordingly not minding all the obstacles that may hamper your progress. When you register this at the back of your mind that life it not so easy and success is equally hard to come by, only then can life is termed as meaningful for you.
vi. Making contacts with friends and my co-workers: To be successful in life, the book has taught me to make good friends at my work place that will assist me work better. Two good heads are better than one, no one can work alone successfully, I need the comfort of my friend, I need the advice, the support, and the talent of a friend and a co-worker to prove effective and efficient in life. It is always said that, no man is an island, and if that is so, it is expedient to make good friends as I work it is only in this way will I be able to achieve my goal. When one makes good friends one stands the chance to work well, because good friends many a times are reliable and you can enjoy their talents, receive pieces of advice and even share their time. Since men are of different temperament it is always likely that character will always differ from person to person.
vii. Showing appreciation and giving reward really touched me. Reward is not only giving in a form of money alone. The mere fact of saying “thank you”, I appreciate your kindness beaming with a smile and even a hand shake are all forms of showing appreciation to some one who has done you well. Man is always the best person one can work with; as such there is the need to appreciate what one does for you. Appreciation can take so many forms, ranging from good verbal expression to exchange of gifts. After reading the book, I have learnt how to appreciate the services people do for me.
3. How did 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?
I have personally enjoyed the book which has contributed immensely to my life. That is, inferiority complex should be shunned from me. I am an entity and very special indeed in the sight of God.
Remember always to be time conscious in my dealings with my fellow human being. Time we say, is money and precious and time lost can never be gained back. I must learn to keep to time always and it will make me feel good.
Always try to plan your life accordingly, that is, try to correct the mistakes in what I make and strive to overcome them by learning from the very mistakes that I do. I have to live one day at a time, by not living the past but today.
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 as to why they were important to you.
What would the world look like of I rode on a beam of light? The world would be beautiful, because light as we all know it, is what man sees with. No one likes to live in the dark. Darkness is always associated with evil deeds, while light is associated with good deeds.
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?
Personally, I do agree with the ideas in the book and I found it very rich.
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 ideas in the book are excellent and add value and knowledge to all readers. It has also challenged me to be self effacing, to be focus and determined 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 do agree with what is contained in the book and I request that the book is made available to many people to read for enlightenment.
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? 9
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10
Success Through Positive Mental Attitude
Assessment by Sr. Mary Concepta Mensah (Ghana)
1. What is the main that the author is trying to convey in the book?
According to the author of the famous book, there is nothing in this world that is easy to come by nothing is achieved on a silver platter, why, because one has to strive hard to succeed in life. One has to think positively on right direction if one is to succeed in life. One has to think well and positive leaving behind all negative feelings so that you can grow in a good mental frame, and be acceptable in the society The greatest secret of success is that, there is no secret, why is this so? It is because it simply takes an open efforts and dedication to duty for one to achieve success which is not a secret. To achieve anything worthwhile in life, it is imperative to be self effacing, well dedicated and always have a positive frame of mind. When this is done, then you stand the chance to succeed in life. For me I was particularly touched by the seventeen principles laid down by the author as; having a positive mind which will go a long way for one always to think positively. Having a definiteness of purpose will as well directs one mind and actions to move on smoothly, it simply portrays that, one is adequately prepared to take challenges in life. Man is always admonish to be charitable to his fellow man by assisting him when need arises and as you exhibit charity, make sure that, you put up an accurate thinking, always think right and you will be free from all troubles and mishaps. Self discipline coupled with a clear master mind has gone a long way for me in my area of work and in exercising my duties day by day. The book has taught to me to be self discipline which will make me a pleasing personality where I will be able to fit into life with all enthusiasm.
2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? lesList 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. Every misfortune we say is a blessing and nothing in this world happens by chance, everything is so planned systematically that, all things go on well for those that are well focus in life. God has given each person certain task to perform which is done individually. Though man is a social being and so important yet, he will be accountable for all his actions. Every person is expected to learn from ones defeat, for the fact that, one is defeated does not make one a failure; you only have to strive ahead for success. There is the need to have a creative vision so that you will be able to think ahead and work successfully in life for it is said that success is failure turned inside out.
ii. Acquiring positive mental attitude: For one to think accurately, one should reason by thinking logically by applying common sense in all my endeavors. When I reason positively, I will be able to perform efficiently. The mind if left alone will wander round and ones the mind is idle, it only has to engage in idle talk. It is said that, shallow mind hardly think deep, I have through reading of this book gained some insight about how to reflect positively before I carry on any tangible work, and I personally recommend that the book if possible should be made available to many people to read so that, they can also acquire this knowledge.
