Everyday Greatness: Principles Count

Inspirational, compelling, a great read for our times: these are some of the ways people describe “Everyday Greatness.” I think it's more than that. It offers a glimpse, through a series of stories and quotes of people who live by their principles. Today, I think we need these insights as much, or more than ever. If everyone worked on making their lives meaningful through the steps outlined in this book, the world would be a much better place.

I was delighted by the stories of Abraham Lincoln. He was unquestionably one of our greatest leaders. He, as we do today faced almost insurmountable problems, but his principles were strongly engraved in his heart. He acted on them. I wish I thought more people today acted on their principles. I found it extremely refreshing to read story after story about average people who have faced crises with fortitude because of their belief in doing the right thing.

For most of us, this is not a book to read straight through, like a novel. This is a book to savor. It's a book to look into for inspiration when times are tough. I cherish my copy. I will keep it to give me inspiration through all the difficult times of life.

A Too Simple Game Plan for Selling to the Sexes

Contrary to some commentators, women and men are different. Elizabeth Pace presents a succinct account of how and why. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the research. The studies cited clearly point out the differences and how brain chemistry is responsible. Elizabeth takes her own advice and laces the scientific with entertaining examples from her own experience.

However, I thought the book stumbled in the second half, telling you how to sell to the sexes. The advice turned out to be very similar. Yes, women rely more on feelings and men more on action, but how do you reach the in between population. After the entertaining first section, the section on how to use the research felt flat.

I think the book is overly simple when it comes to addressing the practical aspects of marketing. We can certainly see how men and women are difference and even think of examples, but male and female come in many shades. I can think of women who would be turned off by relying on feelings and men who wouldn't. I know women in management who are much more action oriented than their male counterparts. Therefore, while the book is easy and fun to read, I don't think it offers a valid plan for selling to the sexes across the broad range of personality.

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