Book Byte #310 "The Charisma Myth" by Olivia Fox Cabane
How Anyone Can Master the Art and Science of Personal Magnetism
📣 Curious Quotes from the Author
“One of the main reasons we’re so affected by our negative thoughts is that we think our mind has an accurate grasp on reality, and that its conclusions are generally valid. This, however, is a fallacy. Our mind’s view of reality can be, and often is, completely distorted.”
“Being charismatic does not depend on how much time you have but on how fully present you are in each interaction.”
“Resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.”
“the most effective thing you can do for your career is to get comfortable being uncomfortable.”
“Whatever your mind believes, your body will manifest.”
“The key questions are: Which mental state would be most useful in this situation? And which version of reality would help you get there?”
“IN THE TORRID London summer of 1886, William Gladstone was up against Benjamin Disraeli for the post of prime minister of the United Kingdom. This was the Victorian era, so whoever won was going to rule half the world. In the very last week before the election, both men happened to take the same young woman out to dinner. Naturally, the press asked her what impressions the rivals had made. She said, “After dining with Mr. Gladstone, I thought he was the cleverest person in England. But after dining with Mr. Disraeli, I thought I was the cleverest person in England.” Guess who won the election? It was the man who made others feel intelligent, impressive, and fascinating: Benjamin Disraeli.”
“To know others is knowledge. To know oneself is wisdom.”
“Parkinson’s Law: “Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.”
📚 Cognition of the Book’s Big Idea
Everyone has the capacity to be charismatic; we only need to adopt the proper frame of mind to exhibit the appropriate body language and practice until it comes naturally to us. There are many different types of charisma, so choose the one that best fits the circumstance and your personality.
Additionally, don't worry if you encounter psychological and physical challenges when cultivating charm; these are common experiences for successful people. To overcome these challenges, just follow the three steps: neutralize, de-stigmatize, and de-dramatize.