Today in the widely-read financial blog TheStreet.com, Marc Kramer wrote a piece titled “10 Business Books to Get You Back on Track Again,” and the #4 book on the list was – you guessed it – The Go-Giver. Here’s what Marc wrote about the book:
You can read this entire book in one flight from Philadelphia to Miami. Most people think about how they can manipulate a person or situation to benefit them. The real key to success, according to the authors, which I entirely agree with, is helping others. A similar book to Tuesdays with Morrie, by Mitch Albom, which provides wisdom and insight on how to be more successful.
A few hours later, the prestigious business bookseller 800-CEO-Read posted a notice on their blog including The Go-Giver on their “short list” for their 2008 Business Book Awards in the Fables & Parables category. Here’s what they wrote:
Putting another person’s needs before yours is the main principle in this business parable. Burg and Mann offer five “laws” to follow in order to become a real “go-giver”: Value, Compensation, Influence, Authenticity and Receptivity. Understanding how to be a go-giver may just be the best kept secret that everyone should know about in the business world … and maybe even the whole world.
And finally, to round out the day, we learned that our little book showed up as a featured book on the Sarasota-based business book readers club DearReader.com, hosted by Suzanne Beecher.
Just finished your wonderful book. I thought I’d share my thoughts with my readers/clients at my blog. You’re welcome to pay us a visit at:
https://chebellafiori.blogspot.com/2008/12/buy-this-book.html
Thanks again
Thanks, Chavo — I responded with a little comment on your blog. I so appreciate your comments … and please thank your sister-in-law for us as well!
In today’s economical downturn we must look to the facts that ultimately caused this. One being that of selfishness. We are all “out for ourselves.” We all looked for the best mortgage that fit our need at the time, we all were forced to keep up with the Joneses and therefore exceeded our means of living, and we all are paying for it now.
The Go-Giver puts life into perspective and teaches us that without looking at the big picture, we’re not only short-changing ourselves but short-changing society as a whole. Top executives must force themselves to look for ways to improve others’ lives, ask themselves “how can I make their day better” and only then learn what life is truly about. Big money, big houses, and top social ranking is only missing the mark and hurting everyone as a whole.
The Go-Giver gives simple talk to implement this into our daily lives quickly and easily. It truly is a best read for everyone, top executives to front line leaders to those just barely making it.
There is a saying that “God always gives you what you need at His right time.” Well, I must say that reading this book is definitely a confirmation of just that.
After experiencing a situation in which I felt that I had given all that I could give, and because of certain circumstances and personal heartbreak, it was not reciprocated … therefore I decided I would not give anymore. I had told myself that the world and people do not care about givers any more. When you give, give, and give more, and it is not reciprocated, your heart shuts down.
However after reading the book, I realized that I was keeping score with the “world” — which is an unrealistic opponent! I have since been renewed, and just when you feel that all hope is gone … re-read The Go-Giver!
Dear Deenen,
Your note brings tears to my eyes. I can’t think of a better reason on the planet that we should have written this book, than that it would have spoken to you.
Warm regards,
John
Seva Cafe summarizes the Go-Giver’s principle. It’s not in what we get, but it’s in what we give that we find true success and happiness. Often times, we see people that seem to have it all. They may have beautiful things but they lack peace of mind. The Go-Giver brings me back to the basics of God’s principle and formula for success in our lives, “give and it shall be given unto you.” Something happens when we give without expecting anything in return. We feel peace and joy that surpasses all understanding.
John –
Thank you for following your heart and not just listening but truly “hearing” the cries of the broken heart giver. You will bless more people with the information in this book than you could have ever imagined. May God continue to use you for his greatness!
Deenen
Interesting perspective; regarding “The Law of Receptivity.” I have always felt that one gives for the sake of giving without regard for reciprocity.
In the book “The Go-Giver” the following is stated; “the key to effective giving is to stay open to receiving.” I still believe that the key to effective giving is giving, but will review this perspective.
In my opinion, when one gives without thought of receiving, our experience is greater and our openness to receiving God’s gift has now reached a new level.
I have enjoyed the book and thank you for taking the time to write it.
Hi Diineen,
Just back from a trip and I saw your “back and forth” with John. Good for you for being open-minded to “receive” 🙂 John’s thoughts.
Keep being a giver, my friend, because that is you; it is your true authentic self.
And, be open to receiving. Not “emotionally-attached” to it, but open to it. It will come to you exactly when and how it is supposed to.
Carlos, that also has something to do with what we mean about the key to effective giving being staying open to receiving. In fact, you are absolutely right; we give for the sake of giving. As it says right in the book, “giving is not a strategy; it’s a way of life.” At the same time, being open to receving keeps the “flow going.” So, it’s not that one gives with reciprocity in mind; one gives, understanding that as one does so, he or she will receive as a natural effect.
As Pindar taught Joe, it’s important to both breathe in and breath out. Give because you love adding value to people’s lives. Receive because you are worthy of it and are allowing others the gift of giving.
And, those who are able to receive abundance (in all areas, not just, but including, financially) are then able to continue to give so much more.
Thank you, everyone, for your comments, and for giving us the gifts of yourselves and your participation in The Go-Giver community.
With Gratitude,
Bob