Quick Ideas 70 to 72 First know that your re- Assignment active nature is driven by fear Read ideas 128, 131, and and self-doubt--particularly 141. Then read 77 through 151. low self-confidence. How- You need them all to truly trans- ever, you can start to get it form your style to one that is back on track with three much more effective. emergency techniques found in ideas 128, 131, and 141. These three must be used in combination, by (1) keep- ing your thoughts in check (Idea 128), (2) keeping your tongue in check (Idea 131), and (3) learning to ask questions to understand (Idea 141). This last step helps you keep egg off your face--some- thing reactive folks tend to wear a lot. Epilogue You can nip a reactive outburst in the bud by holding your thoughts and tongue in check--in that order--and by asking questions to learn more. Tackle the Intimidator If you must win at all costs at even the first sign of disagree- ment, will resort to making personal attacks, slinging mud, and calling people out in front of others, then you've stopped at the right place. The first thing you need to know is that people are avoiding you. They fear you, so you're not getting honest answers, good information, or acceptance. And that makes you ineffective in the workplace and other parts of your life. 72 89