When I was young, I read How to Win Friends and Influence
People by Dale Carnegie. To be honest, I barely remember what I read now, and
I'm not sure it would work the same now that it has been almost three decades
later. Still, I can safely say I learned several things from it, mainly because
there are concrete ways to implement the strategies in realistic situations,
not merely theories.
Personally, this book is exhausting to read. The points are
repetitive, and it almost feels like, for each point, I would read multiple
permutations that say the same thing, some theories also tend to repeat in
another chapter. The book feels like a prolonged preaching without offering
real insights or solutions. True, there are many good bits of advice here and
there, but they are apparent points that barely add any skill or more profound
understanding. Sometimes, the authors are a bit out of touch. These are not the
actual quotes but the impressions I got. Do you feel stressed about bills?
Then, pay the bills. Is there an obstacle? Overcome it. Be motivated. Surround
yourself with influential people. Crank your self-esteem. Save your money.
Believe in yourself. If you do these, you will succeed.
They sound good, but what do I learn? Elaborate theories.
There are examples given in story format, which, in my opinion, is the more
effective way to do it, but most are very basic and don't inspire much; they
are also far between.
As mushy and predictable as they could sometimes be, the
Chicken Soup for the Souls series actually provides many inspiring stories and
ways to face realistic difficulties and challenges. They are good at opening
the mind to looking at things from different perspectives.
I'm very sure the author is a very wonderful and optimistic
person, and he means to help people with this book. I genuinely believe and
applaud that. Unfortunately, challenges in life are not black and white.
Theories are good (maybe), but I think most decently motivated people already
know most of those; the challenge is how to fit them into specific
circumstances, which is the area in which we need the most help. And
unfortunately, it is hard to find a good fit without adjustments, and in
reality, nicely polished advice doesn't apply to everyone.
This is my personal opinion though. It might fit into what
others are looking for.
3 out of 5
