In “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There,” Goldsmith Marshall illuminates a crucial but often overlooked aspect of personal and professional success: the need for constant self-improvement and adaptability. In today’s fast-paced world, complacency can be detrimental to one’s growth, and Marshall eloquently emphasizes the importance of shedding our bad habits and embracing change. Drawing from his extensive experience as a renowned executive coach, Marshall provides readers with invaluable insights and practical strategies to navigate the hurdles that hinder our progress. With his distinctive blend of wisdom, humor, and humility, Goldsmith Marshall delivers a powerful message that inspires individuals to evolve and thrive in their personal and professional lives.
Chapter 1: The Paradox of Success: Understanding how past achievements can become obstacles to future progress.
Chapter 1: The Paradox of Success: Understanding how past achievements can become obstacles to future progress
In this chapter of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith, the author explores the paradox of success and how past achievements can hinder future progress. Goldsmith highlights the common tendency for successful individuals to rely on strategies and behaviors that led to their initial success, even though these habits may no longer be effective in new situations.
The author emphasizes that what helped individuals reach their current level of success may not be enough to move them forward. Goldsmith introduces the concept of “transactional flaws” – specific behaviors or traits that successful people possess, but which can become obstacles to their future development.
One of the main reasons behind this paradox is that successful individuals often develop an inflated ego. They become less open to feedback, less inclined to admit mistakes, and less willing to consider others’ perspectives. Goldsmith argues that this defensive nature prevents them from recognizing the need to change and adapt in order to continue their success.
An additional element in this paradox is that success can create a sense of entitlement. Goldsmith suggests that individuals may believe they are entitled to certain benefits or deference from others, which can lead to complacency and a lack of self-awareness.
To overcome the paradox of success, Goldsmith proposes a shift in mindset. He believes individuals must remain humble, maintain a sense of curiosity, and be open to feedback and continuous learning. By acknowledging their own flaws and committing to personal growth, successful individuals can avoid becoming trapped by their past achievements and continue to progress in their professional and personal lives.
In summary, Chapter 1 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” explores the paradox of success, where past achievements can become obstacles to future progress. Marshall Goldsmith emphasizes the need for successful individuals to remain humble, open to feedback, and adaptable in order to continue their success.
Chapter 2: The Twenty Habits Holding You Back: Identifying common behaviors that hinder professional growth.
Chapter 2 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith is titled “The Twenty Habits Holding You Back: Identifying common behaviors that hinder professional growth.” In this chapter, Goldsmith discusses the various habits that can impede an individual’s progress and success in their professional life.
Goldsmith begins by emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in identifying these habits. He stresses that individuals often remain unaware of their negative behaviors and their impact on others, hindering their professional growth. The author then presents a list of twenty common habits that can hold people back from achieving their full potential.
Some of these habits include the need to win at all costs, excessive need for recognition, overuse of “no,” making destructive comments, withholding information, failing to give proper recognition, and refusing to apologize. Goldsmith explains how these habits can damage relationships, limit collaboration, and hinder personal development.
To help readers understand how these habits manifest in their own behavior, Goldsmith provides a series of self-assessment questions for each habit. He encourages readers to reflect on their responses and identify the areas where they need to improve. By acknowledging these habits and their detrimental effects, individuals can start taking steps to change their behavior and foster professional growth.
Overall, Chapter 2 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” serves as a wakeup call, urging individuals to recognize their hindering habits and make a commitment to change. This self-awareness is the first step toward building better relationships and achieving greater success in the professional sphere.
Chapter 3: Embracing Feedback: Recognizing the importance of feedback and using it as a catalyst for improvement.
Chapter 3 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith is titled “Embracing Feedback: Recognizing the Importance of Feedback and Using it as a Catalyst for Improvement.” In this chapter, Goldsmith emphasizes the significance of feedback in our personal and professional lives and how it can aid us in becoming better individuals.
Goldsmith begins by acknowledging that many successful people tend to disregard or avoid feedback due to their ego and arrogance. However, he highlights that feedback serves as a valuable tool for self-improvement and should be embraced rather than avoided. He shares various examples where he personally experienced the benefits of feedback, which helped him overcome his initial resistance.
The author also delves into the concept of “feedforward,” which involves asking for suggestions and ideas for the future rather than dwelling on past mistakes. This approach allows individuals to learn and grow, moving forward with constructive feedback that fosters improvement.
Goldsmith advises readers to actively seek feedback from multiple sources such as colleagues, mentors, subordinates, and even family members. He stresses the importance of sincere curiosity and a genuine desire to listen and learn from others. Moreover, he highlights the significance of gratitude and humility when receiving feedback, as it helps build stronger relationships and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.
