It’s All About Who

After it sat on my shelf for at least a couple of years, I finally got around to reading through all of Mort Mandel’s book “It’s All About Who.” I received this book after graduating from a leadership program funded by the Mandel Foundation (the Neighborhood Leadership Development Program). Now having finished that book, I wish I had taken the time to read it earlier, more often, and highly recommend it be read by anyone interested in reflecting on how they can have a bigger and more positive impact in the world.

In this book, Mr. Mandel shares his perspective on the most important things that have contributed to his ability to have great success in both the for-profit, as well as not-for-profit worlds. He is quite clear that he sees very little difference in things that lead to success in those worlds. He has a way of simplifying down things that are extremely complicated to the point where anyone can understand why they are important and see a path to taking the first step.

He seamlessly shifts from talking about general concepts and beliefs to extremely specific examples of the things you must do in any organization to maintain focus and allow great people to accomplish great things. The breadth of the book is remarkable. From talking about how to interview people, how to run meetings, how to always put your values first, the importance of flawless execution, why you must believe you can accomplish great things, and the various ways discipline and organization can lead a company to a place where people can accomplish creative and amazing things.

The book sets the reader up, if you allow it, with tools and the aspiration to be better. Cheers to being whatever version of better you’d like to be in 2022.

Have you read a book recently that you know will have impacts on your life in ways you can’t yet predict? I’d love to hear if you’re willing to share the book and a few thoughts in the comments.