Learn how Michael Bungay-Stanier became a bestselling author and coach to top executives across the world. In this episode, you’ll discover why Michael believes in standing out and being weird to reach your goals. His unusual choices helped him thrive in many situations, from being selected as Rhodes scholar to self-publishing a book that sold over a million copies. Listen to his story, then choose which action you believe will help you stand out in your journey towards success.

Action Principles 

Pick one to do this week: 

1. Be different. Figure out what makes you unique. Then, use it to make yourself stand out from the crowd.  ACTION: Ask yourself, “How can I differentiate this just a little bit to stand out?”
2. Be more curious. The first answer that comes to mind may not be the right one. Dig deeper. ACTION: When you’re having a tough conversation, ask more questions to get a better understanding.
3. Consider forming a partnership. It can be easier to succeed when you have the right support. A successful partnership can provide the skills you lack and support to keep motivated. ACTION: Ask yourself if there’s a partnership that would help you be more successful and submit a proposal. 
4. Set clear expectations upfront. If you’re working with others, always communicate expectations at the beginning. This helps minimize misunderstandings and conflicts in the future. ACTION: Request a meeting to discuss expectations at the start of a partnership and put it in writing. 

Guest Resources

If you’d like to follow Michael Bungay-Stanier, you can subscribe to his podcast, Two Pages. If you’re interested in personal development, visit his page MBS.works. If you’re interested in corporate solutions, visit BoxofCrayons.com. You can find his book, The Coaching Habit, on Amazon.

Suggested LinkedIn Learning Courses

A Bold New Approach to Goal Setting

Unique Habits: Be Successful Your Own Way

Free Time Management Course

Thanks to Dave Crenshaw's partnership with Microsoft and LinkedIn Learning, you can get free access to his full course, Time Management Fundamentals, at DaveGift.com.

Dave Crenshaw develops productive leaders in Fortune 500 companies, universities, and organizations of every size. He has appeared in Time magazine, USA Today, FastCompany, and the BBC News. His courses on LinkedIn Learning have been viewed tens of millions of times. His five books have been published in eight languages, the most popular of which is The Myth of Multitasking—a time management bestseller. As an author, speaker, and online instructor, Dave has transformed the lives and careers of hundreds of thousands around the world. DaveCrenshaw.com