Author

Al Switzler summaries

2 summaries on Durar

Al Switzler is a co-author of practical books on how people talk, behave and change, written with colleagues including Kerry Patterson and Joseph Grenny, and their work is worth reading because it turns research on real people into steps you can use the same week. Start with Crucial Conversations, which shows how to stay calm, honest and respectful when stakes are high and opinions differ, then move to Change Anything, which explains why willpower alone rarely breaks a stubborn habit and how reshaping the personal, social and environmental forces around you makes progress last. Managers and team leaders, young professionals finding their voice at work, and anyone handling delicate family discussions will find these ideas especially useful in a region where respect, relationships and saving face matter so much.

Change Anything

Change stubborn habits by reshaping the forces around you, breaking harmful patterns, and building an environment that makes progress last.

15 min

Listen to the intro

1:32

What is Change Anything about?

Change Anything (2011) explains why willpower alone rarely changes bad habits, and how to succeed by changing the forces around you. Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler describe six sources of influence, personal, social, and environmental, that shape behaviour, and show how to use them to improve careers, health, finances, and relationships. The book is based on research with thousands of people.

Who should read Change Anything?

Anyone who keeps failing to break a bad habit
People who rely on willpower but keep slipping back
Professionals aiming to improve their health, finances or career

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Crucial Conversations

Navigate high-stakes conversations with calm, honesty, and respect to build trust, resolve conflict, and create meaningful progress.

14 min

Listen to the intro

1:22

What is Crucial Conversations about?

Crucial Conversations (2002) teaches how to handle high-stakes conversations where opinions differ and emotions run strong. Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler show how to stay focused on what you really want, keep the conversation safe, share your views honestly, and listen to others so that dialogue leads to better decisions. The book is widely used in workplaces and families around the world.

Who should read Crucial Conversations?

Managers who must address tough issues with their teams
Anyone who avoids difficult conversations at work or home
Parents and spouses seeking calmer, more honest family discussions

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About Al Switzler

Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler are the team behind VitalSmarts, now Crucial Learning, a company that trains people in communication and behaviour change. Together they have written several bestselling books on workplace communication and influence. Their works include Crucial Conversations, Influencer, and Change Anything.

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