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The Power of Bad: How the Negativity Effect Rules Us and How We Can Rule It

In The Power of Bad: How the Negativity Effect Rules Us and How We Can Rule It, John Tierney and Roy F. Baumeister shine a light on an undeniable truth: bad experiences, bad news, and negative feedback hold far more sway over us than their positive counterparts. Drawing on research from psychology and behavioral science, the authors explain how this “negativity effect” influences our decisions, relationships, and even our leadership. But what sets this book apart is its practical approach—it doesn’t just diagnose the problem, it offers strategies to counteract it. As someone who works with leaders and teams, I found this book to be an insightful and actionable guide to reframing negativity and using it as a tool for growth rather than a roadblock.

What makes The Power of Bad compelling is how it challenges our natural bias toward overvaluing criticism and setbacks. Tierney and Baumeister demonstrate how this tendency plays out in everything from media consumption to workplace dynamics. Their “Rule of Four” (which suggests it takes four good things to outweigh one bad thing) is an especially useful framework for coaching, helping leaders balance feedback and cultivate resilience. The book is packed with examples—some surprising, others affirming—and the science behind their claims is well-explained without being overwhelming. It’s a book that not only informs but also equips readers to shift their mindset and build a more positive, productive approach to challenges.

Ultimately, this book serves as both a caution and an opportunity. The authors remind us that negativity is a powerful force, but one we can learn to manage with intentionality. As a coach, I see firsthand how unchecked negativity can derail potential, but also how a shift in perspective can unlock growth. The Power of Bad reinforces that awareness and provides a roadmap for using negativity wisely—without letting it control us. This is a must-read for leaders, coaches, and anyone looking to counterbalance the weight of bad with a stronger, more strategic focus on the good.

Author:

John Tierney and Roy F. Baumeister

Publisher:

Penguin Books

Published:

2021

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The Power of Bad: How the Negativity Effect Rules Us and How We Can Rule It

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