Review: Patrick Lencioni – The 6 Types of Working Genius (S)

The 6 Types of Working Genius
Patrick Lencioni

“The 6 Types of Working Genius is the fastest way to help people identify the type of work that brings them joy and energy, and avoid work that leads to frustration and burnout. Beyond the personal discovery and instant relief that Working Genius provides, the model also gives teams a remarkably simple and practical framework for tapping into one another’s natural gifts, which increases productivity and reduces unnecessary judgment. In classic Lencioni fashion, Pat brings his model to life in a page-turning fable that is as relatable as it is compelling. He tells the story of Bull Brooks, an entrepreneur, husband, and father who sets out to solve his own frustration at work and stumbles into a new way of thinking that changes the way he sees his work, his team, and even his marriage.”

I love this author and his books. I was looking forward to this one and it did not disappoint! The overall take away of the book is to do what you love. The author doesn’t particularly mean based on your work industry but rather the type of task you are doing. I definitely do agree with this! I loved the fable story that the author tells the book through, and definitely found it funny at times. However, as I have read a lot of his other books, it has a similar narrative that it follows which you can predict after you have read a few of his books.
Most people have two areas where they’re in the zone and get energy when they do it (genius), two areas where they get frustrated and are miserable when they do it (frustrations), and two areas in the middle they’re good at, but don’t really love to do (competencies).

I highly recommend that you check this book out! 4.5 stars.

Quick Reviews of Non-Fiction Business Books #6 (S)

Creative Selection: Inside Apple’s Design Process During the Golden Age of Steve Jobs – Ken Kocienda

This book turned out to be different from my initial expectations, yet it was a satisfying read. It doesn’t provide a comprehensive overview of Apple’s entire history and product line, and it’s not a conventional business theory book either. It goes in depth with the author’s experience in his areas of product development only. It has very little of Steve Jobs. So if you are looking for a book on him, this is not it. I really enjoyed it though. It was well written, and in depth on the product creation. It’s very much written like a story. It had me laughing at some points and I found it interesting. There were a few points that I lost interest in it though. The author being a software engineer does get a bit technical at times, but does a great job of drawing familiar parallels to software principles.

I would enthusiastically recommend this book to anyone curious about the intricate process of product development at Apple. It offers a delightful and enlightening reading experience, making it a solid 4 star recommendation.

Hello Gen Z: Engaging the Generation of Post-Millennials – Claire Madden

Gen Z, born between 1995 and 2009, currently aged 29 to 15, I picked up this book wanting to know more about Gen Z, particularly in the workforce. I understand that at the time of writing, in 2017, many Gen Z individuals were teenagers, but there were also adults in the workforce, and Gen Z would be increasingly entering the workforce as the years went on. The author could have focused more on the future. I felt that I had high hopes to learn a lot from the book, but in the end, it let me down. It was filled with quotes from Gen Z, which is fine, but it was inundated with repetitive quotes all saying the same thing. There was a lot of “this is how it is right now,” but no strategies for dealing with Gen Z in the workforce or in general. Some of it focused on understanding Gen Z, which is necessary in the book, but not to the extreme extent of what we are already observing from them. It didn’t provide explanations. I felt it took a long time to get into the book, and even then, it lacked depth. I’ve read other books on different generations, and they had more depth, even for the era in which they were written. I felt like the terms, slang, and things labeled as Gen Z were more characteristic of Gen Y, especially since I am Gen Y. I’m unsure if Gen Z is just not that different, or if I’m not as old as I thought I was! I recommend this for generations X and above. 3 stars.

Conscious Leadership: Reveal your potential. Inspire excellence. – Neil Seligman

I don’t believe this book is poor, but it didn’t quite resonate with me either. This book presents itself as a guide for leaders, but it’s really for anyone interested in understanding themselves better and making better choices. It offers examples, exercises, and suggestions for further reading on each topic. It’s short and covers a lot about self-development and becoming a better person. Overall, it’s a pretty good book. I don’t really have any faults with it. I think it just wasn’t for me. 3 stars.

Review: Alison Cochrun – The Charm Offensive

The Charm Offensive
Alison Cochrun

Dev Deshpande believes in fairy tales and crafts them on a reality dating show. His own love life is a bit of a nightmare, but he can prepare his contestants for a happily ever after like no one else. His latest Prince Charming is a bit of a problem though – Charlie Winshaw doesn’t believe in true love, doesn’t want to love and is on the show to prove he’s normal. What does the happy ending look like for Dev and Charlie?

