The Outward Mindset: Seeing Beyond Ourselves Paperback – June 13, 2016

I work for an umbrella organization of American-based peacebuilding organizations where we have used the Arbinger Institute's other two books to help get our own staff to work more effectively. Therefore, I pre-ordered it and read it the moment it arrived this morning.Like Arbinger's other two books, Outward Mindset makes what looks like simple points that turn out to be very difficult to actually put into practice yet which also can have tremendous payoffs.Their first two books are written largely in the form of allegories that show the reader the principles underlying their work. This one is based on real world examples from their practice AND focuses more on things the reader can do in his or her own environment.The Arbinger team is by no means the only group to talk about mindsets or personal paradigms--see the work of Carol Dweck or John Kotter for others.But, what sets this book apart is its focus on the initiatives we as individuals or our organizations can take to address issues head on by assessing the needs of the people we work with and then trying to help them reach their objectives and/or overcome their challenges. What's more, they argue that we can and must take such initiatives even if the other party does not respond in kinds at least initially. In fact, they make the case that that's just about the only constructive thing one can do.As one critical reviewer put it, this book does read like a catalogue of Arbinger's success stories. But, I know from my own work using even some of these principles, they can and do work far more often than one would think. It is fair to say that the book could have benefited from more examples in which an outward mindset did not lead to stunning payoffs, but even so, this is an important book for anyone trying to build a more peaceful planet, workplace, or home.

From the very first story in this book in chapter 1 to the final pages, I was captivated. The concept is simple, there are many problems that surround us in our professional and personal lives; and the majority of the cause we blame on others. Whether it is a problem at work, or an issue in our personal relationships it is easy to say that it is because of other peoples lack to understand. For some reason they are just not as capable as me, therefore I deserve more that they; or maybe I just lack the confidence because deep down I know I am not what I want others to think I am. Either way we separate ourselves from others and the focus becomes centered on "me". Can you imagine organizations, teams, and families where the people within them are focused just on themselves... or is that already all too familiar? Do things get done? Is there any real progress made?From Corporate settings, to family life, and even the athletic arena, our Mindset matters. Is it Inward or Outward? Great professionals don't achieve incredible results by simply changing behavior, they change their Mindset. Great athletes and teams don't win championships thinking only about themselves, their focus is on each other, their fans, and their club. Families would never be able to survive happily if those involved had an Inward Mindset, it just doesn't work. The Outward Mindset is crucial in every aspect of our life.This incredible book equipped me to actually achieve that mindset and live it better. From the first story to the last you will not be disappointed!Truly Remarkable.

The books helps to identify your person outlook on many situations in life. I felt like the presentation of materials, and especially some of the examples, clarified the message. A great read for someone looking for ways to have a more positive outlook on life.

Great book! Excellent information and the narrator was easy to listen to.The information here can change office dynamics and really improve our ability to work with our teams.As a professional counselor I use this both in relationship counseling and trainings, but also in organizational counseling, and employee employer cultivation and counseling.I highly recommend reading all of The Arbinger Institute books. Good stuff. Not the end all be all, but very valuable assets for your kit bag!

This is a follow-up book for The Anatomy of Peace, and Leadership and Self Deception, but can be quickly and efficiently used as a stand alone book. I have learned so much from this series, and my wife even says I have become a better person from studying them. It teaches us all how not only to act, but how to feel and why!

It’s easy to understand and apply this concept. I have found it very useful for my personal development and for use with my coaching clients. I highly recommend this book for anyone desiring to improve their relational and leadership knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well each of the other books produced by Arbinger. Definitely some of the best books available to help one grow and change.

The book itself isn't bad. That being said, when held up to the two predecessors, it doesn't feel as put together and polished. Whereas the other two carried us through weaving a story and learning's together, this one is more a mixed bag of small stories and info to try and drive a mindset. Most of it should already be in place from the other books, combined with something like Drive from Pink, and I think you are on a better path.