November 2010 Archives

Drive: Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
by Dan Pink

Summary: In knowledge worker industries, extrinsic motivations such as monetary rewards can reduce what people can accomplish.  Instead, we need to consider three simple things that truly motivate people: autonomy, mastery, and purpose.

Intended Audience: Those who lead others; anyone who want to get more out of their careers

Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard
by Chip Heath and Dan Heath

Summary: Change is hard because there is conflict between the rational side of your mind that understands why a change is necessary and the emotional side of your mind that is comfortable with the current situation. There are paths to resolve this conflict and allow change to occur.

Intended Audience: Agents of change; people seeking change but are unable to do so; those concerned about people facing corporate changes