Charlie, you’re completely oblivious, and I love it! However, I really think you overestimated your chances of surviving on reality TV. Have you ever seen any of it? Are people really that oblivious? Dev, buddy, you weren’t doing yourself any favours either, and sometimes you really were a bit of an ass, even if you apologised for it later.

How on earth did Dev’s parents keep that a secret? Why didn’t they tell him? Yes, relationships should not fill holes in your soul. But, nothing wrong with having another human to share your life with. The depiction of mental illness was quite sensitive and it was nice to have something in adults (not young adults). Some aspects didn’t quite sit right for me, but I was willing to let it pass.

I’m not sure I really get the title of this novel, but ok! Maybe because Prince Charming is a thing? But why is it offensive? Is it offensive as in it smells, or that people are battling things out? Maybe the latter. I’m also not sure why I jumped into reading this novel, except that I find it hard to resist a gay love story with sufficient queer and diverse supporting characters! A novel set on a TV show where the contestants are supposed to find ‘true love’ in 3 months isn’t new (see Here for the right reasons and Can I steal you for a second).

I’m not going to reread this novel in the same way I do Helen Hoang’s romances, but I give it bonus points for addressing the importance of therapy. Having read several Alison Cochrun novels in a row, it’s getting a bit same-old, but that’s a me problem. 4 stars from me.

Review: Alison Cochrun – Here We Go Again

Here We Go Again
Alison Cochrun

The favourite teacher of two childhood friends turned enemies needs a death road trip. Joe forces Rosemary and Logan together to roadtrip the USA in the ‘Gay Mobile’ for one last ride before they go their separate ways.

Woah. The character development in this novel is exceptional. I’m actually ok with both of them acting like teenagers initially because there’s a lot of background to their behaviour. Logan goes from being an ass to being a bit less of an ass, and Rosemary goes from being tortured to being a little less tortured. Also, the final scenes of this novel almost made me cry. Joe buddy! I love you!

Some of the repeated descriptions didn’t do it for me though, “Her mouth puckered into a cat’s butthole” – um, no. Not attractive, at all. Also, what’s with all the swearing and weird names for things? I could do with a bit less swearing, particularly given I’m pretty sure high-school teachers can’t swear that much?

It’s Worth the Wait but with a roadtrip added! It’s so good to see these ‘mainstream’ publishers publishing queer novels! The variety is amazing. To all those complaining humans who say there’s too many queer/woke novels, remember that there are years and years of past publishing with cis-hetero protagonists. Just because something is new and hyped doesn’t mean you have to read it!

There are two main things (apart from the main narrative) that are emphasised in these novels: 1. the importance of therapy and 2. the flexibility and fluidity of sexuality labels. Now, why would those two things be so important? Well, in Australia, 74.5% of LGBTIQA*+ individuals had experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life compared with 41.7% of heterosexual people. There’s nothing wrong with having therapy regularly even if you are coping. There’s definitely a shortage of qualified psychologists though.

I get write what you know, but why does it seem like queer people in novels are artistic/creative types? In Alison’s novels we have teachers, authors, artists, film-makers, a (failed) ‘tech-bro’ and a baker who makes amazing creative pastries! My other favourite queer author, Karelia Stetz-Waters, there are a similar collection of creative types plus some accountants (that run art galleries) and marketting/business types (who have a specilised sound skill-set). I’m probably oversimplifying it, but can’t I have some romance with ‘boring’ professions? Let me know if I’m overlooking some.

Having now devoured all three of Alison Cochrun’s novels in the last week, everything by T. Kingfisher and the new Ali Hazelwood, I think I’m ready for something that isn’t a romance again. I don’t know what I feel like yet though!

Simon & Schuster | 3 July 2024 | AU$24.99 | paperback

Review: Josh Kaufman – The Personal MBA (S)

The Personal MBA
A World-Class Business Education in a Single Volume
Josh Kaufman

“Getting an MBA is an expensive choice-one almost impossible to justify regardless of the state of the economy. Even the elite schools like Harvard and Wharton offer outdated, assembly-line programs that teach you more about PowerPoint presentations and unnecessary financial models than what it takes to run a real business. You can get better results (and save hundreds of thousands of dollars) by skipping B-school altogether. Josh Kaufman founded PersonalMBA.com as an alternative to the business school boondoggle. His blog has introduced hundreds of thousands of readers to the best business books and most powerful business concepts of all time.”

This book lives up to its title by effectively condensing an MBA into a single volume. It provides a concise overview of many essential business topics. While it doesn’t delve deeply into each subject, it serves as an excellent starting point if you want to read just one business book on MBA concepts. This book is a valuable guide for beginners and equips you with the necessary information and tools to further your business education.