iii. We should not compete with God: God is our creator and we should serve him in spirit and in truth. When we do this in humility, we would be truly be called the children of God. Competition in life is only healthy when we compete intelligently, by this, I mean that, I should not challenge my fellow human being unnecessarily, but rather have to sit and put up a healthy argument which will be beneficial to me. God who is a supreme being needs to be worshipped and adored all the days of my life.
iv. Feeling happy and healthy: The world is so small and complex that, one to slow down and act wisely. Feeling happy in oneself is by itself a healing which can go a long way for you. Happiness is the only thing that will help me to achieve my goal in life, happiness gives life to the soul and keeps the soul young. It really enlightens our minds and makes me approachable. Nobody wants to associate with a muddy person, the book has taught me to remain cheerful in life no matter the circumstance in life I have , been able to keep to that virtue.
v. Every one on earth needs certain virtues in life to succeed, such as acquiring the habit of loving all people, treating them as brothers in the Lord, assisting them when they are in need, considering them to c better than you and many more will go a long way for you to be happy in life. Love is the only virtue that will forever keep people united, when there is love, there will definitely be peace, because love gives birth or pave way to happiness. After reading the book, I have been challenged to treat people fairly no matter the situation that may befall on me, I will forever be grateful to people and cherish people at all times.
vi. Consulting others for help and guidance in my dealings and interactions will make me work better, because, the wisdom people have differ from person to person and that is the more reason why I have to seek for help and guidance if want to succeed in life. Man is a social being and as such needs to rely on his fellow man for help, since we are temperamentally built; it is expedient to listen to others for help and assistance in our daily living. I have learnt through this book that, I will seek for help when in doubt in my dealings with people if I want to succeed in life.
vii. I learnt from the book that, one word can cause an argument, develop misunderstanding greater unhappiness and end in misery. One word can buy peace or war. Guard my tongue and think of the consequences my actions could lead me to. The lesson is that I should always exercise restraint. The tongue is one of the vital organs in the body it is one of the smallest organ. The book has taught me to always guard my speech, because a kind word to somebody can go a long way in assisting him. Happiness can come about when there is harmony existing between men, it is said that, it is better to light a candle than to cause the darkness. Charity to people is a virtue which I have to practice all the days 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?
Man has every right to develop a positive mental attitude to life. Life as we all know it is a stage each person comes to the stage at different times to play his or her role and leaves the scene. For one to succeed in life, one must try to brighten the corner by thinking positive about issues, gives benefit of doubt to people, think about the other person’s interest and welfare first and behave in an acceptable manner, only then can one be said to be focus in life.
Besides, in all our endeavors we should, act and reason in a positive way trying our possible best to shun favoritism in our dealings with our fellow human beings.
The ideas were so educative and exposed me to do away with all those behaviors that are unbecoming. Besides, it sounded so practical to me, that we should try to turn adversity into seeds.
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.
Here it is I have been looking for this for several months. To my understanding, the book is a hidden treasure which has since been longed for. The joy one has when one desire something for a long time the joy of possessing it cannot simply be described.
Let me say again. He is most important that, when you read aloud the statement of your desire, you comfortably s expresses your wishes there is always the opportunity to get your way through in life.
5. Is there anything you read 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 really love the book because it is very educative and anyone who reads it has a treasure. This is one of the good books I have ever come across. The contents are well noted for practical implementation.
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 is good and full of inspiration. It can only be so, when one practices what one has learnt from the book. The more one practices and utilizes the knowledge acquired from the book, the more knowledgeable will one be. Knowledge is power and can never be taken away from you.
7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.
The book contains rich ideas which are very educative and I commend the author for work well done. For many people to come by this knowledge, I suggest that the book is made available for others to have access to it.
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? 10
Real Magic
Assessment by St. M. Concepta Mensah (Ghana)
1. What is the main idea of the book?
There are diverse ideas put up in this book and the one that struck me most was achieving a perfect equilibrium of the mind. To rest the mind and to keep it under control is of vital importance which must not be overlooked. This entails working assiduously to settle your own inner transformation. It should be noted that your inner transformation cannot be completed from an intellectual or scientific perspective. Man is capable of achieving anything at all provided he puts in maximum efforts towards his sense of purpose and direction in life. The main message here is that, you should always stay focus and settle down on your beliefs you have been taught to be treat as sacred.
