Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success

This is one of the greatest, unparalleled books I have ever read because of its rich content and its unconventional way of addressing how people become successful. The book mentions three groups of people-- the takers, givers, and matchers-- who you communicate with on a daily basis. The book mentions why givers, who give to this world more than they take, are at the two ends of spectrum. They are the best losers and the best winners. Whoever in between are takers and matchers, who take more than they give and help if you help.

Most of the people in this world are matchers. Anyway, the book exemplifies the givers by mentioning Abraham Lincoln as one of the greatest people who gave to this world more than he took. His meaningful contributions had helped a plethora of people in the U.S. not only as a U.S. president but also as someone who had helped everyone around him. Assisting other people without waiting for a return can surprisingly exceed the return itself. This is said because many people do not realize how much stamina, communication skills, relationships, and other important components can be indirectly gained to help you in achieving your future goals.

Another significant method some people utilize, the book mentions, is to give up the power to the audience by showing one or two of your weaknesses. The method is called powerless communication. For example, spilling coffee on yourself as an instructor in a classroom will make you more likable because people now can relate to you. People will start to empathize. Here, you show people not only your strengths, but also weaknesses. Another example is when someone, who stutters, wants to work as a salesperson or a lawyer. These two positions require great communication skills. With this speech disorder, one will be more likable and will show courage, two of which are characteristic of successful people.

In summary, this book is undoubtedly amazing as it shows how giving back to you community, including your family, school, and needy people, can have a large return on investment.