Success isn’t static—what worked to get you to your current level may not be enough to propel you forward. In What Got You Here Won’t Get You There, Marshall Goldsmith identifies the habits that limit growth and provides strategies to overcome them. Read my detailed book summary to uncover practical tools to maximize your success! Perfect for leaders, students, and professionals seeking personal and professional excellence.
Summary:
Marshall Goldsmith’s What Got You Here Won’t Get You There is a profound exploration of how professionals, particularly leaders, can identify and overcome behaviors that limit their success. Goldsmith, a renowned executive coach, explains that the very traits and habits that helped individuals achieve their current success may hinder them from reaching the next level. The book focuses on refining interpersonal and behavioral skills to ensure continued growth and impact.
Goldsmith outlines 20 self-sabotaging habits that successful individuals often exhibit, such as the need to win at all costs, making destructive comments, failing to give proper recognition, and resisting change. The book doesn’t just identify these habits but provides practical tools to eliminate them, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, feedback, and the commitment to change.
Key takeaways include:
- The Importance of Feedback: Honest and constructive feedback is essential for identifying blind spots in behavior.
- Letting Go of Ego: Success requires humility and the willingness to listen and adapt.
- Focusing on Others: Shifting from self-centered behaviors to fostering collaboration and respect.
- Commitment to Change: Sustainable growth requires discipline and consistent effort over time.
Goldsmith also emphasizes the idea that success is not solely an individual journey; it’s deeply tied to how we interact with and influence others. By improving interpersonal skills, leaders can inspire trust, foster strong relationships, and drive team performance.
Application to My Work:
As an organizational leader with over 15 years of experience, I found this book to be particularly relevant for my journey as a director of performance excellence, business coach, and professor. Goldsmith’s insights resonate with my belief that leadership is a continuous process of learning and evolving. His emphasis on self-awareness and feedback aligns with my approach as a strengths-based coach, where I encourage individuals to leverage their talents while addressing growth areas.
One of the most valuable takeaways for me was the focus on eliminating self-limiting habits. I recognize the importance of regularly reflecting on my behaviors to ensure they align with the goals of my team and organization. Goldsmith’s principles have reinforced my commitment to fostering collaboration and creating environments where others can thrive.
As a professor and coach, I see immense value in sharing these lessons with my students and clients. Whether you’re a rising professional or an established leader, this book provides actionable strategies to ensure continued growth and success.
To maximize your success, start by identifying the habits that may be holding you back. Reflect on your behaviors, seek honest feedback, and commit to making meaningful changes. Use Goldsmith’s principles to refine your leadership style, improve your interpersonal skills, and unlock your full potential. Remember, success is a journey, and what got you here won’t get you there.
APA Reference:
Goldsmith, M. (2007). What got you here won’t get you there: How successful people become even more successful. Hyperion.