2. What were the seven most important ideas you learnt from the book? 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 have come to realize that, everything in this world exists for a reason and that nothing happens by chance, and every experience in ones life has a lesson to teach in life.
A collection of life is termed as experiences. It should be noted that nothing good comes easy and therefore man should work so hard to come by what he wants to achieve. Experience we say is the best teacher. So in whatever you ask for believe firmly that you will receive it in faith. After the tedious work remember not to forget your maker. All one has to do is to trust in that invisible force that flows through you.
Besides, when you discover the way others will also like to tread on so keep to the right direction all the time and focus your mind on the right track. The way that cannot be seen will be reflected in your eyes. This implies that when one strives to have the inner way the outer way will follow. Reserve your judgment and disbelief and create a real-magic zone in your mind. Affirm yourself as a no-limit person and also, develop a new mind-set toward the concept of intuition. Discover the secret that sits in the center and to learn through knowing and trusting, rather than doubting and fearing. Affirm that your intention creates your reality. Finally. Practice daily meditation. As you observe your quite time you will experience the right frame of mind.
In addition, life is said to be a mystery and a journey which is full of vicissitudes it is made up of both happiness and sadness. Thus, there is time for everything on earth, there is time to talk and a time to keep silence, a time to laugh and a time to cry there is a time to love and a time to refrain from love, and so on and so forth.
Determination should be our watch word so we should always do our best to work hard and adapt to the situation we may find ourselves. This may not be easy but with serious efforts we can achieve our goals in life.
Furthermore, when you discover the way, others will surely follow suit so I have to make frantic effort to discover that route and follow. When people see you on that route, they will be also be drawn to your door as well. This presupposes that once you have the inner way, the outer way will follow. The next thing is to move on and implement this miracle mind-set in all areas of your physical world. When you have committed yourself to achieving your miracle mind-set try as much as possible to reserve you judgment and disbelief, create a real-magic zone in your mind, and affirm yourself positively.
Moreso, I also learnt that I have to cultivate an intuition, and treat those inner self very well so as to cope with the signs of time. You should try your possible best to develop the you in you. Develop a dialogue with that intuitive voice and simply note what you learn or what happens in the next few days as a result. By learning to have internal dialogue you will begin trusting your intuition and ultimately discover its loving presence and valuable contribution to your mind and subsequently to your success in life.
Finally we should do our best to affirm our intention and to make yourself healthy all the time; this will create reality and assist you in your endeavor. The spiritual being knows that all spiritual masters have talked about the importance of forgiveness. Here, it implies that living in harmony with one another is an essential ingredient of getting closer to God. For instance, Our Lord himself preached on forgiveness to his people and we should follow in his footstep. We should take note that, forgiveness sooths the soul and brings happiness to the soul at large.
3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a p practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?
Frankly speaking, the ideas in the book are worthy of commenting , in creating a better world for my self it is expedient to note that, the ideas will among other things will assist me to learn to be tolerant and courageous in the dispensation of my personal aspirations towards a successful life. Honestly, I have learnt how to adapt myself to people in any given situation at all times irrespective of their role in life.
Secondly, I have also been exposed to the new dynamics of living a successful life and also learnt to be a champion. The new dynamics of winning entails creating a better world through determination and relentless hard work.
Besides, I have learnt to be sound and alert in all my endeavors. By being patient, and steady in life, I will be able to accomplish my ambitions in life. Life we say is a stage and everybody comes in to play his part and at the right time has to leave the stage.
4. Quotes; Are there brief quotes from the book which really got your attention? If so, please list and comment on them.
“When you find the way others will find you.” Passing by on the road they will be drawn to your door. The way that one treads is so vital to other people, in the sense that man is a social being and as such he is a dependable figure.
“One of the greatest joys of becoming a spiritual being is learning about this whole new phenomenal world.” The world is full of joys and sorrows and man should exercise constrain with his fellow man as he moves around.
“Circumstances do not make a man, they reveal him.” Man can be influenced with his environment and also with the circumstances that confronts him, this in turn makes man changeable.
“In him we live and move and have our being” God is our creator who gives us life without the intervention of God man will be nowhere. God made us we are his and all that we have belongs to him. He is so merciful and compassionate, and as such we can only reciprocate this loving gesture, by loving him back.
5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagrees with and if so, why?