The chapter concludes with the author urging readers to embrace feedback as a catalyst for personal growth and improvement. By recognizing its importance, being open to feedback, and demonstrating gratitude, individuals can break away from their current limitations and elevate themselves to new heights of success.
Chapter 4: The Power of Listening: Developing active listening skills to enhance communication and build stronger relationships.
In Chapter 4 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith, the focus is on the importance of active listening in personal and professional relationships. Goldsmith argues that effective listening is a crucial skill for building stronger connections and enhancing communication.
The author first acknowledges that many successful individuals struggle with listening because they are too busy talking and promoting their ideas. He emphasizes that active listening requires a shift in mindset towards genuinely understanding others rather than focusing solely on oneself. Goldsmith highlights that being a good listener not only helps in empathizing with others’ perspectives but also demonstrates respect and enables open dialogue.
To develop active listening skills, Goldsmith suggests specific tactics. Firstly, he advocates for paying full attention to the speaker, avoiding distractions, and maintaining eye contact. This not only deepens the conversation but also shows respect and interest in what the other person is saying. Secondly, the author encourages listeners to refrain from interrupting or interjecting with their thoughts, as it can derail the speaker’s train of thought and signal a lack of patience or interest.
Moreover, Goldsmith urges readers to practice acknowledging and appreciating different points of view, even if they disagree. This approach fosters an atmosphere of inclusivity and understanding, promoting stronger relationships. Additionally, he advises asking questions to clarify understanding and showing empathy by acknowledging the speaker’s emotions.
In conclusion, Chapter 4 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” emphasizes that active listening is a powerful skill for effective communication and building stronger relationships. By focusing on others, showing respect, and promoting understanding, individuals can enhance their professional and personal connections.
Chapter 5: Building Effective Relationships: Nurturing positive and collaborative connections with colleagues and superiors.
In Chapter 5 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith, the focus is on building effective relationships and nurturing positive and collaborative connections with colleagues and superiors. Goldsmith emphasizes that these relationships are crucial for career success, as they influence how others perceive and support us.
The chapter begins by emphasizing the importance of humility in building relationships. Goldsmith suggests that by acknowledging our own fallibilities and being open to feedback, we can foster an environment of trust and create stronger connections with others. He highlights the need to listen actively and sincerely, understanding that true communication goes beyond simply waiting for our turn to speak.
Additionally, the chapter delves into the significance of initiating positive interactions. Goldsmith explains that small gestures, such as showing appreciation and recognizing others’ efforts, can be instrumental in cultivating a supportive work environment. He also stresses the importance of taking responsibility for our own mistakes and focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
To build effective relationships, Goldsmith advises readers to identify and utilize their natural strengths. By identifying what they excel at, individuals can contribute more effectively, establish credibility, and earn others’ respect. Furthermore, he addresses the importance of networking and building connections, encouraging readers to proactively seek out opportunities to meet new people and expand their professional circle.
In summary, Chapter 5 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” provides actionable guidance on nurturing positive and collaborative relationships in the workplace. It highlights the importance of humility, active listening, initiating positive interactions, taking responsibility, leveraging strengths, and networking. By following the strategies outlined in this chapter, individuals can develop effective relationships with colleagues and superiors, ultimately enhancing their career growth and success.
Chapter 6: The Art of Influence: Mastering the skills of persuasion and influence in the workplace.
Chapter 6: The Art of Influence: Mastering the Skills of Persuasion and Influence in the Workplace, from the book “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith, focuses on the crucial skills required to influence and persuade others effectively within a workplace setting. Goldsmith emphasizes that for successful professionals who have reached high positions, the ability to influence becomes increasingly important, as they have more responsibilities and need to get things done through others.
The chapter starts by explaining that influence is not about manipulation or forcing others to do something against their will, but rather about understanding and connecting with people in a way that helps build trust and gain their cooperation. It discusses four key steps to becoming a more influential person at work: picking battles wisely, speaking like a leader, learning to listen, and persuading with questions.
Picking battles wisely means choosing the right situations and timing to assert one’s ideas or opinions, ensuring that they align with the overall goals and priorities of the organization. Goldsmith advises professionals to let go of the need to always be right and instead focus on building positive relationships.
Speaking like a leader involves communicating with confidence, clarity, and authenticity. Leaders should avoid using jargon or technical terms that may alienate their colleagues and instead convey their message in a straightforward and relatable manner.
Learning to listen is crucial for effective influence. Goldsmith highlights the importance of genuinely understanding others’ perspectives, being open to different ideas, and providing space for collaboration and input.
Finally, persuading with questions is a technique where professionals ask strategic questions to guide the conversation and lead others to think critically about the solutions. By asking thought-provoking questions and allowing others to explore ideas, individuals can influence without appearing pushy or overbearing.
