It Worked for Me

In Life and Leadership

By: Colin Powell

Narrated by: Colin Powell

New York Times Bestselling Author

Colin Powell, one of America’s most admired public figures, reveals the unique lessons that shaped his life and career

It Worked for Me is a collection of lessons and personal anecdotes that shaped four star-general and former Secretary of State Colin Powell’s legendary career in public service. At its heart are Powell’s “Thirteen Rules,”—notes he accumulated on his desk that served as the basis for the leadership presentations he delivered throughout the world.

Powell’s short-but-sweet rules such as “Get mad, then get over it” and “Share credit,” are illuminated by revealing personal stories that introduce and expand on his principles for effective leadership: conviction, hard work, and above all, respect for others. In work and life, Powell writes, “It is the human gesture that counts.”

A compelling storyteller, Powell shares parables both humorous and solemn that offer wise advice on succeeding in the workplace and beyond. “Trust your people,” he councils as he delegates presidential briefing responsibilities to two junior aides. “Do your best--someone is watching,” he advises those just starting out, recalling his own teenage summer job shipping cases of soda. Powell combines the insight he gained serving in the top ranks of the military and in four presidential administrations, as well as the lessons learned from his hardscrabble upbringing in the Bronx and his training in the ROTC. The result is a powerful portrait of a leader who was reflective, self-effacing, and grateful for the contributions of every employee, no matter how junior.

Powell’s writing--straightforward, accessible, and often very funny--will inspire, move, and surprise readers. Thoughtful and revealing, his book is a brilliant and original blueprint for leadership.

Read ( I mean listened) to it twice, it was that good!

General Colin is a great storyteller, his voice made it feel like I was listening to a wise yet iconic and witty grandpa share his anecdotes about leadership, discipline, perseverance and family values. Everything resonated with me, especially the practicality of his advice. I loved it...thank you pa!

Very good book.. I didn't want it to end.

What made the experience of listening to It Worked for Me the most enjoyable?

Hearing the wisdom of Powell's life experiences and being able to relate it to my own life, decisions, and challenges.

Have you listened to any of Colin Powell’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I haven't yet, but I just got his other book because I want more.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I wanted to but I listened to it whenever I had the opportunity.

Any additional comments?

I can't say enough about Colin Powell. He is so relatable. I really admire him as a man, a family man, a soldier, and as a politician. He is a breath of fresh air. I really wanted him to run for President because I believe our country needs him. However, I do understand why he decided not to run. This book was one of the best I have read and I will read it again because it has so many life lessons.

Great man!

I enjoy hearing life stories from someone I admire. He is just a favorite of mine, so I can't do anything, but admire his life.

Worth the Listen

Sec. of State Powell provided words of wisdom that every person can benefit from.

A Life Worth Emulating

I prefer books read by the author. If an actor reads it are they using the right emphasis and where it should be? if I read it, do I really know where the emphasis should be and what inflection to use. Yes, I prefer books read by the author. Colin Powell excelled in his presentation and that made the book that much more impactful and personable.