Personally, I am deeply touched impressed about the contents in The Real Magic. The contents are highly inspirational and thought provoking. The book is an antidote to poverty and the ideas are well understood. I must commend the author for the job well done and also thank all those who in any way made this book a huge success of letting it reach me.
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete them?
The book has done the whole job and there is virtually no unfinished exercise left to be completed.
7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous question? If so, please comment.
The book has really taken care of all areas. The book and the questions have actually taken care of everything. It must be noted that reading and applying these ideas in one’s life is very commendable. The author spent good time pointing out and teaching us what we should know in life as we move and interact with our fellow human being. The inspirational words and the moral lesson contain this book is worth appreciating. Thanks to the author of this portable but highly enriching book. It is therefore my humble appeal to make the book available in the market for people to lay hands on, read and be spiritually energized.
RATING
A. How interesting was it to read? 9
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
Giant Steps
Assessment by Sr. M. Concepta Mensah (Ghana)
1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in this book.
There are so many inspirational books that I have come across and read some, but the contents in Giant Steps are simply incomparable. The handy book speaks of itself and teaches a lot about how one should be courageous enough to face life squarely and positively. To me, it is a book with a difference in that, it teaches one to know oneself by mastering courage to face the daily viccisitius of life. It has a lot to teach in each day within the three hundred and sixty five days in the year.
The book is all about self-mastery. This, to my understanding is how one should live a worthy and well meaningful life in this world of tears. This can only be achieved through constant practice of what one believes to be right, irrespective of the various and insurmountable challenge that may arise as you take up your daily duties. As the saying goes, “it is easier said than done” This entails and demands a lot of constant practice, and a lot of sacrifices , it will even means changing your life style and adapting to new situation of life as the case may be.
Adapting to change is itself a tug of for some people. Accepting change is never, comfortable for so many people. Why? Because, change is perceived and it is said to be associated with fear and uncertainty hence, many people dislike accepting it, either they will loose what they stick on and for fear of being challenged to take up new appointments all together.
The fear of one loosing ones status is also entertained, but should that be the case? No, because Giant Steps challenges us to be bold enough to prove ourselves worthy of positive life. This can only be materialized, only we discard all negative and ill feelings supposedly to have been meted on us by someone whom we interact with. But how can you not step on somebody’s toes since man is a social being who must live and associate himself with his fellow human being. We are to learn to tolerate one another happily no matter what we may encounter from the other person, be it pleasant or otherwise, we are meant to give people benefit of doubt. Reading meaning into people’s actions could be disastrous, because we cannot justify the other person’s intention hence, Giant Steps teaches me to be tolerant at all times if only I want to live a meaningful and healthy life. We should try to live in peace daily with our fellow man and life will be bearable for me.
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 is important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.
To begin with, the idea of keeping to ones goal in life and the ability to carry it on dawned on me. What a man wants to be in future and striving to attain that, is what counts. We should know that each man is an entity and unique and we must be proud of that. What you become in the end is the ultimate goal. You are what you are, no two people are exactly the same in the way we act, one has to build upon his self image and self esteem. This can be achieved through what we do, and say what we, believe in and how we interact with people positively. We should strive to develop a positive mental attitude and face all challenges in life since with determination all things are possible.
In addition, to achieve your aim, one has to train ones mind to accept that at all times. You must train your mind and condition yourself to abide by it. It is therefore appropriate to revive your goals, aims and aspirations occasionally. You can paste them where you are sure to see them every day; you can write them in your journal or in a very conspicuous way or, in your wallet or over your bathroom mirror so you can look at them while you are shaving or putting on make ups. This will go a long way to assist you in your life.
Besides, changing focus is only way to change your emotional state. It is a quicker and more powerful way to use your physical body. It is said that every emotion you feel has a specific physiology attracted to it. In order to be happy in life it is better for man to feel good by behaving in a positive manner which is acceptable in the society. Happiness can thrive only when man live in peace with his fellow human being. It is only the, man is said to be a social being because you cannot live in isolation all by yourself.
Furthermore, nothing in life has any meaning except the meaning we give it. One of the marvels of being is our ability to fill any event with uplifting or devastating significance. Some people always live in the past and swear never to come up because of the mishap they must have gotten from somebody in the past. Giant Steps has taught me that, no matter the situation in life, I should learn to live one day at a time, notwithstanding the odds in life, as well as accepting whatever that may come to me as an opportunity to strive higher in life.
