Dale Carnegie's Influence..

The various books written by Dale Carnegie and his lectures had influenced a lot of people for two generations in the past and many are still being influenced, since he started writing and giving lectures, in the beginning of 20^th century. “How to win friends and influence people” first published in 1936 and “How to stop worrying and start living” first published in 1948 were the best sellers in the market, penned by the author. Both of these books got reprinted several times, because of the overwhelming demand by the public.

I had come across these two books in my early thirties during my regular visits to book shops at Mumbai streets and at the erstwhile “Strand Book Stall” at the Fort area of Mumbai, where my office was also situated. I happened to work for more than a decade in the same area and had the opportunity to purchase a few books, especially these two.

I liked reading the book “How to stop worrying and start living” several times, because every time one reads this book, become free from all tensions, worries and will reach to a different level altogether. Frequent readings of the book had helped me to overcome unwanted worries and to refresh my memories.

The other book is written by Dale Carnegie, keeping in mind the sales and marketing personnel, as also for grooming the future leaders.

The methodology adopted by the author in explaining the causes of worry which humans have been undergoing for years is very unique and supported by practical examples. He has suggested various remedies for solving day-to-day problems in life. His writings are still relevant today.

He advocated mainly three ideas to reduce stress level and to start living without any worries..

Firstly, he says, for every problem, there will be a solution. Rather than worrying about the actual problem, one should think of a probable solution to it and should apply it to improve the current situation.

Secondly, he says ninety-nine percent of worries/fears, one carries, are only self-creation and imaginary in nature. The likelihood of such happenings is largely remote, in real-life situations and hence one need not worry at all.

Thirdly, he says, if no solution is seen for the problem and you are sure that the particular event will likely happen which causes fear/anxiety/worry, let it happen, in due course of time. By worrying about such a situation is ridiculous, since it is beyond your control and will not change the situation, in any way.

The real-life examples quoted in the book and the inclusion of authenticated letters from the persons who suffered much from worries and finally come out of some precarious situations, have made the book, more trustworthy and useful for many.

It is a fact that it has saved many lives so far and will save many in the future also, if many more people read the book and follow rules, suggested.

I have to admit that my reading the above-mentioned book, has changed my outlook on life.