Overall, this chapter emphasizes that influence is an essential skill for leaders, and by following these four steps, professionals can master the art of persuasion and have a positive impact on their workplace dynamics and outcomes.
Chapter 7: Overcoming Negative Behaviors: Addressing and eliminating destructive habits that hinder success.
Chapter 7 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith focuses on overcoming negative behaviors that hinder success. Goldsmith highlights that many successful individuals reach a peak in their careers, only to stall or decline due to self-sabotaging habits. He emphasizes that identifying and addressing these destructive behaviors is crucial for personal and professional growth.
The chapter begins with Goldsmith highlighting 20 common negative behaviors such as excessive speaking, passing judgment, refusing to express regret, and not appreciating others’ efforts. He explains how these habits can negatively affect relationships and hinder progress. Goldsmith encourages readers to reflect on their own behavior and identify which specific negative habits they possess.
To address and eliminate these negative behaviors, Goldsmith offers several strategies. He emphasizes the importance of seeking honest feedback from colleagues, subordinates, and superiors to gain insight into the impact of one’s actions. He advises individuals to suppress their urge to respond defensively and instead practice active listening and acceptance of feedback, actively seeking ways to improve.
Additionally, Goldsmith encourages readers to engage in “apology practice,” where they reflect on their actions, take responsibility for any harm caused, and genuinely apologize for their behavior. He emphasizes that acknowledging shortcomings and expressing remorse can greatly enhance personal relationships and foster a positive work environment.
In conclusion, Chapter 7 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” emphasizes the significance of identifying and addressing negative behaviors that hinder success. Goldsmith provides readers with practical techniques, such as seeking feedback and engaging in apology practice, to overcome these destructive habits and cultivate personal and professional growth.
Chapter 8: Sustaining Personal Change: Creating a plan for continuous growth and ongoing development.
Chapter 8 of “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith is titled “Sustaining Personal Change: Creating a plan for continuous growth and ongoing development.” This chapter emphasizes the importance of consistently improving oneself and creating a plan to sustain personal growth.
Goldsmith starts by discussing how the success that has brought us to our current position may not be enough to sustain us in the future. He explains that change is inevitable and the skills we possess need to continuously evolve. Goldsmith introduces the concept of “feedforward,” which involves seeking suggestions for improvement from others rather than dwelling on past mistakes.
The author explains that self-discipline is crucial in maintaining personal change. It requires consistent effort and commitment. He advises individuals to celebrate small wins along the journey to keep themselves motivated and engaged.
Goldsmith emphasizes the importance of creating a development plan that outlines specific goals, action steps, and timelines. He highlights the significance of accountability, suggesting that sharing the plan with someone trustworthy and seeking their support can greatly enhance success. Additionally, he advises periodic evaluation and adjustment of the plan based on progress and external feedback.
The author also addresses potential obstacles in sustaining personal change, such as laziness, complacency, and ego. He provides strategies to overcome these obstacles, including seeking feedback, practicing gratitude, and reminding oneself of the bigger purpose behind the change.
Overall, Chapter 8 focuses on the necessity of continuously improving oneself and creating a plan for ongoing development. It emphasizes self-discipline, accountability, and the importance of adapting to change. By following the strategies discussed in this chapter, individuals can sustain personal growth and achieve long-term success.
After Reading
In conclusion, “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith offers valuable insights into the behaviors and habits that can hold individuals back from reaching their full potential. Goldsmith emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the willingness to change in order to overcome these obstacles and continue growing. The book provides practical strategies and techniques that can be applied in both professional and personal settings, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their leadership skills and improve their relationships. Overall, Goldsmith’s book serves as a powerful reminder that success is not solely determined by past achievements, but by the continuous pursuit of personal development and self-improvement.
1. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey – This book offers practical guidance on personal and professional growth, providing valuable insights on how to achieve success by adopting the right mindset and habits.
2. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck – Dweck explores the power of mindset, emphasizing the importance of having a growth mindset rather than a fixed mindset, and how it can affect our motivation, resilience, and overall success in life.
3. “Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win” by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin – This book delves into the principles of effective leadership and teamwork, drawing from Willink and Babin’s experiences as Navy SEALs. It provides practical lessons on taking ownership, accountability, and adapting to overcome challenges.
4. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones” by James Clear – Clear shares valuable insights on how tiny habits can compound over time and lead to significant personal and professional growth. He offers practical strategies to build and maintain good habits, while breaking detrimental ones.
5. Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking” by Malcolm Gladwell – In this insightful book, Gladwell explores the power of intuitive thinking and snap judgments. It challenges our traditional notions of decision-making and offers valuable lessons on how to make better and quicker decisions in various aspects of life.