In addition, the idea of knowing what to do is not enough; you must do what you know. This suffices to say that people, and for that matter leaders should not only be passive instead they should be firm and discipline in their execution of their day to day affairs they render to their subordinates. It will serve as a model for your subordinates and also boost their performances since the amount of defects is going to be reduced drastically. Man must work assiduously to merit his status where he is placed and stop assuming responsibilities to create a better world for himself and others, since success cannot be achieved on a silver platter. For great leaders as we know are rarely realistic by other people’s standards.
More so, how to deal with adversity caught my attention, in the sense that, achievers usually see problem as transitory, while those who fail usually see even the smallest problems as everlasting. Nothing should deter us from achieving our goal. It is said that no condition is permanent hence every effort should be made to arrive at it. Besides, no problem can be considered as permanent since there is an answer to every problem under the face of the earth.
Finally, most of us are unconscious in our selection of the words we use to consistently describe our life experience. Often, we have adopted words to describe our emotions without ever thinking about the potential impact they have on us or others. Many people use words like, humiliation or depression to describe virtually any unpleasant experience. It is critical to expand our emotional vocabulary so that, the words we select may produce the emotional state we desire deserve. It is always advisable to be cautious with the choice of words or the statement we pronounce on others, since these may have repercussions on others. There is nothing in this world that has no bearing either directly or indirectly on others. That is the more reason why we must look before we leap. When this is done man will live happily with his fellow man and once there is harmony, man will find fulfillment in life.
Giant Steps has really demonstrated to me that in all our dealings with others, the bottom line is to master courage and face the challenges in life squarely and positively, by so doing, we will make the world a better place to live in.
3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you create a better world? If so, how?
The rich ideas in this book have really for fortify me and have also taught me to know when to zig and zag. Honestly Giant Steps have me the insight to live one day at a time. In addition, it has made me to be strong and firm knowing very well that, I have to try my possible best to master courage and be self effacing in my dealings with people I come in contact with in life. It is only when I am courageous enough would I be at a better position to assist others to live up to expectation, and by so doing, I will achieve my aim in life. It not going to be easy, but with determination and self will I will be able to make it to the fullest. I have to be bold in what I do and do it well to attain perfection since fortitude can win me success. In doing this I will be in the position to create a better world for my self. It has also taught me that life is what you make.
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.
“Procrastination is one of the most common ways to avoid pain” This caught my attention in the sense that, whatever I have to do in life must be carried on and not to postpone it because, I may loose that opportunity and may not have it back.
“people are not their behaviors” To me it means that human beings are changeable people are not systematic and can change as often as possible, so in dealing with people, we should try to let our yes be yes and our no be no..
“if we did the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves ”The more I prove myself capable, the, better for me. The book has taught me to stick to the very things I have to do and do it well for others too to benefit from my good deeds. By so doing, I will be achieving my aim in life.
It is true that what makes me different from other people is my experience. This is because everything you I have ever done is recorded in my conscious memory.
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?
After a thorough reading of the book, GIANT STEPS, I came to realize that, the ideas contained therein are inspirational and educative. Since I am a leader of a group, these ideas have given me some elements of good leadership skills and success attainment. The book, Gaint Steps, is based upon techniques, principles and strategies for winning life or attaining success. I personally and positively agree with all the ideas stated in the book and I congratulate the author for a work well done.
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete them?
To me the book contain few problems but have been tackled. I therefore found these exercises so helpful to other people and to the society at large. Besides, the book contains practical ideas that must be assiduously adhere to, for one to master courage to face life squarely, irrespective of all the ups and downs in life. With this, it would be said that, life is what you make it. Nobody can ever live someone’s life for him or her. As the saying goes, “as you make your bed, so you lie on”
7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous question? If so, please comment.
The contents have been taken care off in this book, the book is portable, simplified English used which made it easy to understand. With this I say CONGRATULATIONS to the author and to all who made it possible for me to get the book. However, I recommend that, many people should get to know these rich ideas too in the book.
(A) How interesting was the book? 9
(B) Would you recommend the book to a friend? 8
(C) Was the wording and printing of this book ambiguous? 9
(D) Did you learn any lesson from the book? 8
(E) Did the book contain ideas that are useful and would like to share? 9
The New Dynamics of Winning
Assessment by Sr. M. Concepta Mensah (Ghana)
1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?
