Reading someone else’s diary is not normally the type of behaviour I would usually encourage, but there’s always an exception to the rule. This is definitely the exception.
I read his diary, and without trying to sound… extra, it might already be one of the best things I will pick up this year.
I started reading his diary for two reasons.
At the moment, I only truly listen to three podcasts. Most podcasts catch my attention for a few weeks, and then I drift away. But the podcast called The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett is one of the three that has naturally held my attention. The podcast coupled with the positive feedback that his book has been receiving made me want to take a look, and low and behold, I read his diary!
33 Flawless Laws
The book is divided into 33 Laws of Business and Life, and it is exactly as advertised.
By the time I got to the second law, I was hooked. The Diary of a CEO is filled with a wealth of wisdom. Steven Bartlett’s book covers everything from communication to conflict management to marketing and even business culture just to name just a few topics.
The wisdom shared in the book is done in such a way that it’s easy to apply. I’ve even started to apply some of the communication tips in my everyday life, particularly the information shared about conflict management. Discussions with people who hold opposing views are important. Without that, we become a closed society that can only listen to their own voice.
Furthermore, it’s impossible to go through life without having some kind of conflict in one shape or form and learning how to navigate these situations without being hostile is an instrument I’d like to have in my toolbox.
Failure Is the Norm
As a huge sports fan (that might be an understatement) I’m completely familiar with the need for failure. The road to achievement always sees failure.
However, the way that the chapter about failure is unpacked invokes the reader to acknowledge the truth about failure. Failure isn’t good. It’s necessary. Steven Bartlett shares how it is important for the growth of every company, but the principle can be easily adapted to any part of one’s life. So, if you see me failing at something this year, just know that’s not the end of the story. It’s just part of the lesson I’m learning.
Likeability 10/10
Like every book in its genre, The Diary of a CEO contains anecdotes and data from psychological studies as topics are discussed, but there’s a difference with how it’s done.
Just like in the manner in which he shares information on his podcast, Steven Bartlett’s tone doesn’t have a superior air to it. He sounds like he’s sharing information with someone on his level which makes it a joy to read. Even when he shares his credentials with the reader, it seems like he is qualifying himself as a partner in the reader’s journey. This makes him a likeable author and someone who has written a book that many will finish instead of just breezing through a few chapters.
Having read the book, it’s clear Steven Bartlett has met a vast array of people throughout his life. His ability to learn from all of these individuals and then share a lot of this information with the reader makes the book an invaluable resource, and it was worth every penny.
I read his diary! What are you going to do about it? Are you going to step into the CEO’s diary and see the world from his eyes? I really hope you do.
Title: I Read His Diary! What Are You Going to Do About It?
Author: Leonie Thomas
Date Published: 31.1.2024
Leonie Thomas 