26: Tame the Advice Monster with Michael Bungay Stanier

Edgar Schein's "Helping" delves into the complexities of helping relationships, emphasizing the importance of understanding the dynamics between helper and helpee. Schein highlights the power imbalances inherent in such interactions and offers strategies for creating more reciprocal and effective partnerships. The book explores various contexts, from personal relationships to organizational settings, providing practical insights for fostering trust and mutual growth. It emphasizes the significance of humble inquiry and the need for helpers to approach interactions with genuine curiosity and a willingness to learn. Ultimately, "Helping" provides a framework for building stronger, more supportive relationships in all aspects of life.

In 'Quiet', Susan Cain presents a comprehensive argument that modern Western culture misunderstands and undervalues the traits and capabilities of introverted people. She charts the rise of the 'Extrovert Ideal' and explores how it permeates various aspects of society, including workplaces, schools, and social interactions. Cain draws on research from biology, psychology, neuroscience, and evolution to demonstrate that introversion is common, normal, and valuable. The book offers advice for introverts on functioning in an extrovert-dominated culture and advocates for changes to support and recognize the contributions of introverts. It also distinguishes between introversion, shyness, and anti-social behavior, and highlights the unique strengths of introverts, such as deep thinking, persistence, and excellent negotiation skills.

Michael Bungay Stanier's "Do More Great Work" helps readers identify and focus on tasks that truly matter. The book categorizes work into three types: great, good, and bad, encouraging readers to eliminate bad work and increase great work. Stanier provides practical exercises and frameworks to help readers clarify their priorities and improve their productivity. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding one's strengths and passions to achieve greater fulfillment and success. It's a valuable guide for individuals and organizations seeking to improve their work-life balance and achieve meaningful results.

In this book, Edgar H. Schein and Peter Schein define Humble Inquiry as 'the fine art of drawing someone out, of asking questions to which you do not know the answer, of building a relationship based on curiosity and interest in the other person. ' The authors explore how Humble Inquiry differs from other kinds of inquiry, provide examples of its application in various settings, and discuss how to overcome cultural, organizational, and psychological barriers to its practice. The book emphasizes the need for open and trusting communication in today's complex, interconnected world, and offers practical advice on developing the attitude and skills necessary for Humble Inquiry.

In 'Pivot: The Only Move That Matters Is Your Next One', Jenny Blake introduces the Pivot Method, a four-stage process (Plant, Scan, Pilot, and Launch) designed to help individuals navigate career changes effectively. The book is tailored for anyone seeking a new career direction, considering a second career, or looking to use their talents in new ways. Blake draws from her experience at Google and her own career transitions to provide practical advice, case studies, and interactive exercises to help readers manage the risks associated with change and find new opportunities. The book emphasizes the importance of doubling down on existing strengths, identifying new skills to develop, running small experiments, and taking smart risks to launch in a new direction.