There were so many ideas put together in this book, but the main idea to me is the new dynamics of winning. I believe that whether we accept it or not, you will have a moment of truth that can alter the course of your life for good all the days of your life, if only you can tell yourself the simple truth. A moment of truth can be any event good or bad, or it might be a chance to encounter another person or it could be experience in joy or in sorrow, it could be a statement or a story someone tells you, it could be at ones quiet time and it could be positive or negative.
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 is important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.
To begin with, I was personally touched by the phrase “desire plus action will be equal to motivation”. As a leader of a group, I have learnt to appreciate the little actions and contributions put in by others. I have learnt how to appreciate people and always motivating them to do better next time. This idea has contributed immensely to the success of my work.
Secondly, I have to be responsible for my own actions. I have learnt to understand that, I am an entity and unique so I should not compare myself with the other person no matter what. This does not mean that, I should live in isolation. It an undeniable fact that the happiest and for that matter successful people in life do not complete against others. The fact is that, the other person serves as a mirror for you. Instead of achieving or performing so as to impress people, you should do something tangible, excellent and beneficial.
Besides, I learnt from the book that champions are born, one of the key traits shared by champions everywhere in the world is the fundamental belief in one’s own internal value- through intrinsic motivation. Determination we say is the key to every success.
Moreover, I have come to realize that in pursuing success, one should control ones thoughts, emotions and actions and direct them to improve the quality life. It is not every person who is capable achieving success on a silver platter because we are made differently. You have to work assiduously to merit it.
This is because what I make of my life is up to me and I will be held answerable for that. The choice is mine and nobody can work it out for me. However, there are no rewards in life to anything unless you try your best to achieve something, irrespective of one age; ability to do the work is what matters.
In addition, I have come to realize that, accepting corrections through feedback can go a long way for me. Everyone on earth makes one mistake or the other, it is not a crime, and it only becomes unacceptable when we fail to acknowledge our wrong doings. It is only then can we grow to be mature and responsible people. Mistakes are painful when committed but we should remember that they are part of our human existence.
Finally, I was enthused by the statement about the idea of what makes a winner. Everyone can become a winner provided you aspire to achieve it. Nobody was born a loser everyone stands the chance of winning. Win –win should be the language of every person.
3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you create a better world? If so, how?
Honestly speaking, these ideas have already made me aspire or have put me on the verge to success, In creating a better world for my self, the aforementioned ideas will among other things help me to be successful in life, that is, these ideas will aid me to learn to be tolerant and courageous in the execution of my aspirations towards a successful life. Personally I have learnt to adjust myself in every situation no matter how painful it may be.
Secondly I have also been exposed to the new dynamics of winning a successful life and learning to be a champion in this world of ours. The new dynamics of winning entails creating a better world through determination and relentless of hard work.
Besides, the book has taught me to be sound and to stay alert in any thing I do and to do it to the fullest. This can only be achieved with total determination and concentration. In conclusion, the ideas brought to light by the author are practically thoughtful and educative and must be adhered to, as such in choosing to be a champion one should work hard for it.
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.?
Commitment is just another word for “working hard” To me success is grafted in hard work. Every success person and all leading heroes achieved t heir goals through dint of hard work. This, according to the author should be emulated by all and ’‘If you try to sit on two chairs, you will fall between them.” To me one must learn to live or do one thing at a time, doing two at the same time may not bring you satisfaction. Slow and steady you will be climbing the ladder. This shows that life is systematic and you should be steady in facing it.
“If I could get a heart surgeon in hers, I would have him open my chest, take out my heart, and put in your chest.” Always do your best in whatever you do in life to achieve your ambitions in 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?
The content in The New Dynamics of Winning are very clear and understandable. The author clearly and vividly brought out the lessons to the level of all scholars both high and low. On the whole, the book is easy to read and understand. Thanks to the author and to all who contributed in diverse ways in getting the book to me to broaden my horizon.
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader? If so, did you complete them?
To me the book to me contained few problems that were answered by the reader. However, it was noted that there were some exercises that were so helpful to me which I think could be high lighted. That to win or to be successful in whatever you are doing there is every need to always work hard to achieve your aim, no matter difficulty you may encounter 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 question? If so, place comment.
They have all been taken care off since the contents in the book are so clear in the book. However, I strongly suggest that, the book should be made available so that very many people can have access to it and also get the rich knowledge which will help them achieve their aim.
Rating
(A) How interesting was the book? 8
(B) Would you recommend the book to a friend? 9
(C) Was the wording and printing of this book ambiguous? 8
(D) Did you learn any lesson from the book? 9
(E) Did the book contain ideas that are useful and would like to share? 9