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The One Minute Book is written by Dr. Kenneth Blanchard and Dr.

Spencer Johnson,
and was printed in 1982 by William Morrow and Company. It is a short book perfect for
busy individuals looking for a good read particularly those who enjoy business-related,
self-help, and motivational books. The book is about a young man who is searching for
an effective manager. He wants to work for one and be one. He met a lot of managers
with different managing styles, but only a few were effective and would not share their
secrets to him. Until one day he met the One Minute Manager.

The language of the book is easy to understand, the “secrets" mentioned were practical
and they actually work. It cites medical and behavioral sciences discoveries which helps
people easily understand the complex explanations behind these simple managing
techniques. It is presented as a parable--meaning all ideas are there, but at the same
time it allows you to interpret it and apply it to your own life. This manner of presentation
is what makes the book effective.

These secrets were excellently presented by the authors. Dr. Kenneth Blanchard in an
expert in behavioral science, he focuses on organizational behavior and leadership. On
the other hand, Dr. Spencer Johnson is an expert in the field of medicine and
psychology who wants to help people experience less stress and better health through
better communication. (Add please)

The three major takeaways from the One Minute Manager are one-minute goals,
oneminute praisings, and one-minute reprimands. First, making goals clear put both
sides on one page towards one direction. Then, to reach these goals one should
constantly keep an eye. Give praise to those who do something right, these may be
small steps to reach the goal. Redirect those who make mistakes but criticize the action
and not the person. These three are actually pointing out to one direction, that is:
communication.

In order to be a good manager, one should communicate clearly with people take note
of the word "clear". First, settle on one goal that you are about to reach together. Be
clear about how every one will take part of reaching the goal. Second, affirmation
boosts not just each other's morale but it is also important to let people know that they
are doing it right. This will also clear the doubts lingering on their minds which will make
them more confident. Lastly, if someone is doing the wrong thing, it should be corrected
as soon as possible as this may avoid bigger problems in the future. This will keep
everyone on track. 

Communication is important but people need to understand that communication is


nothing if it is not clear. This is what the authors want the readers to remember, they
believe that people can experience better things through better communication. While
the authors are leaning more on scientific foundations, since we are talking about
communication these concepts can further be explained by communication theories.
Take that random friendly tap on the shoulder as an example, this can be explained
further by Expectancy Violations theory. There are more communication theories that
can be useful like the Semiotics of Communication, this ensures that intended meanings
by the manager are clearly understood by the employees.

Overall, reading the book feels like being exactly at the One Minute Manager's office.
The book will keep you wanting to know One Minute Manager more. Even it was written
decades ago, the book is even more relevant these days. With the emergence of the
work-related mental health issues, it is a reminder that it only takes a minute to be a
little kinder. It only takes a minute to be a good leader. (Please make this conclusion
stronger and more impactful please)

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