Claude Steiner

Perhaps the most paradigm-shifting book I have come across. Provided me with a zoomed-out look at the societal influences which have shaped me and everyone around me to live our lives in the ways that we do. It reaffirmed for me that my (sometimes blind) struggles for freedom from societal constraints and expectations are in fact the only path toward a happy life. This book also led me to look forward to parenting. It wasn't until I read this book that I realized how vast an influence show more parents truly have on their children. It is important that I re-read this book several times in my life (certainly before raising children) in order that I can live happily and raise my children to be free. show less

Within the emotional intelligence topic, this book focuses on the intrapersonal dimensions. The writing is weak and the content banal. The overall message feels aligned to a very self-centered pyschology. I was happy to consider the concepts with an open mind and glad to learn that emotional intelligence can be learned. But the incessant theme of "strokes" became tiresome, and a quick scan of the rest of the last half seemed to indicate more of the same. I elected not to finish, which is rare.

Very useful self-teaching book about emotional literacy, fighting our Critical Parent (or its funny synonym "The Pig Parent"), about empathy, selflessness etc.
Actually, it is possible for anyone to adopt some basic rules explained in the book. The only thing I see as a problem, at least in my society, is the fact that these skills and behavior should be trained in larger groups (at work, in your house, with your children....) and the book has to be read by all who participate (more common show more in less conservative societies). It takes a lot of time, but it is worth trying. show less

WOW. I regret not reading this book earlier in life. Just, read it. You won't regret it. You may question some things, other will make you think, but you won't regret it.