If you can't avoid 'em, work with 'em
““Talk to someone about themselves and they’ll listen for hours.” -- Dale Carnegie”
I’ve got a gift for you, but first…
If you’ve tried to get anything done, you’ve probably noticed a recurring “species” that keeps popping up.
They all look a little different — and certainly act different.
Sometimes they’re a joy; other times they’re irrational and erratic.
The humans.
And as much as my introverted friends want to avoid them … you can’t.
At some point, if you want to achieve anything significant, the humans will have something you want, but don’t have.
So you’ll need to learn how to work with them.
One classic every young entrepreneur hears about is How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie — it might be the most recommended book to entrepreneurs of all time.
And I’ll admit, hearing that title for the 300th time used to make my eyes roll.
But as I expanded my library — especially on human behavior — I kept seeing Carnegie’s principles validated by later studies and research.
Some skeptics label the book manipulative, but its intent is the opposite: shaping you to genuinely connect with anyone.
And whenever I apply these principles, collaboration has a better chance of being smoother and results come faster.
To keep myself on track, I review a simple “I‑statements” document each morning before working with others.
That way, those principles stay top of mind.
Here’s your gift: I’m sharing that document so you can save a copy and use it yourself.
Keep seeking,
Michael Belden
PS Meme — most people choose the other version