The world feels like a tough place to be right now. If you spend five minutes online, there is so much bad news that going to sit in the closet in the dark instead of facing things seems like the best option. But unfortunately, you will need an eventual potty break and snacks, so we might as well just figure out how to get along better from the jump. People-ing can be hard, especially for introverts like me. Lucky for us, these authors shared their thoughts and ideas about some of the ways we can better relate to our fellow neighbors and friends (and non-friends).

When someone is mean to you, either online or IRL, it’s so easy just to cut them out and forget about them. And that’s partially why the world is in the mess it’s in. But maybe there is a better way. Instead of calling someone out when they do something that we disagree with or think is stupid, perhaps we could try this author’s idea of calling in. She says you can treat the person with love and get more explanation before just flying off the handle. I liked what she had to say, and even found myself pondering how to call someone in when they did something dangerous in traffic. Lots of good food for thought here.

This is a good read for those of us who are control freaks. What does trying to control everything get you? Nothing. Well, maybe anxiety and depression, but that’s no fun. Instead when your friends leave you out, or your husband leaves his dirty clothes laying around, or someone cuts you off in traffic - again - let them. The only person you can control is yourself and how you react to something. It’s freeing to know that I don’t have to wreck my day, just because someone else does something I don’t agree with. I have to say that most of these ideas aren’t new. However, it was nice that someone finally codified them in a clear and effective manner. I like Mel’s writing style and if you have issues in this area, definitely check this out.
 

Where my perfectionists at? (The perfectionist in me is requiring that yes, I did leave out the helping verb are on purpose. Technically it should read “where are my perfectionists located?” but can we agree that is less fun?) If you suffer from any level of perfectionism - recovered or not - this is the book for you. There were several places where it felt like the author was in my head. It was creepy and helpful at the same time. Trying to be perfect all the time (or trying not to be perfect all the time) is an ongoing process and this book provided excellent guidance in how to not let perfectionism rule my life.
 

As someone who would say she doesn’t get along with anybody before she would say she could get along with anyone, I thought it might be a good idea for me to check this one out. Docs E and G, as they call themselves, have created five collaboration types that show not only how you work with other people, but the best way to approach and deal with all five types. That way if you have employees or family members or friends, you can know why they are thinking what they are thinking. I have two complaints - 1) this book was a little more business oriented than I was hoping and 2) I got a little tired of the sports metaphors. But, if you are a business person who loves sports - this is definitely your read. Overall, though, I thought this was good. I would say that now I know how to get along with at least 2 or 3 more people. (Not types, just people. Don’t judge - it’s a process.)

If you are anything like me, you are definitely tired of being tired. And anxious. And stressed out. Am I right? This is a great book to help us get back on track and let some things go. Delony hits it on the head when he reminds us that life is full of choices. Even if we can’t choose everything that happens to us, we do have control over how we react. We need to put effort into eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and yes - building friendships and relationships. My favorite quote was from Delony’s friend, Pastor Ian Simkins - “Whatever you think your hate is accomplishing, love can do better.” We need to get back to just being kind and not being so worried about what everyone online thinks.

Ok, so those are my picks to help win friends and influence people. Pick out one or two (or all) let’s get started getting this world back on track.

Happy Getting Along…
:) Amanda