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3.86 AVERAGE
3.86 AVERAGE
informative
inspiring
There is no doubt that Colin Powell worked hard to get to the top, I certainly respect that aspect of this man. That being said, I felt that this book held nothing more than 13 bits of folksy wisdom that could be found on coasters and funny billboards at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. restaurants.
There were many times while reading this book that I could feel Colin Powell's ego jump out of the book and smack me in the face. For being of humble origins this man has certainly lost the important quality of being humble.
Overall, it's an incredibly short/easy read, but for those who are looking for a book about leadership I would highly emphasize looking elsewhere.
There were many times while reading this book that I could feel Colin Powell's ego jump out of the book and smack me in the face. For being of humble origins this man has certainly lost the important quality of being humble.
Overall, it's an incredibly short/easy read, but for those who are looking for a book about leadership I would highly emphasize looking elsewhere.
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
The rules that Powell lists should be applied to everyday life, this was a great book that I think everyone should read and not just people in leadership rolls.
What a great life, and a great man. I haven't read his first book, but this one is filled with great advice on how to approach life and relationships, and entertaining personal stories to go along with them. It got a little repetitive from time to time, but the lessons and insights were worth it. Highly recommend.
Disappointed. This felt like so many leadership/self help books by charismatic successful people. A third or later book pushed out with little new - pasted together to fulfill a book contract. It wasn’t awful- it just wasn’t good.
informative
inspiring
reflective
A little like having the General over for the weekend
This is an easy read that has little bits of wisdom about leadership in any walk of life. The chapters are short and each with a little lesson or observation about life backed up by the man's experience. It's not a great work of literature, the tone is very conversational and the lessons might sound a bit preachy to some, but the stories are all, if not at the very least fun or inspirational, very snackable. It's what I imagine it might be like to sit down and chat with him for a while.
This is an easy read that has little bits of wisdom about leadership in any walk of life. The chapters are short and each with a little lesson or observation about life backed up by the man's experience. It's not a great work of literature, the tone is very conversational and the lessons might sound a bit preachy to some, but the stories are all, if not at the very least fun or inspirational, very snackable. It's what I imagine it might be like to sit down and chat with him for a while.
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
It Worked for Me is a thought-provoking and inspiring memoir that weaves together life lessons, leadership principles, and personal anecdotes from Colin Powell’s distinguished career. While I didn’t always agree with his political perspectives, I found his story captivating and his reflections on leadership and integrity deeply valuable.
One of the key takeaways from the book is Powell’s “13 Rules,” a practical and insightful guide for navigating challenges and staying true to one’s values. These rules emphasize the importance of preparation, resilience, and the courage to make tough decisions. His advice to “check your ego at the door” and “avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it” speaks volumes about the humility and self-awareness required for effective leadership.
Another powerful theme is Powell’s commitment to mentorship and building strong teams. He underscores the significance of empowering others, fostering trust, and prioritizing the well-being of your team. His stories about working with people from diverse backgrounds and overcoming organizational challenges highlight his ability to lead with empathy and adaptability.
The final section of the book, focusing on Powell’s educational journey and his dedication to education, left a profound impression on me. He recounts how education played a pivotal role in shaping his path and shares his ongoing commitment to ensuring that future generations have access to quality education. His advocacy for lifelong learning and the transformative power of knowledge is both inspiring and practical.
While the book occasionally delves into political and military topics that may not resonate with everyone, its overarching message about integrity, perseverance, and service to others transcends these contexts. Powell’s ability to draw universal lessons from his unique experiences makes this a compelling read for anyone seeking inspiration in their personal or professional life.
One of the key takeaways from the book is Powell’s “13 Rules,” a practical and insightful guide for navigating challenges and staying true to one’s values. These rules emphasize the importance of preparation, resilience, and the courage to make tough decisions. His advice to “check your ego at the door” and “avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it” speaks volumes about the humility and self-awareness required for effective leadership.
Another powerful theme is Powell’s commitment to mentorship and building strong teams. He underscores the significance of empowering others, fostering trust, and prioritizing the well-being of your team. His stories about working with people from diverse backgrounds and overcoming organizational challenges highlight his ability to lead with empathy and adaptability.
The final section of the book, focusing on Powell’s educational journey and his dedication to education, left a profound impression on me. He recounts how education played a pivotal role in shaping his path and shares his ongoing commitment to ensuring that future generations have access to quality education. His advocacy for lifelong learning and the transformative power of knowledge is both inspiring and practical.
While the book occasionally delves into political and military topics that may not resonate with everyone, its overarching message about integrity, perseverance, and service to others transcends these contexts. Powell’s ability to draw universal lessons from his unique experiences makes this a compelling read for anyone seeking inspiration in their personal or professional life.