It’s also a great reference for future use by helping you refresh your memory and pointing you towards resources for more detailed information. It offers a high-level summary of many important topics in both business and personal development.

Did Kaufman convince me I don’t need an MBA? I was already skeptical about getting one before reading the book, so it reinforced my existing opinion. This book helps you understand not only how businesses operate but also how people work, and it offers insights into increasing your productivity.

“The Personal MBA” is the perfect read for anyone starting in business that is too busy to dedicate hours at a time to reading.

Review – Lauren Roberts – Powerless

Powerless
Lauren Roberts

Paedyn Gray is not only a thief, she’s also an Ordinary. Having no gift is a fate punishable with death and banishment of any hiding her. Paedyn has been trained as a psychic to cover her Ordinary-ness but also has a dab hand at fighting. She usually tries to stay out of trouble but unwittingly saves one of the Princes and finds herself battling for her life in the Purging Trials…

Sooo, it’s kind of like Hunger Games but a little less predictable because it’s not always obvious who needs to be the survivor, and who is going to win. I enjoyed the various powers that Kai got to play with, and I think more could have been done with it. Also, as if you’d fall for the illusionist twice…

The romance scenes were completely cringe-worthy. I found myself skipping over them and hoping I wasn’t missing important story details. Of course, #enemiestolovers trope is a thing, but can’t we have a book or two that is just epic battles? My dissatisfaction with this type of thing is entirely the fault of Fourth Wing. At least there’s no sex?

I don’t think this book is remarkable enough for me to recommend to other readers, but it’s also not terrible. Maybe when you’ve read as many books as I have, it’s all too predictable? That sounds very full of myself, but I’ve read A LOT of books recently that I just haven’t reviewed. This could be a book for you if you enjoy #friendstolovers, #lovetriangle and #awkwardlove. Just don’t go looking for any deeper meaning.

Review: Frank Figliuzzi – The FBI Way (S)

The FBI Way
Inside the Bureau’s Code of Excellence
Frank Figliuzzi

“The FBI’s former head of counterintelligence reveals the Bureau’s field-tested playbook for unlocking individual and organizational excellence, illustrated through dramatic stories from his own storied career. Frank Figliuzzi was the “Keeper of the Code,” appointed the FBI’s Chief Inspector by then-Director Robert Mueller. Charged with overseeing sensitive internal inquiries, shooting reviews, and performance audits, he ensured each employee met the Bureau’s exacting standards of performance, integrity, and conduct. Now, drawing on his distinguished career, Figliuzzi reveals how the Bureau achieves its extraordinary standard of excellence—from the training of new recruits in “The FBI Way” to the Bureau’s rigorous maintenance of its standards up and down the organization. Unafraid to identify FBI execs who erred, he cites them as the exceptions that prove the rule.”

This book offers an insightful look into the inner workings of the FBI, narrated through the lens of an experienced agent. It demonstrates how the following principles are fundamental not only to FBI operations but also to broader applications in business and personal life. The author delves into the Bureau’s adherence to the seven C’s:

  • Code
  • Conservancy
  • Clarity
  • Consequences
  • Compassion
  • Credibility
  • Consistency

Despite initially questioning its relevance to my interests, I found the book to be a compelling exploration of leadership and ethical conduct within a high-stakes environment. Through storytelling and practical examples the author provides readers with a deeper understanding of the FBI’s culture of excellence.

The book prompts reflection on individual and organizational ethics, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their moral compass or improve their company’s framework.

In a world where integrity is paramount, the author’s work serves as a beacon of inspiration, offering practical insights for navigating complex ethical dilemmas. I wholeheartedly recommend “The FBI Way” to professionals eager to cultivate a culture of integrity and excellence within their organizations. 3.5 stars.

Review: Brandon Webb & John David Mann – Mastering Fear (S)

Mastering Fear
A Navy SEAL’s Guide
Brandon Webb and John David Mann

“From New York Times bestselling author and former Navy SEAL Brandon Webb comes a simple yet powerful five-step guide to transforming your life by making your fears work for you instead of against you. As a Navy SEAL, he learned how to manage the natural impulse to panic in the face of terrifying situations. As media CEO and national television commentator, he has learned how to apply those same skills in civilian life. Drawing on his experiences in combat and business, along with colorful anecdotes from his vast network of super-achiever friends from astronauts to billionaires, Webb shows how people from all walks of life can stretch and transcend their boundaries and learn to use their fears as fuel to achieve more than they ever thought possible.”

