I just finished reading “Tribes” by Seth Godin the other day. Short, to the point, challenging, and thought-provoking. I could call it a manifesto or a call to leadership for all. Above all, I call it an awesome read; a book you must read if you have a brain and an ounce of individualism.
To tie into my political rant from last night, there’s a section toward the end that really speaks to me about belief. Here’s what Godin writes:
Belief
People don’t believe what you tell them.
They rarely believe what you show them.
They always believe what they tell themselves.
What leaders do: they give people stories they can tell themselves. Stories about the future and about change.
I wrote last night that politicians and the media don’t give us a straight answer; maybe it’s because they’re afraid to. They’re afraid of what we might think of their actions (or lack thereof). I’m not sure that’s it. I attribute it to a lack of faith in our intelligence; in our capacity to accept change and challenges to our steadfast (somehow) beliefs.
Part of the reason I love this book, and that quote above in particular, is that Godin goes right after that notion that people don’t believe in themselves and therefore shouldn’t be challenged to do so. That true leaders will get the best out of people because they know how to get people to believe.
I know I’m rambling a bit now; I’m really burned out from work, so the words are more difficult in coming.
Anyway, if you want a fast read that will change the way you view leadership and human organization entirely, get this book.
Buy the book now on Amazon.com
Also, check out Seth’s blog.
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Scott –
I read that book on a 2 hour flight a few months ago. I’m reading it now. Great stuff. Short, to the point, & actionable. Love it for all the same reasons you do.
dj
p.s. I want to subscribe to get your fresh posts via an email alert (ala Feedburner). Hook it up, dude.