The Art of Asking: Top 10 Takeaways (so you don’t have to suffer through the book)

I speed-read the book The Art of Asking because a friend recommended it and unfortunately I hated it. But I did get 10 things out of the book and wanted to share so you don’t have to suffer through the book (although you might actually like her story):
1. Uncomfortably close is exactly where we need to be if we want to transform this culture of scarcity and fundamental distrust (Brene Brown-foreword).
2. There is a constant, karmic tampon circle. You give one when needed and take one when needed. I also think there is a constant, karmic beer circle.
3. Asking is, in and of itself, the fundamental building block of any relationship. Asking is an act of intimacy and trust. (while begging is a function of fear, desperation and weakness)
4. We all want to be seen, acknowledged and accepted.
5. Sometimes you have to let people walk away.
6. Feel thankful for those who stop and listen (relates to Amanda Palmer’s art) instead of wasting energy on resenting those who pass by.
7. Asking is, at its core, a collaboration. Those who can ask without shame are viewing themselves in collaboration with the world rather than in competition with the world.
8. Asking for help with gratitude says: we have the power to help each other.
9. Honest communication engenders mutual respect, and that mutual respect makes ASKERS out of beggars.
10. The art of asking can be learned, studied and perfected.

There. I saved you $15.99 and a few hours of your time. If you really want to read the book, you can get my copy out of our free lending library in our front yard. It comes complete with highlights of the 10 items above.

I think I may be onto something here. Suggestions for the next book I summarize into a Top 10 Takeaways post?