I approached this book with a sense of uncertainty, unsure whether it would be exceptionally good or disappointingly bad. To my delight, it turned out to be a truly commendable read, deserving a solid four stars. I was concerned that it might be overly centered on Navy SEAL anecdotes at the expense of practical business applications, but I found the abundance of such stories surprisingly captivating. Despite my initial reservations, the author successfully bridged the gap between the SEAL experiences and their relevance to the business world to create a compelling narrative.

What set this book apart for me was its departure from the typical business book formula. While it offered unique perspectives, it still delivered substantial knowledge and valuable takeaways. Although not compelling enough for a re-read and thus falling short of a five-star rating, the practice points at the end of each chapter serving as both summaries and exercises added a practical dimension.

The author’s concept of mastering fear, as expounded in the book, revolves around leveraging fear, steering internal dialogues, and focusing on positive outcomes rather than potential pitfalls. The advice to filter out distractions, dismiss unwarranted concerns, and recognize that fear is genuine while safety is an illusion was particularly resonant. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone facing tough decisions or seeking personal mastery over their fears.

Review: Cal Turner Jr – My Father’s Business (S)

My Father’s Business
The Small-Town Values That Built Dollar General into a Billion-Dollar Company
Cal Turner Jr

“Longtime Dollar General CEO Cal Turner, Jr. shares his extraordinary life as heir to the company founded by his father, Cal Turner, Sr., and his grandfather, a dirt farmer turned Depression-era entrepreneur. Cal’s narrative is at its heart a father-son story, from his childhood in Scottsville, Kentucky, where business and family were one, to the triumph of reaching the Fortune 300 — at the cost of risking that very father/son relationship. Cal shares how the small-town values with which he was raised helped him guide Dollar General from family enterprise to national powerhouse.”

The readers are treated to a comprehensive exploration of the company’s history. The narrative seamlessly weaves together the personal stories of Cal Turner Senior and Cal Turner Jr, offering a delightful blend of humor and insightful anecdotes from the company’s journey.

The book sheds light on the founding fathers of Dollar General, individuals rooted in small-town values, emphasizing hard work, honesty, and community spirit. The fundamental principles of the company—providing everyday items at the lowest prices and cherishing the core customer base—are consistently underscored.

For those who appreciate authentic tales of real people navigating the business world, presented in a straightforward manner, this book is a captivating read. While the narrative occasionally lapses into repetition and unnecessary details, the overall experience is engaging and informative.

The genuine charm lies in the depiction of the Turners’ lives and the humorous accounts of pivotal events. The book offers a compelling glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of maintaining retail stores, making it a worthwhile read for anyone intrigued by the intricacies of business operations.

I particularly enjoyed the insights into Cal Jr. and his family, and the book’s focus on the economic aspects of running a business. I recommend “My Father’s Business” to aspiring entrepreneurs, and those fascinated by the inner workings of retail establishments. Despite minor flaws, the book successfully captures the essence of Dollar General’s success and the values that propelled it to become a billion-dollar company. The book is well written and a good read, 4 stars.

Review: Alexis Ohanian – Without Their Permission (S)

Without Their Permission
The Story of Reddit and a Blueprint for How to Change the World
Alexis Ohanian

“As Alexis Ohanian learned when he helped to co-found the immensely popular reddit.com, the internet is the most powerful and democratic tool for disseminating information in human history. And when that power is harnessed to create new communities, technologies, businesses or charities, the results can be absolutely stunning. In this book, Alexis will share his ideas, tips and even his own doodles about harnessing the power of the web for good, and along the way, he will share his philosophy with young entrepreneurs all over the globe.”

I absolutely loved reading this book. It hooked me right from the start and kept me engaged throughout. Alexis writes just like I do, saying what’s on his mind and giving us a raw account of events. I have to admit, he does go a bit overboard with the use of brackets (but hey, I’m guilty of that too!)

The book wasn’t exactly what I expected, though. I thought it would be a straightforward chronological story of how Reddit came to be. Instead, the story of Reddit is brief and not presented in order. But once I got past that initial surprise and understood the book’s style, it was all good. Alexis takes us on a journey beyond Reddit, sharing his experiences with other companies and providing what he calls “the blueprint” for creating your own successful internet startup. So, if you’re looking for insights and inspiration in the world of internet startups, this book has got you covered.

I should mention that this book is very focused on internet startups, so it might not be as applicable to other types of businesses. Don’t let that discourage you. It’s still a fascinating and entertaining read. I genuinely enjoyed it from start to finish. I’d give it a solid 4 stars.