The Power of Being Yourself - by Joe Plumeri (Paperback)

About the Book

The philanthropist and former CEO of Willis Group Holdings and Citibank North America shares lessons on being true to your emotions and using them to guide you.

Book Synopsis

Everyone imagines top CEOs as larger-than-life figures who do things no one else could. But deep down, a good business leader is an everyman who combines vision and high energy with the ability to connect with and learn from all types of people. In The Power of Being Yourself, renowned business leader Joe Plumeri offers simple yet profound guidance on how to stay positive, motivate yourself and others, and achieve success in your life and work.

Plumeri's Game Plan for Success features eight key principles, from Everyone Has the Same Plumbing, in which his fish-out-of-water experience as CEO and chairman of a London-based company reveals how cultural differences can be overcome as people everywhere respond to authenticity, to You Gotta Have Purpose!, which explores the transformative ingredient that leads to tangible progress. And because this book is meant to be revisited and consulted whenever you need fresh inspiration or practical advice, The Power of Being Yourself also features a final section -- Applying the Principles -- imparting further guidance and checklists.

By sharing his own experiences--and candidly exploring high-stakes business decisions along with many personal triumphs and tragedies--Plumeri explains that the secret to success is found not in boardroom strategy or corporate philosophy, but rather in allowing passion, purpose, and true emotions to inform your approach and guide your relationships. His book is a timely wake-up call in a world where heartless electronic communication too often takes precedence over genuine connection. Plumeri reveals that if we can live in the moment and be honest and true in our emotions, the effect carries over into how we live all facets of our lives.

Review Quotes

"After you finish this book, I am sure that you will agree with me that the country desperately needs a dose of Joe Plumeri. His passion, honesty, and sense of purpose flows through these pages, which are filled with life lessons that extend from his childhood to his rise to the top of the corporate world. Plumeri points out that the key to being a good public speaker or a successful leader is having the courage and self-awareness to be yourself--an important insight for all of us."--Bill Bradley, former US Senator

"Joe Plumeri is truly one of a kind. In today's day and age, his message is an important one. This is the story of finding your passion, following your heart, but most of all: being yourself."--Jeb Bush, former Governor of Florida

"Joe Plumeri's book is delightful. It is courageous in its honesty and profound in reminding us of what is most important in life. His references to Jack [Jackie Robinson] are heartening to me and further the message of brotherhood. I especially hope young people read it--to be inspired and to receive the guidance that so many of them are seeking in today's fast-paced world."--Rachel Robinson, Founder, Jackie Robinson Foundation

About the Author

Joe Plumeri is vice chairman of the First Data Board of Directors and served as CEO of Willis Group, Citibank North America, and Primerica. He also serves on the boards of the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, Mount Sinai Medical Center, and the Jackie Robinson Foundation, among others. In 2011, the College of William & Mary awarded Plumeri an Honorary Doctorate of Public Service, and his speech to graduates was recognized as one of the best commencement addresses ever by National Public Radio. He lives in New York City with his wife, Susan.

Learn more at JoePlumeri.com