University of Minnesota - UMN Executive Leadership Insights
The Four Elements of Success
Book

The Four Elements of Success

A Simple Personality Profile that will Transform Your Team

Laurie Beth Jones
Thomas Nelson, 2005
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Editorial Rating

6

Qualities

  • Analytical
  • Innovative
  • Well Structured

Recommendation

Life coach Laurie Beth Jones highlights the differences among individual work styles and categorizes them as elements: Earth, Wind, Fire and Water. She explains that if you pay attention to the natural “elemental” ways that people respond to work demands, you can create a more positive and, thus, more productive work environment. The reasoning (perhaps more than the metaphor) makes sense, and certainly beats always asking square pegs to work in round holes. Jones’ approach is a little simplistic but that may help make it easy to use. She also brings in warm references to Jesus and Christianity. getAbstract suggests that this book could be a helpful starting place for understanding work styles and improving team dynamics.

Summary

Elemental Attributes

Individual work styles follow certain “elemental” attributes. You can understand and categorize your employees according to four elements – earth, water, wind and fire – and use this information to match people to appropriate tasks and team mates.

Earth people are solid, dependable, nurturing and “grounded,” but also may be methodical and plodding. Often they are inflexible and can’t handle unpredictability. Water types, like the element, have clarity, flexibility and a refreshing viewpoint, but they dislike conflict so much they will go overboard to avoid it. They do not respond well when asked to hurry. Wind workers are innovative, upbeat and energetic, but easily distracted. Fire employees offer illumination, energy and inspiration, but tend to disorderliness and unpredictable reactions. They aren’t detail-oriented. Sometimes personalities combine two elements.

People usually recognize their own elements in action. Earths are detail-oriented, Fires are forceful and fearless, Winds are visionary and Waters are people pleasers – all important factors to consider, for instance, if you are trying to assemble an optimal team. For best results...

About the Author

Laurie Beth Jones is the bestselling author of Jesus CEO; Jesus, Life Coach; Jesus in Blue Jeans, Teach Your Team to Fish and The Path. She teaches team building as an international business consultant.

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